What Is White Gold Jewelry?

White gold is made by combining pure gold with white metals such as silver, palladium, or nickel. The exact proportions of the metals used to make white gold vary depending on the desired characteristics of the finished product. For example, using a higher proportion of palladium or silver can result in a more silver-colored white gold, while using a higher proportion of nickel can result in a more yellow-colored white gold.

To make white gold, the gold and other metals are first melted down together and mixed thoroughly to create an alloy. The alloy is then cooled and shaped into the desired form, such as a bar or sheet. If the white gold is intended for use in jewelry, it is usually cast into a mold to create the final piece.

Once the white gold has been formed, it is typically coated with a layer of rhodium, a hard, white metal, to give it a brighter, more reflective appearance. This process is called rhodium plating, and it helps to protect the white gold from scratches and other forms of wear and tear. The rhodium plating may need to be reapplied periodically to maintain the appearance of the white gold.

White gold is a popular choice for engagement rings and other types of jewelry because it is durable, relatively inexpensive, and can be easily shaped and molded into various designs. However, it is not as strong as yellow gold or platinum and may need to be re-plated with rhodium periodically to maintain its appearance.