Our motto when it comes to explaining white gold vs. yellow gold is: same, same but different! Yellow and white gold obviously look very different when it comes to color, but they’re actually more similar than you might think. Let’s break down the main characteristics of white and yellow gold in order to best understand their differences and similarities!
Understanding Gold Alloys
What is White Gold?
So what is white gold and how is it made? White gold is made by alloying (mixing) natural, 24 karat yellow gold with other metals which results in a white colored metal: white gold. Btw: a karat (abbreviated as ‘k’) is a measure of the purity of gold, pure gold being 24 karats.
White gold is alloyed with white metals such as nickel, palladium, silver, or zinc to change the metal color from natural yellow to white.
The 14k white gold creation process begins with pure, 24k yellow gold that is alloyed with white metals. The pure, yellow gold is melted and the alloyed metals are gradually added to the melted gold. Once the alloy is thoroughly mixed, it’s then cast into molds to create jewelry components.
What is Yellow Gold?
Yellow gold is slightly more straightforward. It’s an alloy (mix) of pure, 24k gold plus silver or copper which produces the traditional, warm yellow color. Yellow gold is primarily alloyed with other metals in order to increase its durability and strength.
How Alloys Affect the Color of White Gold & Yellow Gold
Yellow gold’s color is influenced by mixing in copper for warmth and silver for brightness. This combination of alloy metals results in the classic, warm hue of yellow gold.
White gold’s color is influenced by mixing in nickel for a cooler tone, palladium for brightness, or silver/zinc to achieve a variation in shade. The resulting color is why people often compare white gold vs silver.
Durability and Hardness
Yellow gold, including 14k and 18k yellow gold, is softer and less scratch-resistant than white gold due to the softer alloying metals (copper and silver). This softness makes yellow gold jewelry pieces more prone to scratches.
White gold is harder and more scratch-resistant due to alloying metals that are stronger, like nickel, palladium or platinum group metals.
Generally, white gold jewelry is slightly more scratch-resistant than yellow gold because the metals alloyed with white gold are harder than the metals alloyed with yellow gold.
Cost of White Gold vs. Yellow Gold
The good news is that the cost of white and yellow gold is almost exactly the same. The only difference in cost would be if there were different karatages (purity of the precious metal). For instance, 18k white gold and 18k yellow gold may have similar price points, but they are typically going to be at a higher price point than 14k gold.
Preventing Tarnish and Damage
The following are some helpful tips to consider when cleaning your gold jewelry.
- White gold is less prone to tarnishing due to its alloy composition, but it is not impossible. The rhodium plating often applied to white gold jewelry can wear off over time, exposing the underlying metal
- Yellow gold is known for its resilience and doesn’t tarnish as easily as some other metals. This is due to its high purity and the fact that it’s less reactive to oxygen and moisture. However, yellow gold can still accumulate dirt, oil, and other residues over time, which can cause it to lose its shine.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone as these substances can weaken the gold. Similarly, avoid abrasive cleaners such as powdered cleaners and toothpaste, as they can erode the gold and alter the color.
- Use only soft brushes as stiff-bristled or abrasive cleaning tools can scratch gold.
- Be mindful of thick lotions and creams. These can leave a residue on your gold, making it appear dirty and potentially leading to discoloration.
Gentle Cleaning Remedies for White & Yellow Gold
- Good old soap and warm water! This method is classic and efficient. A soft brush is extra important as it’s a safe way to get in between small cracks where gross things settle.
- A jewelry cleaner - like the DRD Jewelry Cleaner - also works, but there needs to be something to move the dirt away, that’s why a soft toothbrush is great. Combine water with the contents of one DRD cleanser pod in the eco-friendly jar, immerse your jewels in the solution, let rest for five minutes, then scrub with the gentle brush (that’s included) to remove any gunk, rinse, and blot dry with a soft cloth! The solution is good for several uses; however, we recommend changing out the water once it becomes murky. The system comes with two cleanser pods. [Please note this cleanser is not safe to use on pearls, soft stones or other gemstones].
- We also offer our Jewelry Dish and Cleaner Set that comes with our cleaning solution! Everyone needs a trinket tray to store their favorite everyday jewels!
The moral of the story: follow your heart and personal sense of style when it comes to choosing yellow or white gold! We all love a good remix, and yellow and white gold are exactly that! Reminder to run wild and free with your jewelry – never be afraid to mix metals. In fact, go for it - we encourage you to achieve the ultimate glow that comes from yellow gold and white gold worn side-by-side! However, embrace your mood – sometimes you’re feeling a yellow gold vibe while the next day you might be all over the white gold. It’s good to have variety in your jewelry collection in order to express yourself through color and style - it’s FUN! Should you have questions about how to style your jewels or ANYTHING - please reach out! We love you, always happy to chat.
