Learn more about the characteristics of platinum metal.
Choosing the right metal for an engagement ring is crucial, yet simple. Think about her preferred jewelry style when deciding on the precious metal of her engagement ring.
If she like white precious metal than your options are platinum or white gold (18k or 14k). Both of these metals are reflect light on the diamond beautifully and excellent for moderns. Below are few guidelines that may help with your decision.
White Gold or Platinum?
14k White Gold
18k White Gold
Platinum
2.75 grams
3.01 grams
4.56 grams
approx $400*
approx $540*
approx $680*
* Prices of metals are depend base on the daily market value.
Gold is the most classic and the common precious metals used for engagement rings. In its purest form (24-karat), gold is too soft for use in jewelry. When used to make engagement rings, gold is typically alloyed with other metals like copper, silver and nickel to add strength and durability. The ratio of alloy to gold content is what determines the gold’s purity. For example 18k has 75% gold and 25% other metals and 14k has 58.5% gold and 41.5% other metals. Any gold purity less than 14K is not recommended for use in high-quality jewelry. Diamond Traces engagement rings are only 14K and 18K gold.
Platinum is the most precious and most rare metal used on jewelry and lately become very popular. Used for jewelry, platinum is usually 95% pure and 5% of palladium, ruthenium or other alloys. Platinum also have its hypoallergenic qualities what make it ideal for those with sensitive skin. The rarity of platinum is what makes its high market value. Platinum setting can cost you up to times 5 more expensive than gold. Platinum is harder and more durable than gold, however it can be scratched, so is not entirely damage-proof. While platinum retains its solid white coloring permanently, white gold can begin to exhibit a slight yellow hue over time as the outer layers of metal wear off. At Diamond Traces, we coat each of our white gold jewelry pieces with a protective layer of Rhodium, a metal that creates a white, gleaming look similar to platinum. White gold should be re-coated in Rhodium periodically to help maintain its original luster.
For those who prefer the look of platinum but need an economical alternative, white gold offers the same visual appeal at a significantly lower price.
Yellow Gold
If your special lady wears mainly yellow gold jewelry, choosing that metal for her engagement ring will complement her current style. Yellow gold is a classic choice for engagement rings, complementing those with warmer skin tones. 18k yellow gold is more richer and golden color than 14k yellow gold. Unlike white gold, yellow gold does not need to be re-plated, and the chance of allergic reactions to the alloys used in yellow gold is much lower.
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