White Gold Engagement Rings

White gold engagements rings are a cheaper alternative to platinum, although they are not as strong or shiny. In its purest form, white gold is 17K. White gold engagement rings are made by taking gold alloy and adding a white metal to it. This white metal is usually silver, nickel, or palladium being the most popular. Other possible whiteners include platinum, chromium, cobalt, tin, zinc, and indium.

The different alloys used will result in different properties and portions for the gold. Nickel is good for rings and pins because of its strength. Most American and Italian white gold alloys use nickel. A common problem with using nickel is that it causes dermatitis, through allergic reactions when worn in contact with the skin.

Many of the prong settings, especially in white gold engagement rings, are made from the white gold-palladium alloy. This white gold-palladium alloy is softer and pliable. It offers for the highest quality of white gold, usually around 17K.

Most white gold engagement rings will be coated with a thin layer of rhodium that will give the white gold a somewhat satin finish luster. White gold engagement rings with this coating may require a recoated as the shine dulls and it wears off. White gold engagement rings are often chosen because it makes a diamond look like it has less color. The yellow gold color can often make a diamond appear to have a yellow tint.

Many antique engagement rings are made from white gold for their added durability over yellow gold. The choice of white gold engagement rings may have nothing to do with the durability, but just what your preference is on look and color. A white gold engagement ring or other white gold jewelry is often chosen by someone with a pale complexion simply because it looks better.

White gold engagement rings are available in every style and setting that yellow gold engagement rings are. White gold is often chosen because it is a better match to other gemstones than yellow gold. Even though the most common choice for engagement rings is a diamond, you can choose the gemstone of your liking. Sapphires, pearls, rubies, and emeralds can all make a beautiful engagement ring in a white or yellow gold setting. Any of the stones can also be used in addition to diamonds. A diamond center stones that is surrounded by the vibrant colors of sapphires, rubies, and emeralds make a spectacular appearance.