Gold or Platinum?

[Vanessa]

I am undecided as to which metal I should have my engagement ring made. Could you advise me whether platinum is better than 18ct white gold. I know I don't want it made in yellow gold and I am aware that platinum is much more expensive.

[Paul Wright]

In many way gold and platinum are very similar. They are both valuable, tarnish resistant and hypoallergenic. Because both are malleable they are ideal for making jewellery. Both metals are heavy and dense in comparison to other metals.

It is difficult to say which metal is better for your engagement ring as personal preference comes into the final decision and your budget will also play a part in the final decision. However vayious factors should be taken into account. Firstly it is important to be aware that while platinum is naturally white while gold, which is naturally yellow, has alloys such as palladium, zinc or silver added to whiten the metal. This means 'white gold' is not completely white and so all white gold jewellery is rhodium plated to achieve a pure white finish. This means that 'white' gold jewellery may require additional plating when it wears off to maintain a high white lustre.

There is no doubts that platinum has, in recent years, become extremely popular despite the ever increasing price of the rare metal. The neutral 'silver' coloured metal enhances diamond set jewellery and because of its density makes it extremely durable and less likely to wear over time. There is no doubt that white gold is not as hard wearing as platinum.

However it must also be noted that white gold is considerably cheaper than platinum and the overall cost of your engagement will be that much higher if it is made in platinum than one made in 18ct white gold. There is always the possibility that you may wish to spend the difference in price on a bigger diamond!

[Paul Wright]

You may like to have a look at our platinum wedding rings and platinum diamond engagement rings available at the Paul Wright Jewellery online shop.