guidance
White gold and platinum can give a similar aesthetic to your engagement ring, but there are some important differences between the two metals which can be important when choosing between them.
Both are very popular choices for engagement rings, so we thought it best to give you a simple guide to help you decide.
As you probably already know, gold in its pure form is yellow. We measure the purity of gold in carats (which you'll see abbreviated as K) with 24 carats being pure gold.
24-carat gold isn't suited to jewellery which you intend to wear every day because in its natural state gold is a soft metal and will take too much damage. To counter this, other metals are added to create a stronger alloy.
White gold (specifically 18ct which Nightingale tends to use) is made up of 75% gold and then 25% of white metals such as silver and palladium. Finally a rare white metal called rhodium is used to plate the exterior of the jewellery to give the distinctive white gold finish.
Platinum is rare, naturally white metal. Because it doesn't need the colour from other metals there's no need to add as much to change its properties. This makes it a more expensive choice compared to gold.
Typically 95% platinum is used for jewellery, with 5% cobalt added to provide more durability. This is referred to as 950 platinum.
Despite their similar aesthetic white gold and platinum have some key differences.
The rhodium plating on white gold will degrade over time so will need to have regular replating by a professional which can slowly add to the overall cost over time. Platinum on the other hand won't need this. Platinum will accumulate minor scratches over time but this will actually create a more desirable look which is referred to as the 'patina of age'.
The actual cost of a white gold ring compared to platinum will vary depending on the market prices of the metals at the time of purchase, but platinum will generally be the more expensive option because it's much rarer.
Many people choose to use white gold in their ring because they prefer to spend more on the gemstone.
A little known advantage of platinum is its hypoallergenic nature. White gold is mixed with many other metals so allergic reactions are more likely. Platinum is much purer and doesn't react as readily so is a much safer option for wearers who are more prone to allergies.
As we've mentioned above, standard white gold requires a higher maintenance compared to platinum. However, at Nightingale we've started using a higher grade white gold alloy.
The superior quality means regular rhodium touch ups aren't needed.
A common question we get asked is whether silver is a good alternative to white gold and platinum because of its similar appearance and lower cost.
Silver tends to be even less durable than gold so the likelihood of damage is much higher. Additionally silver tarnishes much faster and it can lead to the ring's gemstone not shining as brightly compared to gold or platinum.
These two characteristics mean silver isn't an ideal choice for engagement rings despite its beauty in other jewellery pieces.
In summary, platinum rings are a higher upfront cost compared to white gold. However over the long-term the cost of regular replating can balance out.
Those who suffer from metal allergies will find a platinum ring more suitable.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preferences and budget. Regardless, both choices will give you a beautiful ring that you'll treasure forever.
If you prefer a white gold engagement ring that doesn't need regular replating get in touch and ask us about our higher grade white gold rings.
Further reading
The stunning teal coloured sapphires from Montana are fast becoming one of the most popular engagement ring style choices of 2022.
At Nightingale we love their distinctive aesthetic and their ethical origins and they frequently appear in our ethical engagement rings.
If you'd like to learn more about these beautiful gemstones then read our full guide now!
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Rubies are famed for their signature deep red colour and have been treasured by all cultures throughout history.
Often referred to as the ‘King of precious stones’ they make a perfect gemstone for engagement rings due to their beauty, hardness and symbology, often conjuring feelings of passion, love and loyalty.
If you’re looking for an ethical engagement ring with these beautiful gems you’re in the perfect place to learn more. Read on for the full story.
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The beautiful green emerald sits alongside diamonds, sapphires and rubies in the ‘Big 4’ of gemstones.
A favourite of the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, emeralds have been mined since at least 300BC, leaving their mark on history whilst still being one of the most sought after gems of modern times.
Today we’re going to help you get familiar with these luscious gemstones as well as giving you some practical tips if you’re looking to use them in your engagement ring.
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At Nightingale we’re all about ethical diamonds. And as far as we’re concerned, they should be the minimum standard when making jewellery.
Unfortunately, that’s not the case. It took a lot of time and effort for us to find sustainable diamond suppliers for our ethical engagement rings and we'd rather you didn’t have to go through the same trouble.
So we’re going to lay out all the knowledge we have to help you find a truly ethical diamond.
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One of our favourite times of year is nearly upon us. Valentine’s Day!
Being the most popular engagement date of the year, we naturally get a lot of questions from customers. So we thought why not put everything we know into a handy engagement ring guide for Valentine’s Day 2022!
Here’s what we’ll cover...
A firm contender for the most romantic style of engagement ring, the symbolism of the Toi et Moi ring (or Moi et Toi as they're also known) is plain for all to see. Two gemstones. One representing you. One representing your soulmate.
This beautiful design style is enjoying a revival which looks to continue well into 2022 and beyond. If you're interested in a toi et moi engagement ring you'll find all the information you need to know right here in our easy guide.
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Deciding to propose to your partner is a big decision. And along with that decision usually comes a big financial commitment to buy a suitable engagement ring.
Here's 6 tips to help you get a ring that's perfect for you and your budget.
Choosing the right metal for your bespoke engagement ring is one of the most important choices you can make when creating a ring. The right material sets the overall style of your ring and if done correctly, complements your choice of gemstone and mount.
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It seems like so many industries are making great sustainability strides, but the jewellery trade continues to drag it's heels. Confusing and ineffective 'green' schemes. A lack of transparency in the origins of diamonds and other materials.
It all combines to make buying ethically a minefield, but at Nightingale, we're doing our best to make it as simple and transparent as possible.
So whether you want to buy ethical diamond jewellery from us, or somebody else, this guide will give you the information you need, all the key questions you need to ask and the best possible chance of buying beautiful jewellery from somewhere that is making a positive difference in the world.
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Curious about moissanite? Having trouble deciding which gemstone to use for your ring? Read on to find out more about the key difference between moissanite and diamonds (both mined and lab grown!)
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Prized and admired for millennia. As the first true gems ever to be used as adornments, the history of pearls in jewellery is nearly as old as the history of civilisation itself.
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A diamond certificate is the evaluation by a third party accredited gemological laboratory of your diamond. In addition to the diamonds carat weight and measurements, a certificate includes grades for the diamonds cut colour and clarity.
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The last thing we at Nightingale want is to supply a ring and at the crucial ‘down on one knee’ moment it turns out to be too large or too small. Nightingale offer one adjustment free in the first three months.
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It is mandatory in Great Britain for precious metals that meet the weight criteria to be assayed and hallmarked (stamped) to indicate the type and fineness of the metal.
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There are many beautiful gemstones that have been created by nature and mined from the earth but the most regal of them all is the diamond. The mysterious diamond is the most popular gemstone of them all and the one that has the most myths and legends associated with it.
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Wondering what exactly a lab grown diamond is and why they're a perfect ethical alternative to mined diamonds? Find out here...
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Nightingale can supply an outstanding collection of coloured diamonds loose or set within a bespoke or finished piece of Nightingale jewellery.
Read MoreGet in touch
Ready to take the first step towards the perfect engagement ring?
Get in touch if you'd like our help, or keep browsing our ethical engagement rings!
