You’ve seen white gold everywhere, but have you ever wondered…what exactly is it? If so, rest assured you’re not alone. Below you’ll get a full picture of white gold is made of, and learn about some pros and cons of selecting white gold for your jewelry. We’ll also give you a rundown of what types of white gold we use here at W.R. Metalarts, including information about where we source it.
First, two terms to know:
What is white gold?
White gold is a metal created by mixing pure yellow gold with other metals, such as silver, nickel, or palladium, resulting in a white-colored alloy. It’s widely used for jewelry because of its appearance and durability. While some jewelers’ white gold is just plated yellow gold, we only offer long-lasting alloyed options. Think of white gold as a combination that brings together the elegance of gold, but with a beautiful white hue.
What are the pros and cons of using white gold in jewelry?
White gold is stronger and more durable than pure gold. The added metals in the alloy enhance its strength, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, some people may be allergic to the metals used in white gold alloys, such as nickel. If you have sensitivities, consider choosing a nickel-free white gold alloy such as palladium white gold or exploring alternative metals.
Railroad Textured Band in 14k White Gold and Milgrain Band in 14k White Gold
Is all white gold rhodium plated?
None of the jewelry at W.R. Metalarts is plated, including our white gold. Though it is common to see rhodium-plated white gold on the market, plating wears away with time, revealing the slightly yellowish hue of the underlying metal and will need to be replated over and over again to keep its “white gold” look. We are dedicated to creating long-lasting heirloom pieces, so you can expect your rings to look the same on your 50th anniversary as they did on your wedding day!
What kinds of white gold does W.R. Metalars use?
At W.R. Metalarts we offer three different kinds of white gold: Stuller x1 White Gold, Fairmined Nickel White Gold, and Fairmined Palladium White Gold. Each of these are alloyed a bit differently to achieve different colors and levels of durability.
Our traditional “Stuller x1” white gold is made from 100% recycled metal and has a higher nickel content, but doesn’t require plating. Now that we are transitioning to primarily using Fairmined metals, we offer two other white gold options that use ecological Fairmined gold alloyed with Fairmined silver, and either nickel or palladium.
Palladium is rarer so it fetches a higher price, but it’s the best option for people with nickel allergies. Each of our three options also offer a slightly different coloring, ranging from warm gray (Stuller x1) to a more white gray (Nickel and Palladium White Gold). Depending on your design vision, budget, sourcing preferences, and nickel sensitivity, we offer the perfect white gold option for you!
Still not sure how exactly to select your white gold?
We’ve got you. Just reach out to studio@wrmetalarts.com and we will be happy to ask and answer all the important questions so that you can pick the perfect metal with full confidence.