White gold is by far the most popular choice of precious metal precious metal used in the my practice as a goldsmith. It is made by mixing pure gold with other metals, such as nickel, palladium, or silver, to create a durable and scratch-resistant alloy. White gold is available in different karats, including 10K, 14K, 18K, and 19K. In this blog post, we will focus on the benefits of 19K white gold.
I use a proprietary blended version of 19K white gold which is allows me to produce jewellery. The reason it is 19K, is that this is the optimal amount of gold which is used in conjunction with the other metal alloys it is mixed with to provide these qualities while maintaining work-ability (without becoming too brittle as an example of a negative quality).
These are the sought after qualities afforded by 19K white gold when considering a timeless creation:
Higher Purity: 19K white gold contains 79% pure gold, making it more valuable and lustrous than lower-karat white gold alloys. This also means that it is less likely to tarnish or corrode over time.
Better Durability: The addition of other metals, such as nickel or palladium, to 19K white gold increases its strength and durability, making it more resistant to scratches and dents.
Hypoallergenic: Some people may be allergic to nickel, which is commonly used in lower-karat white gold alloys. However, 19K white gold is often alloyed with palladium or other metals that are hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.
Better Color: 19K white gold has a brighter and whiter color than lower-karat white gold alloys, which can have a yellowish tint. which requires periodic rhodium plating or "re-dipping" as it is commonly refereed to. This makes it a great option for jewelry that will need less costly maintenance and can be polished and refurbished to it's "new" state with minimal time or effort. This alone makes it a great choice, as this cost free maintenance will offset the initial higher cost of the metal by eliminating the cost of the periodic re-finishing and rhodium plating of the lower karat metals. (* This doesn't apply to 10K as explained below.)
Versatility: 19K white gold is a versatile metal that can be used to create a wide range of jewelry pieces, from engagement rings and wedding bands to necklaces and earrings.
Timeless: White gold is a timeless metal that never goes out of style. Its classic beauty and versatility make it a popular choice for jewelry that can be passed down from generation to generation.
In conclusion, white gold is a popular and versatile metal that offers a range of benefits, including higher purity, better durability, hypoallergenic properties, brighter color, and timeless beauty. With a range of karats available, including the more affordable 10K white gold, there is a white gold option to suit every budget and taste. If you are looking for a precious metal for your next jewelry purchase, consider 19K white gold for a timeless and classic look with little requirement for regular maintenance such as polishing a rhodium plating. It is by far my favorite "white metal" to work with. I highly recommend it, and my clients can testify to the great qualities that I've outlined in this post.
