A Guide to white gold: Composition, origin, and style

What is white gold made of?

White gold composition is an alloy, or mix, of pure 24-karat gold and at least one other element, like nickel or palladium, copper, silver, and zinc. White gold is typically sold as 10-karat, 14-karat, and 18-karat gold; these numbers distinguish how much pure gold is alloyed. This blend is what gives white gold its steely, white color.

History of white gold

The intriguing origins of white gold, though shrouded in a bit of mystery, take us back to the early 20th century. According to the esteemed Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the journey of white gold began with a patent filed in 1913, marking a significant milestone in the world of precious metals.

During World War II, when platinum was declared a strategic metal by the U.S. government and restricted from civilian applications, white gold emerged as the favored alternative, particularly for diamond jewelry designed for everyday wear. This pivotal moment in history propelled white gold into the spotlight, solidifying its position as a versatile and elegant choice in the realm of fine jewelry.

Pros of Choosing White Gold from ELGA:

1. Timeless Elegance: White gold serves as a timeless and elegant choice for jewelry, especially when paired with diamonds. It enhances the beauty of colorless stones, allowing them to take center stage in any piece.

2. Versatile Setting: The neutral color of white gold complements various gemstones, making it a versatile choice for different jewelry designs. It ensures that the metal doesn't overshadow the brilliance of the stones.

3. Durability with Style: While not the most robust metal, white gold strikes a balance between durability and style. It is more scratch- and dent-resistant than yellow gold, making it well-suited for everyday wear while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.

4. Everyday Wearability: White gold is practical for everyday pieces, capable of withstanding normal wear and tear. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking both elegance and durability in their daily accessories.

5. Nickel-Safe Assurance: Elegance Jewels prioritizes customer well-being by using nickel-safe alloys that meet the highest industry standards. This ensures that individuals with nickel allergies can confidently choose our white gold jewelry without compromising on style or comfort.

Nickel Alloy Concerns: White gold is traditionally alloyed with nickel, which may raise concerns for those with nickel allergies. However, Elegance Jewels addresses this by using nickel-safe alloys, assuring customers of hypoallergenic options.

In summary, ELGA offers white gold jewelry that combines timeless elegance with practical wearability. While not the strongest metal, our commitment to quality includes nickel-safe alloys, providing customers with both style and peace of mind.

Rhodium plating and white gold

Preserving the Pristine Brilliance of ELGA  White Gold:

1. Rhodium Plating for Lasting Luster: At ELGA we recognize the significance of maintaining the original brilliance of our white gold jewelry. To achieve this, we offer the option of rhodium plating for the stone's setting. Rhodium, a precious metal from the platinum family, not only enhances durability but also provides scratch resistance, tarnish resistance, and an enduring shine.

2. Platinum-Class Preciousness: Remarkably, rhodium surpasses gold in preciousness as a member of the platinum family. This elevates the quality of our jewelry, ensuring that our customers invest in a premium material that radiates elegance and stands the test of time.

3. Resistant to Tarnish and Scratches: Our rhodium plating not only imparts a dazzling shine but also forms a protective layer that resists tarnishing and scratching. This meticulous approach ensures that the pristine appearance of our white gold jewelry is maintained over an extended period.

Considerations:

1. Periodic Replating: Depending on the frequency of wear and adherence to care instructions, pieces with rhodium plating may require periodic replating every couple of years. This consideration is communicated transparently to our customers, allowing them to make informed decisions about the ongoing care of their jewelry.

2. Rhodium Plating Not Offered by ELGA: While ELGA is dedicated to the quality and durability of our white gold jewelry, it's important to note that rhodium plating is not a service currently provided directly by us. However, customers have the convenience of consulting almost any local jeweler for this service, typically available for a modest fee.

In summary, ELGA enhances the lasting brilliance of our white gold jewelry through the option of rhodium plating, underscoring our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. While this specific service is not offered by ELGA, customers can easily access it through local jewelers for ongoing care and maintenance.

Caring for white gold

Beyond taking your jewelry to be re-rhodium plated, the care for white gold doesn’t differ from any other type of gold. If you’re looking for jewelry care tips, reference our guide to jewelry care and cleaning.

How to style white gold jewelry

Begin your journey by embracing the brilliance of white gold or white diamonds as the cornerstone, and let your style evolve with the addition of opulent gold tones or the allure of semi-precious stones. Whether crafting a bold statement or creating a delicate ensemble, our jewelry allows you to express yourself effortlessly.

For those with cool undertones, our white gold jewelry complements your skin tone beautifully. However, there's no need to overanalyze let your self-expression guide you. At ELGA we believe in creating jewelry that reflects your unique style and personality.

What is the difference between white gold and platinum?

Opting for white gold over platinum not only exudes elegance but also aligns with a more budget-conscious approach. While platinum stands as one of the most luxurious and costly choices in the jewelry realm, our white gold offerings provide a sophisticated and financially savvy alternative.

The sturdiness of platinum surpasses that of white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold, offering unparalleled durability. However, this robustness comes with an increase in weight, resulting in a more substantial feel. Platinum's density, while advantageous for longevity, can pose challenges in the crafting process, contributing to higher production costs.

At ELGA, we take pride in our meticulous craftsmanship. Our white gold pieces receive a radiant finish through rhodium plating, ensuring a dazzling appearance. In contrast to white gold, platinum can occasionally exhibit a grayish hue to the discerning eye. While platinum settings for our jewelry are not currently part of our collection, rest assured that, like the brilliance of our jewels, the future for ELGA holds exciting possibilities. Stay tuned for what's to come.

White gold pricing

At ELGA, we believe in empowering you to choose the perfect metal that not only aligns with your style but also harmonizes seamlessly with your collection and complements your unique complexion. Whether it's the timeless allure of white gold, the romantic charm of rose gold, or the classic warmth of yellow gold, our pricing remains comparable when karat weight is the same.

Noteworthy is our commitment to transparency in pricing. Clicking into the product details on our shopping page provides you with a clear breakdown, ensuring you understand precisely how much you're investing in both the diamond and the setting.

Delve into the world of white gold with confidence. And if you're ready to explore other shades of gold, why not indulge in our guide to the enchanting allure of rose gold? Elevate your jewelry expertise with our guide, unraveling the distinctions between gold vermeil, gold-plated, and gold-filled pieces. Your journey to exquisite jewelry with ELGA is a journey into sophistication, style, and transparency. Explore, discover, and adorn yourself in elegance.