What is white gold?
White gold is a precious alloy made of pure yellow gold mixed with whitening metals such as palladium or silver, often plated with rhodium to maximize its brilliance.
How is white gold colored?
Unlike yellow gold, which exists naturally, this metal is the result of human work. As pure gold is too soft to be worked alone, it is combined with other metals to form a resistant alloy. In the case of white gold, silver-toned metals are added to attenuate the initial yellow color.
However, the raw alloy often retains a slight grayish or yellowish tint. To achieve that highly sought-after bright, mirror-like finish, the jewelry undergoes a final finishing step: rhodium plating. This thin layer of rare metal protects the surface and gives it its characteristic whiteness, ideal for showcasing a lab-grown diamond or a colored gemstone.
Why choose this metal over silver or platinum?
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish these metals with the naked eye, but their physical properties and durability differ greatly. White gold represents an excellent compromise between the lightness of silver and the density of platinum.
- Resistance: White gold is much harder than sterling silver, which tends to deform and oxidize over time.
- Lustre: Its appearance is brighter and cooler than that of platinum.
- Malleability: It is perfectly suited for creating complex designs, such as an engagement ring.
What is the ecological impact of this choice?
Opting for this precious metal today allows for a reconciliation of aesthetics and environmental responsibility. In a sustainable jewelry approach, it's possible to create magnificent pieces without extracting new material.
The use of recycled metals significantly reduces the carbon footprint of your jewelry while maintaining the same quality and intrinsic value as newly extracted gold. You thus benefit from the advantages of recycled gold: increased traceability and respected ethics, without compromising the beauty of the final piece.
Frequently asked questions about white gold
Yes, it is normal for the rhodium plating to fade with friction, revealing the slightly warmer tone of the alloy underneath. A simple maintenance in the workshop can restore its original shine.
Absolutely, unlike some contemporary metals like steel or titanium, this precious metal is very malleable. Gold jewelry is therefore perfectly adjustable over the years.
Modern white gold usually uses hypoallergenic whitening agents. However, older or lower-quality alloys containing nickel can sometimes cause reactions in sensitive individuals.