Many people don’t know the origin of white gold, which is arguably for many the most popular metal in jewelry on the market today. At LooptyHoops, we often receive questions about our white gold hoops. What is white gold? How is white gold different from platinum or sterling silver? Will white gold tarnish over time? Let’s start at the beginning with the origins of this versatile metal.
White gold was first created in the United States during World War I. At that time, platinum was considered the most luxurious metal used for making jewelry. Platinum was also incredibly durable, and this was of great value during the war. The government banned all non-military uses of platinum and took the country’s supply of this precious metal. This left the jewelry industry with a big problem – how would they be able to meet the demand of their customers for a white metal without the use of platinum, the most popular precious metal on the market?
Scientists and jewelers worked together to create a new metal alloy that would mimic platinum’s brilliant shine and feel just as luxurious and elegant. They decided that white gold would be a suitable temporary replacement, and they planned to return to using platinum after the war. Much to the jewelry industry’s surprise, white gold was a smashing success! Even when platinum jewelry became available again, white gold surpassed platinum jewelry in popularity, partly because of its lower price.
There is some confusion surrounding the mystery of what white gold is – some people believe that yellow gold and white gold are entirely different metals, but this is not true. White gold does not exist in a pure state. It is an alloy of gold and other metals, usually nickel, palladium, and zinc. In order to achieve that recognizable shine, most white gold jewelry is finished with a rhodium plating. This special coating with its reflective surface keeps your white gold jewelry’s finish bright for years.
When it comes to the differences between platinum, sterling silver, and white gold, let’s take a look at each metal individually. Platinum is a heavier metal and more pure than white gold. It is also much more expensive than white gold or silver because of its rarity. Platinum is more malleable than white gold, doesn’t tarnish easily (although it can dull), and is very durable. Silver is much more readily available and affordable than platinum or white gold, but it tarnishes easily over time.
White gold is less expensive than platinum – a white gold ring usually costs ¼ of what the same ring would cost if it were made of platinum! White gold’s rhodium finish also ensures a lasting bright white color and helps prevent tarnishing or faint yellowing. Many engagement rings and hoop earrings are crafted from white gold. It has a similar shine to sterling silver, but white gold is a more extravagant and elegant alternative. It is also very affordable and there is a large supply.
LooptyHoops.com has over a hundred 14 karat white gold hoop earrings available for you in every size and style imaginable. Stay on trend with a new pair of classic and elegant white gold hoops!
