Jewelry shopping can be intimidating. That’s why we started Ask Holden, our blog where we answer your FAQs, break down scary industry lingo, and guide you in finding the perfect piece of jewelry.
White metals are an increasingly popular choice for wedding rings, but they can be confusing. Platinum vs white gold - they look the same, so what exactly *is* the difference? What are the pros and cons of each? Why is it called white gold when it really looks silver? Today, we’re talking platinum vs white gold, and how the two differ. They’re both great choices for a wedding ring, so knowing a bit more about each might help you pick one to put on *that* finger.
White Gold
White gold rings, like yellow gold and rose gold styles, are made by mixing pure gold with alloy metals for added strength. 14 karat gold is 14 parts gold out of 24 total parts, 18 karat is 18 parts gold, and so on. Percentage wise, 18 karat is 75% gold, 14 karat is 58.3%, and 10 karat is 41.6%.
So why do white gold rings look silver? That's thanks to rhodium plating, an industry-standard finish that gives white gold its bright, silvery tone. Without the rhodium, you get a hint of the yellow color from the yellow gold in the alloy. Rhodium plating makes all white gold rings look the same - whether your ring is 14k or 18k white gold, it will appear silver in color. This is different from rose gold and yellow gold rings - to learn more about how karat affects color, check out our post on everything to know about karat. Rhodium plating can also be helpful if you have some sensitivity to nickel, which is a common alloy metal used in white gold rings. The plating acts as a protective barrier, keeping the nickel from irritating your skin. If you’re allergic to nickel and worried about any nickel in your ring, feel free to reach out to us at help@hiholden.com, and we’d be happy to make you a gold ring that is completely nickel-free.
Platinum
Platinum rings, on the other hand, are naturally white (aka silver) in color. Platinum is the world’s most unreactive metal, making it a popular choice for catalytic converters in cars. It’s also extremely rare - all the platinum ever mined would only fill one inch of an Olympic swimming pool, whereas all the gold ever mined would fill three pools. You also need a lot more of it - in order for a ring to be certified 950 platinum, the alloy must be 95% platinum or higher. Platinum is also extremely heavy - a six inch cube of platinum weighs 165 lbs!
When choosing between platinum vs white gold, note that platinum doesn’t degrade– a simple scratch just moves the metal to one side or the other. A note on scratching: all rings made from precious metals (even a particularly durable metal like platinum) will scratch through daily wear and tear. Wondering is platinum harder than gold? Not exactly—platinum is dense but softer on the Mohs scale than some gold alloys. Eventually, scuffs and scratches blend together over time and give your ring a lovely sheen. Dirty ring? Check out our post on how to clean your wedding ring. Platinum is also hypoallergenic.
The Takeaway
So, between white gold and platinum - which metal is better for you? It totally depends. Is platinum more expensive than gold? Yes–platinum’s density and rarity contribute to its higher price point compared to white gold. Some people prefer platinum because it has a little more weight to it, and you don't have to worry about the rhodium plating on white gold naturally wearing away over time. Others like that a white gold ring feels a little lighter on your finger (and your wallet). If you're asking is platinum better than gold, the answer really comes down to your preferences for weight, maintenance, and cost. At the end of the day, the choice is totally up to you - you can’t go wrong.
Questions? Give us a shout at help@hiholden.com or a ring (pun intended) at 646.722.6817.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between platinum and white gold?
While they look similar, the difference in platinum vs white gold comes down to composition. White gold is a mix of pure gold and alloy metals, typically dipped in rhodium to achieve its silver hue. Platinum, on the other hand, is a naturally white metal that’s denser, rarer, and hypoallergenic.
2. Is platinum better than gold for a wedding ring?
It depends on what you value. Platinum is better than gold if you want a heavier, hypoallergenic, and lower-maintenance ring over time. However, gold—especially white gold—is lighter, more affordable, and just as beautiful with proper care.
3. Is platinum harder than gold?
Yes and no. Platinum is softer than white gold in terms of surface hardness, so it may scratch more easily. However, it’s denser and more durable overall because the metal is displaced, not lost, with wear unlike gold, which gradually wears down.
4. Is platinum more expensive than gold?
Generally, platinum is more expensive than gold due to its rarity, higher purity (95% vs 58.3% in 14k gold), and density. It also requires more metal to make the same-size ring, contributing to its higher cost.
5. Does white gold need maintenance?
Yes. White gold rings are coated with rhodium, which can wear off over time. You may need to replate your white gold ring every 1–2 years to maintain its bright silver finish—this is one area where platinum requires less upkeep.
6. Is platinum or white gold better for sensitive skin?
Platinum is best for sensitive skin because it’s naturally hypoallergenic. White gold sometimes contains nickel, which can cause irritation unless it’s covered with rhodium or made with a custom alloy.
7. Which one should I choose—white gold or platinum?
Choose platinum if you want a long-lasting, low-maintenance, and allergy-friendly metal with a heavier feel. Choose white gold if you prefer a lighter ring and a more budget-friendly option with similar aesthetics.
About Holden
Holden was built on the belief that love should never be limited. That’s why we offer engagement rings and wedding rings that are inclusive, ethical, and personal. Choose a minimalist Classic band, a vibrant Gemstone ring, or a modern Multi-Stone piece to reflect your unique path.