White Gold vs Platinum, Which is Better

I have many clients asking if platinum is better than white gold. 

So here’s the scoop jewelry shoppers, one is not ‘better’ than the other, they're simply different.


Platinum and gold are precious rare metals, and both make beautiful pieces of jewelry. So it's wise to understand the distinction between these two fine metals before making your purchase.

Here is what I like to discuss with my clients:

Budget: platinum is denser than white gold, therefore an item will weigh more in platinum, therefore  costing more for the final product.

Labor expense: platinum is more complex to work with, and takes a very high heat level to melt. Because of its complexity many crafts people don’t work with platinum, therefore labor is much more expensive.

Color: platinum jewelry contains all white metals. The most common combination is 95% pure platinum and 5% iridium, so as platinum ages it looks more like stainless steel, having a more grey tone.  White gold contains pure yellow gold, and is mixed with other white alloys making it predominately white; however overtime white gold will get a warmer tone as the pure gold shows through. Some people don’t mind the differences, and some do. So it's really more personal as to what color looks good on your skin tone, and if the price difference is worth that difference. 

Hardness: One of the biggest misunderstandings amongst both consumers and jewelry sales associates, is that platinum is harder than white gold.  Platinum is heavier yes, but it's actually a softer metal than white gold. This is why most antiques that have engraved detail, and filigree work were made in platinum, as it's easier to engrave.  White gold is harder and more brittle than platinum, and though engrave-able, platinum will hold engraving longer than gold will. 

So whichever metal you choose to make your dream ring, it’s always best to think ahead, and be informed so you enjoy your special bauble for years to come!