Gold and platinum are the two most commonly used metals for engagement and wedding rings. Both metals are unique, yet similar in several...
Gold and
platinum are the two most commonly used metals for engagement and wedding
rings. Both metals are unique, yet similar in several ways. Let’s look at how
gold and platinum compare in appearance, cost, durability, and comfort.
White Gold Vs Platinum – Color
Platinum is a
natural white metal, while white gold is given its color artificially by
alloying gold with silver or palladium and by adding rhodium plating to it.
While white gold
looks very similar to platinum, over time the the rhodium plating in white gold
will wear off and fade to a yellowish tinge. Once you re-polish and re-plate
the white gold ring, it will look white again. Platinum, which is naturally
white, will not fade to yellow.
Gold Vs Platinum Cost
While gold and
platinum are similar in price per gram, platinum is more dense and so more of
it is required to make a ring. Additionally, platinum rings are usually 95%
pure platinum, while 14k gold is only 58.5% gold (18k gold is 75% gold).
Therefore, platinum rings are more expensive.
Gold Vs Platinum Shine
White gold is
has very high reflectivity and therefore shines much brighter and whiter when
new. Platinum also has a shine, but it does not last very long. The rhodium in
both white gold and platinum eventually wears off giving a dull grey look, but
the shine can be replaced by re-plating the rhodium.
Gold Vs Platinum Durability
Platinum is Stronger and More Durable
Though both gold
and platinum are strong and durable precious metals, platinum is the stronger
and more durable of the two. For example, the prongs holding the center stone
of a platinum engagement ring are less likely to break then those of a gold
engagement ring.
Platinum Scratches Easier than 14k Gold
Despite being
stronger and more durable, platinum is a softer metal than 14k gold. This means
it will get scratched a little easier than 14k gold would. However, an
important thing to note is when gold is scratched, the gold is lost and it
looks like a scratch. When platinum is scratched, the platinum gets moved from
one place on the ring to another, and it develops something called a patina
finish (which looks like an antique or worn ring). A lot of people love and
desire the patina finish.
The good thing
is that re-polishing your ring will help restore the ring to near its original
look for both platinum and gold. All Do Amore Rings include free lifetime
polishing so if you purchase your ring from us, don’t worry, you’re in great
hands.
Gold Vs Platinum Comfort
Because platinum
is more dense than gold, platinum rings will be heavier than gold as well. Some
prefer the heavier weight, but some find the lightness of gold rings to be more
comfortable. It is really up to each individual person. One option for people
seeking a comfortable ring it is to opt for one with a comfortable design, like
this men’s fingerprint wedding band.
One more benefit
of platinum is that it is hypoallergenic. While gold rings do not create an
allergy issue for most people, some can develop an allergic reaction from the
nickel alloy used in gold rings.
Final Note:
If you still
can’t decide between gold and platinum, don’t worry. If you have the budget, go
for platinum. If you don’t, then gold is still a very precious metal and is an
excellent choice. At the end of the day, all rings require some minimal upkeep and maintenance so make
sure you purchase your rings from a company that has a lifetime warranty and
will re-polish, clean, and re-plate your rings for free.
