What is white gold?
White gold is made by combining pure gold with other metals to create a more durable and paler alloy. Because pure gold is naturally yellow and a bit too soft for everyday use, metals like palladium, silver, nickel, or zinc are added to strengthen it and to also give it a lighter hue. An 18 karat white gold ring contains 75% pure gold, while a 14 karat one has about 58%, and the remainder is made up of sturdier metals.
To get the bright white finish seen on white gold rings, jewellers apply a rhodium coating. This layer doesn't only give a shiny, mirror-like appearance, but it also guards the gold beneath from scratches and tarnishing.
White gold provides a style that is similar to platinum and silver, but with different characteristics. It is more robust than silver, it is lighter than platinum, and it is considerably more budget-friendly than platinum of the same purity. This all adds up to mean white gold can provide the sophistication of platinum without the high cost.
Why choose a white gold engagement ring
The way diamonds shine against white gold is beautiful. This silvery white metal enhances a diamond's brilliance, making it appear cooler and brighter. When you set a high-colour grade diamond (such as a D through G) in white gold, the gem's quality really stands out.
White gold also complements coloured gemstones beautifully. It provides a perfect backdrop for sapphires, aquamarines, morganite, and emeralds, allowing their colours to take centre stage. So, for designs that feature multiple stones like trilogy rings or those with side accents, white gold makes sure that the gemstones remain the focal point rather than the metal itself.
This versatile metal suits every style preference, too, whether your skin tone is warm or cool. It blends seamlessly with silver and platinum pieces you might already own and pairs elegantly with existing or future white gold wedding bands.
Another appealing aspect of white gold is its affordability. It gives you the opportunity to get the sleek look of platinum but at a more budget-friendly price. This cost-saving makes it possible to allocate funds toward a larger centre stone, superior diamond quality, a more detailed setting, or a coordinating wedding band, making white gold a smart and stylish option.
Ring styles in our white gold collection
Our collection of white gold engagement rings features a wide range of both classic and modern styles. If you prefer a simple and elegant look, solitaires on a sleek white gold band provide a classic choice, emphasising the diamond's beauty without any distractions. If you like a bit of extra sparkle, halo and hidden halo designs surround the centre diamond with smaller stones, enhancing its size and brilliance on your finger.
Three-stone rings (also known as trilogy rings) highlight a larger centre diamond flanked by two smaller stones, often in shapes that match or complement each other. The Toi et Moi style (featuring two stones side by side) gives a modern and sculptural option for those seeking something a bit different.
We offer a variety of choices, including round brilliant, oval, elongated cushion, emerald, radiant, pear, marquise, and princess cuts for centre stones. These diamonds are available as both mined and lab-grown options.
Custom and made to order
At Harry & Co, each white gold engagement ring is created just for you. You choose your centre stone and let our skilled jewellers bring your vision to life. If you have a particular design in mind that isn't in our current collection, don't worry. We offer the chance to collaborate with our designers to create a unique piece that reflects your style.
We ship Australia wide, or you can visit our Hyde Park studio in Adelaide to meet with a consultant in person. Book a consultation or add a piece to your bag online to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is white gold or platinum better for an engagement ring?
Both materials are long-lasting options for everyday wear. While platinum is heavier and occurs naturally in its pure white form without any need for replating, it's much more expensive than white gold, which is less dense and provides the same white finish for a more affordable price, but with the caveat of having to replace the rhodium coating occasionally.
How often does white gold need to be re-plated?
For most people, every two to four years, depending on how frequently the ring is worn and the conditions it's exposed to. Hot water, hand washing, harsh chemicals, and even the chlorinated water in pools all accelerate the rhodium plating wearing off. We replate every ring that we make.
Does white gold contain nickel?
It can. Certain white gold alloys contain nickel as the metal that whitens it, which could trigger a reaction in people who are allergic to nickel. In our white gold, we use palladium instead of nickel, making it hypoallergenic.
Can I mix white gold with yellow or rose gold jewellery?
Yes. Mixed metals can be stacked for quite an effective effect, not only for engagement rings but also for wedding bands. Combining a white gold engagement ring with a yellow gold wedding band is a modern trend that many clients adore.
Can I see white gold engagement rings in person before buying?
Visit our Hyde Park studio in Adelaide to try rings on, view loose diamonds, meet with a consultant, and compare metals side by side. If you're interstate or overseas, we offer virtual consultations and ship Australia wide. A white gold engagement ring is a piece you'll wear every day for the rest of your life, and we want you to be sure of it.
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