
Written By Alex Wong.
Last updated: 14 Oct 2024.
Written By Alex Wong.
Last updated: 14 Oct 2024.
When selecting fine jewellery, the choice of metal is as crucial as the design and gemstones it accompanies. This article delves into the distinctions between two popular metals used in jewellery making: white gold and silver, focusing especially on diamond settings with 18k white gold.
White gold is an alloy created by combining pure gold with white metals such as palladium or nickel, sometimes also including silver or copper. The alloy is usually coated with a thin layer of rhodium to enhance its whiteness and improve its durability. This rhodium plating gives white gold its highly reflective and scratch-resistant surface, which is particularly valuable in jewellery. The resulting colour is a brighter white compared to silver.
Contains 58.3% gold mixed with white metals. This composition makes it durable and resistant to wear, which is why it’s a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands.
Contains 58.3% gold mixed with white metals. This composition makes it durable and resistant to wear, which is why it’s a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands.
Silver, in its purest form, is too soft for durable jewellery making, so it is commonly alloyed with other metals such as copper to create sterling silver, which contains 92.5% silver. This makes it more durable but still softer than many other metals used in jewellery. Silver typically has a warmer white appearance with a greyish undertone, which can be particularly appealing in vintage or rustic jewellery styles.
By understanding these materials, consumers can make more informed choices based on their preferences for durability, cost, and appearance.
The choice between white gold and silver for jewellery settings depends on several factors.
An alloy combining pure gold with harder metals like palladium and nickel. This composition makes it more resistant to scratches and dents compared to silver. White gold's hardness allows for secure settings for diamonds, minimising the risk of damage or loss.
A softer metal known for its affordability and classic look. While beautiful, silver's softness makes it more susceptible to scratches and requires more care, especially for frequently worn pieces. This might not be ideal for settings meant to hold valuable gemstones.
For settings meant to hold valuable gemstones and prioritise durability, white gold might be a better option. If affordability and a classic aesthetic are your main concerns, silver can be a beautiful choice, but be mindful of potential wear and tear.
The rhodium plating on white gold not only enhances its whiteness but also adds to its lustre, making it a preferred metal for showcasing the brilliance of diamonds.
Silver offers a softer lustre and a vintage feel, which can be appealing for certain designs but may not provide the same vibrant backdrop for diamonds as white gold.
When selecting jewellery, it's essential to consider the materials used, especially for items that come into direct contact with the skin, like rings and bracelets. Different metals can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. This section delves into the allergenic properties of white gold and silver, highlighting options that minimise the risk of reactions, such as nickel-free white gold and sterling silver. Understanding these aspects ensures both the safety and comfort of jewellery wearer.
For those seeking a balance between elegance, durability, and hypoallergenic
properties, 18k white gold is a balanced choice, particularly for engagement rings and
other high-stakes jewellery pieces. Choosing the right metal for your jewellery enhances both the
beauty and the longevity of each piece.
At Alex Wong Jewellery, we specialise in exquisite diamond
jewellery and exclusively offer 18k white gold ring bands. Choosing the right metal not only
enhances the beauty and longevity of your jewellery but also ensures it matches your style and
values. Contact us today to explore our unique selections tailored to your preferences.
Finding a jeweler you can trust isn't always easy. That's why at Alex Wong, we're committed to building trust with every piece we craft. Explore our Google Reviews to see the experiences and trust our customers share.
We highly recommend booking a personal viewing appointment for the best experience. Seeing and testing our
diamonds in person allows you to truly appreciate their beauty and ensures the perfect fit.
When scheduling your visit, please share your preferences and budget with us. We are dedicated to providing
tailored recommendations and are eager to assist you in selecting the ideal
gift.