Platinum Vs. White Gold: What’s the Difference?

Engagement rings and wedding bands are not only brilliant symbols of your marriage, but they’re also elegant pieces of statement jewelry that you and your partner can show off to the world. When it comes to choosing a ring that will personify the love you and your spouse share and represent your personal style, careful thought and consideration should be placed on the design you choose. After all, you plan to wear this ring for the rest of your life, so it’s important that it’s something you love.

As far as color goes, know that selecting a metal hue is a largely personal choice, but there are some practical considerations to keep in mind. Depending on your lifestyle, certain metals will be a better fit for you than others. If you know you prefer the look of white metals, there are two popular options to consider for both engagement rings and wedding bands: white gold and platinum. Interested in learning which one is the right choice for you? We asked a few jewelry experts to explain everything you need to know.

Ahead, we outline the differences between platinum and white gold. Learn about these two beautiful white metals before you start shopping for rings—in our opinions, going in with a decision on metal preference will make the process that much more seamless.

What Is Platinum?

Platinum is a precious metal that is commonly known for its luster, stunning appearance, and superior durability. According to Samira Baraki, CEO and founder of MIRACO, it is also “a naturally white metal that doesn’t require any mixtures to create its color.”

What Is White Gold?

Baraki explains that “white gold is known as an alloy,” which means that gold (a yellow metal) and at least one other white metal—like palladium, nickel, zinc, copper, or silver—are mixed together to create white gold’s hue. White gold is shiny, but it’s less dull than other metals; it’s a valuable, yet cost-effective, option to consider when purchasing jewelry.

However, some people cannot wear white gold jewelry due to allergies to other metals—surprisingly, nickel allergies are fairly common, so white gold made using a combination of yellow gold and nickel can be uncomfortable for people to wear. If you have a metal allergy, this is not the material to choose.

The Differences Between Platinum and White Gold

There are several characteristics that differentiate platinum from white gold. For starters, Baraki explains that white gold is lighter and less dense than platinum, “giving it a more easy and wearable feel.” The other differences are seen in the color, price, durability, and popularity of each metal, as highlighted below.

Color

White gold has been a hot trend for decades, but contrary to popular belief, white gold is not a pure white metal. “Gold is yellow. To make it white, jewelers have to mix gold with other metals: alloys. Cheap white gold looks grey, sometimes even yellow, and it receives a rhodium plating to be bright white,” Nicolas Tranchant, CEO of Vivalatina, explains. Over time, you may need to have your white gold wedding jewelry re-dipped in rhodium to maintain its coloring.

Platinum, on the other hand, is naturally white in color, is rarer than white gold, and is hypoallergenic (an ideal choice for those will any metal allergies or sensitivities). “Platinum will never turn and keeps its white, metallic color,” adds Loryn Elizabeth, founder of LE Fine Jewelry.

Price

As Elizabeth puts it, “Platinum is roughly 40 to 50 percent more expensive than white gold because more platinum is required to make a piece due to its density. It is rarer than gold, which also contributes to its high price tag.” She continues, “Since white gold is a mixture of durable metals, it is much lower in price and more affordable than platinum.”

However, it’s not all about up-front costs. While white gold may be more affordable to buy at first, remember that it needs to be replated every five to 10 years to keep its color. While platinum may seem more expensive at first, it’s “less costly for maintenance,” Elizabeth shares.

Durability

“Generally speaking, platinum is more durable because of its heavier weight and density,” explains Baraki. “White gold is a bit more fragile, but it’s really dependent on the coating and finish.” Still, both metals can be used to create engagement rings and wedding bands and be worn every day for the rest of your life—though platinum is more durable, the durability of both metals is relatively high. “White gold is durable enough for everyday wear,” Elizabeth shares, while also adding that “platinum will require routine polishing and cleaning to maintain its smooth appearance.”

Popularity

Trends may come and go, but there’s one pure white metal that’s always at the top of the charts: platinum. “[This metal] always tends to be more popular than white gold for engagement rings. It is a rarer metal and more durable,” Suzanne Sachs, owner of Vintage Diamond Ring, reveals. “There is an undeniable elegance associated with a platinum engagement ring.”

Nonetheless, there isn’t much of a difference in style between platinum and white gold, though jewelers usually prefer to work with platinum since it is a more malleable metal.

Shopping Considerations

Ready to pick out a gorgeous ring for yourself or someone special? Before you begin shopping, take a look at three expect-backed tips that will help you make the right decision. 

Find the right jeweler. 

“Work with an honest jeweler who can steer you in the right direction. It is a huge decision that is incredibly exciting. To anyone who is currently buying: be patient, stick to your budget, and have fun!” advises Elizabeth.

Think through any skin sensitivities.

As mentioned, white gold isn’t a fit for everyone. “Some people have a nickel allergy, [and nickel] is part of the makeup of white gold,” says Sachs. “If considering white gold, make sure whoever is wearing the ring has no allergies to nickel.” If you have sensitive skin but do not have an allergy to nickel, you might still want to choose platinum over white gold. Try on both materials at the jeweler and see if you react—if you do, choose platinum over white gold.

Consider matching metals.

While it’s not a hard and fast rule, here’s a simple way to ensure your ring and band combination always looks effortlessly coordinated: “I would advise keeping your engagement ring and wedding band the same metal if possible,” says Sachs. However, the look you go for—mixing or matching—will depend on your own personal style.