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Platinum vs. Palladium vs. White Gold

Platinum vs. Palladium vs. White Gold

If you love the look of white metal jewelry, you’ll find options in platinum, palladium, and white gold. Here’s how they compare:

Metal

Durability

Color Over Time

Weight

Maintenance

Platinum

Extremely durable

Develops a soft "patina"

Heavy

Can be polished to restore shine

Palladium

Durable, but lighter than platinum

Stays white

Lighter than platinum

Low maintenance

White Gold

Durable, but rhodium plating wears off

Needs rhodium re-plating

Lighter than platinum

Needs occasional upkeep

  • Platinum & Palladium – Naturally white metals that won’t fade over time.
  • White Gold – Needs rhodium plating to stay bright; otherwise, it can develop a slightly yellowish tint over time.

If you want low-maintenance white metal, platinum or palladium may be the way to go.

Why Does My Platinum Ring Look Dull?

Platinum is one of the most durable jewelry metals, but over time, it develops a patina—a soft, matte look caused by tiny scratches on the surface. Unlike gold, platinum doesn’t wear away; it just shifts, keeping its weight and structure intact.

Some people love this patina because it gives the ring a vintage, lived-in look. But if you prefer a shiny finish, platinum can easily be polished back to its original luster.


Final Thoughts

Choosing the right jewelry metal depends on your style, lifestyle, and skin sensitivity. Here’s a quick guide:

  • For durability Choose 14K gold, platinum, or palladium
  • For a rich gold tone Choose 18K gold
  • For easy maintenance Choose platinum or palladium
  • For sensitive skin Avoid nickel in white gold and consider platinum

Whether you love classic yellow gold, bright white metals, or vintage-inspired patina, understanding the differences can help you choose jewelry that fits your needs.

Would you like help finding the perfect metal for your next jewelry piece? Let us know—we’d love to help! 💍✨

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