If you’ve been in the market, or are just starting to shop around, it’s likely you’ve found that most of our designer engagement rings are available in 14-kt gold, 18-kt gold or platinum! So if you’re trying to decide on the perfect ring, it’s important to fully understand the major differences between gold and platinum when choosing to make this investment.
Gold
Yellow gold, white gold, rose gold — they all start with the same component: a naturally yellow gold. Surprise! White gold is actually 40% to 50% yellow gold mixed with other alloyed metals that give it a whiter hue. Typically mixed with copper, nickel, silver, zinc, or palladium, gold rings are a bad choice for a fiance with a hypoallergenic allergy! White gold rings still require rhodium plating after extended wear to bring the ring back to its bright white finish. The gold quality is determined by the amount of pure gold in the piece.
24-kt – 100% pure gold
18-kt – 75% pure gold
14-kt – 58.3% pure gold
While white gold may seem like a cheaper option for the same look, it is actually a less strong metal than platinum. Platinum will scratch easier as it is a movable metal, but Platinum is stronger against breakage. Also, because 18-kt gold is made up of more pure gold than 14-kt, it is a little softer, and therefore shows more damage to the ring. If you are looking for a more durable option, of the two golds, 14-kt is harder and more resistant to scratching.
Platinum
As mentioned above, platinum is a luxurious and naturally white precious metal that is stronger than gold and is moveable. There are no colored metals such as nickel or copper mixed in, making it hypoallergenic. Typically, platinum is mixed with palladium, another naturally white metal. Unlike white gold, you do not have to get platinum rhodium plated! Platinum takes on a patinated look that may darken the shining white to a more dull white color. Some say it ages like the time you spend with your significant other and choose to keep the weathered look. You are able to get platinum polished, but you will want to limit the times you do this to avoid shaving off too much of the softer metal.
Because platinum is harder to work with than gold, it requires more time, attention, and expertise to craft the perfect piece. Since rings made of this natural metal are 90% to 95% pure metal, the item crafted will feel significantly heavier and denser than its opponent. Platinum is much rarer than gold, making up approximately 10% of the amount of gold mined. Due to this rarity, platinum is slightly more expensive, but will always carry it’s value as an investment.
The Decision
When it comes down to it, either metal is durable enough to last a lifetime and this really depends on your personal preference and budget. Personally, we prefer platinum since it is collectable in any form and will hold its value long term better than white gold. It also is hypoallergenic and naturally white so no worries about it turning slightly yellow! White gold is a great option for someone who wants a more scratch resistant ring and will be able to upkeep with the rhodium plating maintenance. Click here to make an appointment to better explore your setting options!
FAQs
Overall, Platinum is considered 'better' as it's the most natural, purer, and most valuable metal in comparison to Yellow and White Gold. However, it depends on what you're looking for in your jewellery. Platinum jewellery is extremely valuable and that also means it tends to be more expensive.
Is platinum worth more than gold? ›
Platinum is also usually more expensive than gold. Why is platinum more expensive than gold? More than 1,000 tons of gold are mined every year, but only a little over 150 tons of platinum are mined in a year. This scarcity makes platinum more expensive than gold most of the time.
Is it better to go gold or platinum? ›
Is platinum more valuable than gold? Platinum is generally valued higher than gold. This is because platinum is rarer than gold, has a higher density and is purer. Platinum rings require more platinum than gold rings require gold, which can increase the overall cost.
Is it better to buy gold or platinum? ›
Gold has long been considered one of the most reliable investments. Its price has increased steadily since 1971, when it was first allowed to be traded freely on international markets. Platinum, however, is more volatile, and its prices can fluctuate significantly depending on supply and demand factors.
Is 14k gold better than platinum? ›
When it comes to choosing between 14k white gold and platinum, it really comes down to personal choice and needs. If you're looking for a ring that will be more durable, requires less trips to the jeweler for professional maintenance, and it is within your budget, choose platinum.
Why is platinum not as popular as gold? ›
For starters, gold is far more abundant in the earth's crust, making platinum rarer. Whilst 1,500 tons of gold are mined annually, only 160 tons of platinum are extracted. When people ask 'Why is platinum not as popular as gold?,' it's perhaps less a question of popularity and more a matter of rarity.
Is it worth buying platinum jewelry? ›
If you value a piece that will stand the test of time, both in terms of style and substance, then platinum is a compelling option. Its unique characteristics make it not just an investment in jewellery, but an investment in quality, longevity, and peace of mind.
Why is gold preferred over platinum? ›
Some investors may want to prioritize stability and long-term investing. In that case, gold is likely the better option. The precious metal has a longstanding history of reliable demand which often spikes during economic downturns. On the other hand, platinum usually performs better during times of economic growth.
Why does platinum have no resale value? ›
According to The Economic Times, platinum, in general, has a poor resale value. The main reason is because a relatively small number of people are willing to buy it. This doesn't mean you can't find a reputable buyer, but you'll need to do some searching as you explore your options.
What looks better gold or platinum? ›
Gold vs Platinum: Appearance
If you want a yellow ring, then gold (also termed yellow gold) is the best option. However, if you want a white ring, you can opt for platinum or white gold. White gold rings are composed of gold, alloys, and a rhodium plating which gives it a white look that's very similar to platinum.
Many estimate that platinum is 30 times rarer than gold. There have been about 208,000 metric tons of gold and only 6,000 metric tons of platinum mined in human history. While the demand for platinum continues to grow, the use of gold in finance and investment has outpaced the industrial demand for platinum.
Should I wear platinum or gold? ›
Overall, Platinum is considered 'better' as it's the most natural, purer, and most valuable metal in comparison to Yellow and White Gold. However, it depends on what you're looking for in your jewellery. Platinum jewellery is extremely valuable and that also means it tends to be more expensive.
Can you store gold and platinum together? ›
For example, “platinum doesn't oxidize, but it can get scratched because it's actually a little bit softer than gold,” Anderson said. “So if you store platinum and gold jewelry together, the gold might scratch the platinum piece and you'd start to develop a duller finish.”
Which is costly, gold or platinum? ›
Platinum (Pt) is the rarest & the most precious of the 3. Platinum (Pt 950) is currently around 50% more expensive than Gold. It is naturally white & resistant to tarnish.
Is platinum a good investment? ›
Platinum is often considered a diversification option for investment portfolios, as it has a low correlation with other asset classes, such as stocks and bonds. Like other precious metals, platinum tends to hold its value over time so it has historically been used as an inflation hedge.
Does platinum turn yellow? ›
To be considered platinum, a piece must contain 95% or more of the metal, making it one of the purest precious metals you can buy. Over time, platinum will fade in a different way. It won't turn yellow, like yellow gold; but, it will begin to lose its shiny finish and build a natural patina (more on this in a bit).
Why platinum has no resale value? ›
According to The Economic Times, platinum, in general, has a poor resale value. The main reason is because a relatively small number of people are willing to buy it. This doesn't mean you can't find a reputable buyer, but you'll need to do some searching as you explore your options.
Do pawnshops accept platinum? ›
Most pawnshops, if not all, only accept gold jewelry, but others can also accept silver, platinum, and other precious metals. These should be in good condition: no damage, no chipped stones, no missing pieces. They assess the price according to the weight and size, if it's in mint condition or if it has damages.
What metal is worth the most? ›
RHODIUM: TOP MOST VALUABLE METAL
Rhodium is the most valuable metal and exists within the platinum group of metals. It is used in jewelry for a final finish on white gold jewelry. It occurs in the very same ore in which gold and silver exist – only, in smaller quantities.
