YELLOW, WHITE & ROSE GOLD – what is the difference?

Gold, long recognised as a symbol of wealth and luxury, comes in various hues, each offering its own distinct aesthetic and appeal. The most popular varieties are yellow, white, and rose gold, and while they all originate from the same precious metal, their differences lie in their composition and appearance.

Yellow gold is the most traditional form of gold and is closest to the metal's natural state. It is typically an alloy made from pure gold mixed with metals like copper and zinc to increase its strength and durability. The exact shade of yellow can vary depending on the karat; for instance, 24K gold is pure and has a rich, deep yellow colour, while 18K, 14K and 9K gold have a lighter hue due to the higher percentage of alloyed metals. Yellow gold is favoured for its classic look and has been used in jewellery for centuries.

White gold has a sleek, modern appearance, often preferred by those who enjoy the look of platinum or silver but who want the warmth and luxury associated with gold. White gold is an alloy of pure gold and white metals such as palladium, nickel, or silver. To enhance its shine and provide a protective layer, white gold is usually plated with rhodium, a hard metal that gives it a reflective, bright finish. Over time, this plating may wear off, requiring reapplication to maintain its lustrous appearance.

Rose gold is distinguished by its romantic pinkish-red hue, which is achieved by alloying gold with a higher percentage of copper. The more copper in the alloy, the more pronounced the rosy colour becomes. This type of gold has gained popularity in recent years for its vintage charm and unique colour that complements a wide range of skin tones.

In essence, the primary difference between yellow, white, and rose gold lies in the metals used in their alloys, which affect not only their colour but also their hardness, durability and maintenance requirements. Each type has its own appeal, catering to different tastes and preferences in jewellery design.