As the countdown to your wedding day begins, there's a multitude of decisions to be made, each one contributing in some part to the makeup of your special day. Among these choices is one that symbolises not only your commitment but your personal style as well: the selection of your wedding ring, and with it the wedding band metal.
Amongst the many options, two precious metals, white gold and platinum, consistently rank as the most popular choices for women’s wedding rings. Whilst at first glance they may appear similar they each have distinct characteristics and properties that you need to keep in mind. In this guide, we will delve into the world of these two popular metals, helping you make an informed choice as you look to purchase this lasting symbol of your enduring love.
What is a Platinum Wedding Ring?
Platinum is the epitome of elegance and luxury in the world of jewellery. It is a naturally white metal, known for its purity and rarity. Platinum rings are made from 95-98% pure platinum, with the remaining percentage being other noble metals, such as iridium or ruthenium. This high level of purity ensures a bright, lustrous finish that doesn't fade over time.
What is a White Gold Ring?
White gold, on the other hand, is a versatile and fascinating metal. It is created by alloying pure gold with white metals like nickel, palladium, or silver. The result is a beautiful silvery-white metal that serves as an excellent canvas for diamonds and gemstones.
White gold wedding bands are available in various carat types, with the most popular being 9K, 14K, and 18K. The carat number represents the percentage of pure gold in the alloy, with higher carat values indicating a higher gold content. For example, 9K white gold contains 37.5% pure gold, while 18K contains 75%.
Top Tips for Choosing Between White Gold & Platinum
Your wedding ring is more than just a piece of jewellery; it's a lifelong companion. This precious band will adorn your finger as you journey through life together, making it essential that it stands up to daily wear and the test of time. When choosing between white gold and platinum for your wedding ring it’s also important to consider other aspects like comfort, and whether or not one particular metal resonates with your own personality and style.
Before you say "yes" to this significant purchase, take a moment to consider the following advice, which will guide you towards the perfect choice for your enduring symbol of love.
Durability & Longevity
When it comes to durability, platinum takes the crown. This noble metal is renowned for its exceptional resilience. It resists wear and tear with remarkable fortitude, making it a perfect choice if you plan to pop your ring on daily. Platinum's strength ensures it remains unblemished, even after years of wear. In contrast, while white gold is durable, it may require periodic maintenance to retain its pristine appearance. This is because white gold often requires rhodium plating to maintain its bright, white shine. Over time, this plating can wear off, necessitating re-plating.
Weight & Comfort
The weight of your wedding band can significantly impact your comfort and preference. Platinum is denser than white gold, resulting in a heftier feel on the finger. Some individuals appreciate this substantial weight, finding it reassuring, and heavier wedding bands are typically synonymous with more glamorous looks. Others, however, may find it less comfortable or prefer a lighter option. White gold, with its lower density, generally offers a lighter feel, making it a preferable choice for those who value comfort and ease of wear.
If you’re thinking about buying online but want to get a feel for the different weights, we recommend coming in to visit us to get a feel for each metal.
Cost Considerations
Your budget is a pivotal factor when choosing between white gold and platinum wedding rings. Platinum's rarity and purity make it a premium option, commanding a higher price point compared to white gold. If you're working within a budget, white gold may offer a more cost-effective solution while still retaining its elegance and charm.
However, like all precious metals the price is tied to global markets and can fluctuate over time. For the most up-to-date advice and guidance we suggest reaching out to us and we can also give you tips about financing.
Engraving Personal Touches
Both white gold and platinum can be elegantly engraved with meaningful messages or significant dates, adding a deeply personal touch to your wedding band. The choice of metal doesn't significantly affect your ability to engrave your ring. This allows you to customise your band with sentimental inscriptions, making it uniquely yours.
Appearance Over Time
One of platinum's distinct characteristics is the development of a patina finish over time. This natural ageing process adds depth and character to the metal, enhancing its uniqueness. Some individuals appreciate this transformation as it reflects the enduring nature of their love story.
On the other hand, white gold tends to need a little more maintenance to retain its sparkling appearance. Typically, your jeweller will recommend periodic rhodium plating, which ensures your wedding ring has a consistently bright and shiny finish.
Diamond White Gold and Diamond Platinum Wedding Bands: A Brilliant Choice
In modern times there’s a prevailing misconception that wedding rings for women, and even wedding rings for men, play a secondary role to the engagement ring. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Wedding rings are powerful symbols of your enduring commitment, and they come in a range of styles that transcend the classic band, including stacked wedding rings and eternity wedding rings.
At Meaden Master Jewellers, we take pride in offering an extensive collection of diamond wedding bands that cater to a diverse range of tastes and styles. Whether you're drawn to vintage-inspired designs with intricate filigree details or sleek, contemporary bands that exude modern elegance, our selection has something for everyone, including:
Elegance in Every Facet: Diamond White Gold Wedding Bands
Diamond white gold wedding bands are a stunning fusion of the luminous allure of white gold and the captivating brilliance of diamonds. These bands are available in a wide range of designs and styles, each meticulously crafted to cater to diverse tastes. The diamonds embedded in white gold settings create a mesmerising contrast, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the ring. Whether you prefer a vintage-inspired design or a modern, minimalist look, diamond white gold wedding bands offer an elegant and timeless option.
The Radiance of Forever: Diamond Platinum Wedding Bands
For those who appreciate an even more luxurious style, diamond platinum wedding bands are the epitome of opulence. Platinum's natural whiteness complements the dazzling sparkle of diamonds with unmatched purity. These bands exude an air of sophistication, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a wedding band that is both timeless and radiant.
Bespoke White Gold & Platinum Wedding Bands
When it comes to wedding bands, no choice is more personal and meaningful than a bespoke creation. Custom wedding rings crafted from white gold or platinum hold a unique charm, as they are tailored to encapsulate your love story, your style, and your personality. At Meaden Master Jewellers, we take immense pride in our ability to turn your vision into a stunning reality.
White gold, with its innate beauty and versatility, serves as an excellent canvas for crafting bespoke wedding bands. Our skilled master jewellers can mould this precious metal into any shape or design you desire, creating a ring that is uniquely yours. Whether you envision a classic, timeless band or a modern, avant-garde masterpiece, white gold can be fashioned to match your style and preferences.
For those who prefer the lower maintenance option, platinum is also a great choice for bespoke wedding bands. Our artisans can work with this naturally white and rare metal to craft a piece that epitomises elegance and sophistication. The malleability of platinum allows for intricate detailing, making it an ideal medium for crafting custom designs that tell your love story.