White Metal Choices: Palladium vs. Platinum vs. White Gold



Here are a few thoughts on making the choice between these three white metals. Though all the prices and choices are not yet listed on our website, just about everything on this site can be made in platinum, white gold or palladium. If you are interested in a white metal ring, please read more about their various options and attributes below:

Color:


On a scale of 1, being pure white, platinum and palladium are at 11. Fourteen karat white gold is at 15 and 18K.white gold is at 18. Any alloy under an index of 19 is considered "good white" in the jewelry world.

Composition:


18K white gold is 75% gold. 14K white gold is 58% gold. Both palladium and platinum are 95% pure metal.

Hardness:


Palladium is slightly more durable than 14K white gold; both wear extremely well over time. Eighteen karat white gold is considerably softer, reflecting the malleability of gold.

Weight:


Its weight is similar to fine silver. Platinum is considered the hardest and more durable of precious metals. It is heavier than gold or palladium.

Cost:


Though palladium is less expensive than gold, a palladium ring and a 14K white gold ring are, at present, going to be similar in price. This is because 14K gold is alloyed, while palladium is 95% pure metal. Platinum can run approximately two to three times more than a gold or palladium ring.

Feeling Tone:


Though this is very subjective, many people find that metal has a feeling tone. Gold has always been associated with the sun and warmth. Some people choose gold because it feels better to them. However, others choose platinum and palladium because they like the cooler tone.