What Is White Gold?

White gold is one of the most popular choices for modern jewellery - loved for its bright, silvery finish and timeless elegance. But what exactly is white gold, how is it made, and how does it differ from yellow gold? Here’s everything you need to know about this luxurious metal.

At The Diamond Store, all of our white gold jewellery is crafted in 9K or 18K gold and rhodium-coated for a lasting, brilliant finish. Each piece is hallmarked by the London Assay Office, ensuring its gold purity and authenticity meet the highest UK standards.

What is white gold?

White gold is an alloy - a blend of pure yellow gold mixed with silvery-white metals such as palladium, platinum, or silver.

Pure gold on its own is soft and malleable, so jewellers add harder metals to make it more durable. This process strengthens the gold for everyday wear while also giving it a cooler, white-toned colour.

Unlike yellow gold, which occurs naturally, white gold doesn’t exist in nature - it’s created through this alloying process to achieve its distinctive silvery hue.

Why is white gold coated in rhodium?

Even with pale alloy metals, white gold retains a subtle yellow tint. To create a truly bright, white finish, jewellers apply a thin coating of rhodium, a precious metal from the platinum family.

Rhodium adds:

• A brilliant, mirror-like shine
• Extra resistance to scratches and wear
• Protection against tarnishing and discolouration

This finish gives white gold its signature lustre and enhances the sparkle of gemstones - especially diamonds.

Why does white gold turn yellow over time?

Over time with daily wear, the rhodium coating can naturally wear away, revealing the slightly warmer gold tone beneath.

This is completely normal and depends on factors such as:

• The pH balance of your skin
• Contact with lotions, perfumes or household chemicals
• Environmental factors like humidity or pollution

The solution is simple: have your jewellery re-coated with rhodium. Most jewellers, including The Diamond Store, offer this quick and affordable service - typically around £25 for a ring - restoring your piece to its original bright white finish.

Is white gold real gold?

Yes - white gold is real gold. Even though it contains alloy metals, its base material is genuine pure gold.

You can verify this by checking the hallmark inside your jewellery. In the UK, all jewellery weighing over one gram must be hallmarked by a Government Assay Office to confirm it contains the correct amount of certified precious metal.

Understanding gold purity: what does karat mean?

The amount of pure gold in your jewellery is measured in karats (K):

• 9K gold = 37.5% pure gold
• 14K gold = 58.3% pure gold
• 18K gold = 75% pure gold
• 22K gold = 91.7% pure gold

The higher the karat, the greater the gold content - and the softer the metal. This is true for all gold types, whether yellow, rose, or white.

The advantages of white gold

• Elegant and versatile: Complements all skin tones and works beautifully with any outfit.
• Enhances diamonds: The cool tone maximises brilliance and fire of your stones.
• Luxurious yet practical: Offers the high-end look of platinum at a more accessible price, and with greater durability than silver.

The disadvantages of white gold

• Requires upkeep: Over time, white gold needs rhodium re-coating to maintain its colour and shine.
• Minor maintenance cost: While re-coating is affordable, it may mean being without your jewellery for a few days.

Is white gold right for you?

Choosing between gold colours ultimately comes down to personal taste. If you love the modern, polished look of platinum or silver, white gold offers a beautiful alternative that balances beauty, strength, and value. Over the last fifty years, it has become the leading choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewellery, loved for its contemporary style and enduring appeal. Find your perfect white gold engagement ring here, and matching white gold wedding band.