Metal Guide

White Gold

A very popular choice for fine jewellery, white gold is created by mixing yellow gold with different metals to create a stronger, whiter alloy. White gold is plated with rhodium which creates a protective coating and produces a bright, reflective finish. With wear, this coating will begin to wear away and will require replating. Replating is a simple process that can be done at any time to restore the bright, white colour.

Yellow Gold

Historically, yellow gold has been the most popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands. Like white gold, yellow gold is mixed with other metals to make it stronger. Its natural yellow colour means that yellow gold jewellery never changes colour or needs to be re-plated. Yellow gold engagement rings can be maintained with a periodic polish by a jeweller to remove surface scratches.

Rose Gold

A lovely choice for all skin tones, rose gold is created by mixing yellow gold with copper and silver to achieve a soft, pink hue. Rose gold has enjoyed a rise in popularity over the last few years, particularly for women, and is the most romantic colour thanks to its rosy appearance. Like yellow gold, rose gold does not require any plating and can be maintained with a periodic polish by a jeweller to remove surface scratches. Over time, rose gold jewellery can become slightly darker, as the copper begins to oxidise. This characteristic is desirable as it gives rose gold jewellery a beautiful, vintage look however this can also be polished to make it look brand new again.

Platinum

Platinum is a naturally white metal often used to craft jewellery. Visually, platinum looks quite similar to white gold, however the two metals have their own unique properties and wear differently over time. Platinum is 95% pure and hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin.

Platinum is denser than gold, so it has a heavier and more substantial feel. Platinum is not as malleable as gold, meaning a platinum ring will be more resistant to bending than a gold ring. Despite being stronger and more durable than gold, platinum is softer, meaning it is more likely to scratch. To maintain the lustre of a platinum ring, take it to your jeweller annually to be repolished. Platinum is a naturally white metal so unlike white gold, it does not need to be plated with rhodium.