WHITE PRECIOUS METALS

Platinum, palladium and white gold are all precious metals used in jewellery making. They have differing characteristics and compositions.

Platinum is a dense, durable and naturally white metal. It is rarer and more expensive than gold. Platinum jewellery is generally composed of at least 95% pure platinum (marked Pt950). It is highly resistant to corrosion and is hypoallergenic. Its colour is naturally white and it does not require and rhodium plating to maintain its appearance. It is prized for its strength and durability and is often used for intricate designs and gemstone settings. It does not tarnish.

Palladium is also naturally white in colour but it is lighter and less dense than platinum. It is more affordable than platinum but more expensive than gold. Most jewellery makers use alloys of 95% or higher (Pd950). It is a brittle metal and is generally not used for gemstone settings. It is also hypoallergenic and suited to those with sensitive skin.

White gold is an alloy of pure gold and other metals – usually in a ratio of 75% to 25%. The alloys may contain silver, palladium or nickel. To enhance its appearance white gold is often rhodium plated. Over time this plating can wear and the piece may need to be re-plated.

So cost, style and care will decide your choice!