An engagement ring is one of the most significant purchases you will ever have. In addition to its symbolic meaning, it has to be a piece of jewellery that will pass the test of time both in terms of style and quality. White gold has become a classic choice among the numerous options, as it is a beautiful and durable choice that couples can rely on. Before making your choice of this luxurious metal, here are five essential facts you should know about it.
1. Understanding White Gold
White gold is an alloy of pure gold with hard metals like palladium, nickel or silver. This mixture adds strength to it and adds its characteristic silvery white look. A rhodium plating is normally done to increase its luster and prevent surface scratching. In time this plating can be reapplied to ensure that the ring remains lustrous in years to come.
2. Why White Gold is a Popular Choice
White gold is modern, yet timeless and can be used with all kinds of ring settings and cuts of stones. It goes extremely well with diamonds and makes them even more dazzling and creates a high-fashion and retro style. The white gold engagement rings are also very popular as they have the same aesthetic qualities as the platinum rings, yet the price is usually lower.
3. Consider the Karat
Karat is the gold purity in your ring. Typically white gold comes in 14k and 18k. Although 18k has a richer feel and more gold, 14k is a little more durable and scratch resistant. The decision is left in the hands of the person depending on the budget and the level of wear that the ring has to sustain on a daily basis.
4. Maintenance and Care
White gold like all the other fine jewellery needs to be taken care of in order to maintain its look. Plating with rhodium may flake away with time leaving a slight yellowish hue. Cleaning and periodical re-plating will help keep your ring in tip top shape. Most jewellers provide maintenance packages that comprise of inspection, cleaning, and plating services- this is a factor to consider when purchasing.
5. Matching with Other Jewellery
Versatility is also one of the merits of white gold. It looks stunning with both cool-toned and warm-toned accessories, which creates no issues in matching it with other items in your collection. White gold perfectly complements any gem, regardless of style, and allows the gem to be the center of the design.
Final Thoughts
Engagement rings are more than just a purchase, they are a declaration of a commitment and good taste. Learning about the peculiarities of white gold, you will be able to choose something that will be appreciated throughout your life. Be it its strength, style, or beauty, a white gold engagement ring is a piece that will never go out of fashion.
