Platinum vs White Gold for Diamond Rings

Both metals give a diamond a cool, bright setting. They differ in composition, upkeep, weight and price. If you are choosing for an engagement ring or a pair of studs, these are the points that matter.

What each metal is

White gold is gold, usually 18K or 14K, mixed with white metals and typically finished with a bright white surface layer. In 18K it is 75 percent gold.

Platinum is used at a much higher purity, commonly 95 percent in the 950 grade, and is naturally silvery white. See what platinum 950 is.

Colour over time

• Platinum stays white. Its colour is the metal itself.
• White gold has a surface finish that can wear thin over the years, revealing a slightly warmer tone. A jeweller can refresh it.

If you want a ring that never needs its colour restored, platinum has the advantage.

Durability

Both are durable. Platinum is dense and tends to develop a patina of tiny scratches in which metal is moved around, not lost. White gold is firm because of its alloy but loses a little metal in wear over a long time. Either metal holds a diamond securely when well made.

Weight and feel

Platinum is heavier than gold, so a platinum ring feels more substantial. Some people love that, and some find it heavy on a wide band. Try both if you can.

Skin sensitivity

White gold alloys sometimes contain nickel, which can irritate certain people. Platinum jewellery is mostly pure platinum, which makes it a common choice for sensitive skin, but individual reactions vary. Ask for the exact alloy. See skin sensitivity and jewellery metals explained.

Cost

Platinum usually costs more than white gold of a similar design, because of the price of the metal, its weight and the extra effort in working it. White gold gives you the same look at a lower price. The total depends on weight, making charges and stones, as in how jewellery price is calculated step by step.

Upkeep

| | Platinum | White gold | |---|---|---| | Colour | Stays white | May warm with wear | | Re-finishing | Optional polish | Periodic re-finish | | Weight | Heavier | Lighter | | Price | Usually higher | Usually lower |

Without the table: platinum keeps its colour, may be polished if you like, is heavier and usually costs more. White gold needs a periodic re-finish, is lighter and usually costs less.

How to choose

• Pick platinum if you want a low-maintenance white metal, a hypoallergenic-minded choice and a substantial feel.
• Pick white gold if you want the same colour at a lower cost, and do not mind an occasional re-finish.
• Consider yellow or rose gold if white is not essential. See rose gold, white gold and yellow gold: how to choose.

Common questions

Which one scratches less? Both scratch. Platinum shows scratches as a soft patina because the metal is moved around instead of removed. White gold also scratches, and its bright layer may wear.

Can I change white gold to platinum later? The ring would need to be remade. It is easier to decide at the start.

Which is better for a wedding band that I will wear daily? Either is suitable. Consider weight, upkeep and budget.

See them together

Ask to see the same design in each metal side by side. You can browse our rings to see what is available and book an appointment to compare them in daylight.