We compared white gold vs silver and rose gold vs yellow gold before, but the two most commonly used metals in gem rings are white gold and yellow gold. White gold vs yellow gold, both seem to contain gold, what is the difference between them?
Table of Contents
What is white gold and yellow gold? How white & yellow gold is made?
White & yellow gold are both alloys. The different components and proportions of the two give them different colors and properties. About the question how is white gold made white, this is mainly because of the white metals such as silver in the composition. The production of white gold and yellow gold is to mix 24k pure gold with different metals and then process them.
What is 14k white gold? 14k white gold vs 18k white gold vs 24k white gold what’s the differences?
14k white gold is an alloy that contains 58.3% pure gold, with the rest made up of other metals. The main differences between 14k white gold vs 18k white gold vs 24k white gold are the composition and color. 18k white gold contains 75% pure gold and is richer in color than 14K white gold, with a slightly warmer yellow hue. 24K white gold does not actually exist, as 24K gold is 100% pure gold and cannot be alloyed to achieve the white appearance of white gold.
The History of White & Yellow Gold
White gold was developed in the early 20th century as a more affordable alternative to platinum.The demand for white gold surged in the 1920s and 1930s during the Art Deco era, as its sleek, modern look complemented the bold geometric designs of the time. The introduction of rhodium plating further enhanced its popularity by giving it a bright, reflective finish.
Yellow gold has been used in jewelry for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, who revered gold for its beauty and symbolic connection to the gods. In the Middle Ages, goldsmiths refined their techniques, and yellow gold became a symbol of wealth and status among European royalty.
What is the difference between white gold and yellow gold?
The main difference between white gold and yellow gold can be summarized as color tone and composition, worth and use. Both alloys use metals such as silver, palladium, nickel, and copper mixed with pure gold respectively, and are expressed in different carats according to the different gold content. Different carats of the same metal may have slightly different colors.
White Gold vs Yellow Gold: Color and Composition
White gold is usually silvery white because it is mixed with white metals such as silver, palladium or nickel and often plated with rhodium. In stark contrast to white gold color, yellow gold is made of pure gold with metals such as copper or silver that increase the hardness of the gold and give it a natural yellow luster.
White Gold vs Yellow Gold: Value
When comparing the price of yellow gold and white gold, both metals have a similar intrinsic value since they contain the same amount of pure gold. However, the cost of white gold vs yellow gold can differ due to the additional rhodium plating and the alloys used in white gold. As a result, white gold price vs yellow gold price may vary, with white gold often being slightly more expensive due to these added materials and maintenance requirements. In terms of value, is white gold as valuable as yellow gold? Generally, yes, since both contain the same gold content, but the difference in cost comes from the manufacturing process and upkeep of white gold.
White Gold vs Yellow Gold: Engagement Rings
Both white gold and yellow gold are two alloy materials widely used for engagement rings. Which is better, yellow gold or white gold for engagement ring? In fact, whatever yellow gold or white gold engagement rings, both have their own outstanding ring styles and designs. White gold engagement rings are popular for their modern feel and shiny silvery white appearance. It can highlight the brilliance of diamonds, especially colorless or near-colorless gemstones. The warm yellow luster of gold gives the ring a classic and traditional feel, suitable for those who like classic engagement rings designs. Gold works best with warmer-toned gemstones.
The Pros and Cons of White Gold vs Yellow Gold
Pros of White Gold
- Modern look: White gold has a stylish, modern silvery-white luster that enhances the sparkle of diamonds and gemstones.
- Wear resistance: White gold is often plated with rhodium, which increases its wear and corrosion resistance.
- Good matching: It is suitable for matching with gemstones of various colors, especially colorless diamonds.
Cons of White Gold
- Maintenance Needed: Since the rhodium plating wears off over time, white gold needs to be periodically re-rhodiumed to maintain its luster.
- Allergy Risk: Some white gold alloys contain nickel, which may cause skin allergies.
Pros of Yellow Gold
- Classic Look: Yellow gold has a warm yellow hue that symbolizes tradition and timeless beauty.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike white gold, yellow gold does not require plating, so it requires less frequent maintenance.
- Non-Allergenic: Yellow gold is less likely to cause skin allergies than white gold.
Cons of Yellow Gold
- Scratch-prone: High-purity gold (such as 18K and 24K) is softer and more easily scratched or deformed.
- Not suitable for all gemstones: The yellow luster may not look as bright with colorless gemstones as it does with white gold.
White gold vs yellow gold which is better?
White gold is ideal for a modern, sleek look and pairs well with colorless gems, but requires regular maintenance. Yellow gold offers a classic, timeless appeal with lower upkeep. The choice depends on personal style and preferences for aesthetics and care.
Is yellow gold and white gold real gold?
Yes, both yellow gold and white gold are real gold. They are made by mixing pure gold with other metals. Yellow gold retains its natural color, while white gold is alloyed with white metals like silver or palladium and often coated with rhodium to give it a bright, silvery appearance.
Is white gold more expensive or worth more than yellow gold?
White gold is typically not more expensive or worth more than yellow gold in terms of pure gold content. However, it can be slightly more expensive due to the additional rhodium plating and alloys used to achieve its color, as well as the cost of maintenance over time.
Conclusion
There is no specific way to say which is better about white gold vs yellow gold, the specific situation depends on your own pursuit. But what is certain is that both are very fashionable metals used in jewelry. No matter which one you choose, it is a choice that you will not regret, and it can add a little beauty to you.
FAQs About White Gold vs Yellow Gold
Does gold scratch easy?
Yes, gold is a soft metal and can scratch easily, especially higher karats like 18K or 24K due to their higher gold content. Lower karats, like 14K, are more durable but still prone to scratching over time.
Is white gold stronger than yellow gold?
No, white gold is not inherently stronger than yellow gold. Both are made from pure gold mixed with alloys, and their strength depends on the type and amount of alloys used. However, white gold may appear more durable due to its rhodium plating, which provides extra protection against scratches.
Is white gold worth more than yellow gold? Why is white gold more expensive?
White gold and yellow gold are usually priced similarly based on their gold content. However, white gold can be more expensive because it requires rhodium plating to achieve its bright white finish, which adds to the cost. For example, if the white gold and yellow gold price is the same, the rhodium plating and the specific alloys used in white gold production can increase its price by about 5-10% compared to yellow gold.
Can you wear yellow gold and white gold together?
Yes, you can wear yellow gold and white gold together like mixing white gold engagement ring with yellow gold wedding band. Mixing metals is a modern and stylish trend, allowing for a unique, personalized look. Combining yellow gold and white gold can create an eye-catching contrast, making your jewelry stand out.
Do diamonds look better in white or yellow gold?
Diamonds tend to look better in white gold because its bright, reflective surface enhances the diamond’s brilliance and colorless appearance. However, diamonds can also look stunning in yellow gold, especially if the diamond has a slightly warmer tint, as the gold complements the stone’s natural warmth. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the diamond’s color grade.
