You already know if you’re a gold or a silver-tone person, but what you might not know is what the main differences are between white gold vs silver. If you’re faced with the decision to choose between white gold vs silver, it’s time to get to grips with the pros and cons of the two metals. The right choice will depend on your budget, and what type of jewelry you’re in the market for.
To the naked eye, white gold and silver look somewhat similar. The question asked is always whether you’re a ‘gold person’ or a ‘silver person’, rather than ‘yellow gold’ or ‘white gold’. When gold is referenced, it is generally assumed to be of the pure golden-hued variety, as opposed to its sister colors: rose or pink gold, and white gold. These other versions are not considered as pure, as they are mixed with other metals to achieve their hue.
How to understand the differences between white gold vs silver:
- White Gold vs Silver: At A Glance
- White Gold vs Silver: Key Differences
- How To Sell White Gold & Silver Jewelry?
- Where To Buy White Gold & Silver Jewelry?
White Gold vs Silver: At A Glance
What Is White Gold?
White gold’s purity is measured in the same manner as yellow gold, by its karat measurement. White gold has a silver tone, but is made from a mix of pure gold with other metals in order to create a silvery white color. The metals mixed with gold tend to be either silver, palladium, or nickel. It is important to make sure that the wearer doesn’t have an allergy, as it is a common type. White gold alloyed with nickel is usually coated with rhodium, which will protect wearers from their allergy but only until it has begun to wear off.
What Is Silver?
A chemical element, silver has the highest thermal and electrical conductivity of any metal. Silver is a precious metal, often mixed with copper to create a stronger substance. When alloyed with copper, it is called ‘sterling silver’ and often engraved or stamped with ‘925’ to signify the 92.5% pure silver composition. By nature, silver on its own is quite soft and susceptible to scratches.
Key Differences Between White Gold & Silver
White Gold vs Silver: Pricing
Regardless of market fluctuations, gold is more valuable than silver. Silver is typically used for costume jewelry, whereas white gold is used for jewelry that is made to last. This makes silver the more affordable option, while white gold is the middle ground between silver and palladium. Customers will often choose white gold as a more affordable alternative to platinum for engagement rings.
White Gold vs Silver: Quality
If you’re looking for a strong metal with durability, white gold performs much better than silver, as long as it has a high enough purity percentage. White gold is less likely to get scratched, corrode, or become diformed, which makes it the superior choice for engagement rings, or pieces you want to keep for a lifetime.
White gold and silver both need to be looked after properly. Silver needs to be regularly cleaned and polished, in order to prevent the metal from becoming tarnished. The rhodium coating on white gold will need to be reapplied every few years, if not, it will start to go yellow.
White Gold vs Silver: Occasion
For casual, everyday wear, sterling silver can be a good choice. If you’re looking to invest more in your jewelry, white gold tends to be longer lasting thanks to its sturdier construction. Although the difference in tone is nuanced, white gold is considered to look more refined than silver. If you’re in the market for costume jewelry or trend-focused jewelry, then silver is often the more appropriate metal choice.
How To Sell White Gold And Silver Designer Jewelry?
Whether you’re making room in your collection for something else or wanting to expand your edit, selling your designer jewelry to myGemma is the best way to get rid of unwanted pieces. Not only will you get the best price, but the whole process is easy, seamless, and you could get your cash in as little as 24 hours. myGemma also buys designer sneakers, watches, handbags, and other luxury accessories.
Where To Buy White Gold And Silver Designer Jewelry?
Once you’ve decided on white gold vs silver, head to myGemma to see our selection of pre-owned silver and white gold jewelry. From Cartier Love bracelets, to Tiffany & Co. silver necklaces, to Chanel drop earrings, our line-up is sure to have what you’re looking for. And if it doesn’t? Check back, as new styles are added regularly.
Buying pre-owned is better for the future of our planet and is the most sustainable way to shop. As well as being kinder to the environment, the resale market is also better for your wallet thanks to the lower price points.
