SIRIUS ICE™ METALS

GOLD vs PLATINUM

Gold and platinum are the go-to metals for engagement and wedding rings. They share similarities but differ in key areas: appearance, cost, durability, and comfort.

APPEARANCE

  • Color: Platinum is naturally white; gold is naturally yellow.
  • White Options: Choose platinum or white gold for a white look.
    White gold = gold + white alloys + rhodium plating (gives a platinum-like white finish).
    18k white gold and 18k yellow gold both contain 75% gold; the alloy mix and rhodium make white gold appear white.

COST & VALUE

  • Platinum is typically more expensive for finished rings because it’s denser, rarer, and used in higher purity.
  • Purity: Platinum rings are usually ~95% platinum; 18k gold is 75% gold.
  • Even if pure gold is pricier per ounce, platinum rings often require more material by weight.

DURABILITY & MAINTENANCE

  • White gold’s rhodium plating wears over time, revealing a slight yellow tint; re-polishing and re-plating restores the bright white.
  • Platinum is naturally white and won’t yellow, though it can develop a soft patina that many people like.

COMFORT

  • Platinum feels heavier on the hand due to its density; gold is lighter and may feel more nimble.

Note: If you’re concerned about white gold maintenance, lifetime re-polishing and re-plating warranties (like ours) remove the hassle.

WHITE GOLD vs YELLOW GOLD

Two of the most popular metals for jewelry are white gold and yellow gold. Some people love both; others are loyal to just one.

The primary difference is color, which comes from the alloy mix:

  • White gold is blended with white metals (e.g., nickel, palladium) and finished with rhodium plating for a bright white sheen.
  • Yellow gold is alloyed with yellow/red metals (e.g., copper, silver) to preserve its warm hue.

Despite color differences, equivalent karats contain the same gold content. For example:

  • 18k white gold and 18k yellow gold both contain 75% pure gold
  • The remaining 25% is alloy metals that determine color and performance

MASTER DIAMOND CUTTER

PLATINUM - THE PROS
  • Naturally white with a cool, reflective finish.
  • Rarer and denser than gold, offering substantial weight and exceptional durability.
  • High purity (typically 95% platinum) makes it hypoallergenic.
  • Extremely resistant to wear; won’t tarnish or rust.
  • Harder than gold, ideal for daily wear and active lifestyles.
  • Excellent for sturdy engagement ring settings.
  • Neutral like white gold; complements any gemstone color.
WHITE GOLD - THE PROS
  • More affordable than platinum
  • Modern, widely popular look for engagement rings
  • Slightly harder and more scratch‑resistant than yellow gold due to stronger alloy metals
  • Enhances the brilliance of diamonds and complements all gemstone colors
  • Flattering on all skin tones, especially fair or rosy
YELLOW GOLD - THE PROS
  • Classic, vintage appeal with deep historical roots
  • Richest “gold” color, typically most hypoallergenic, and easy to maintain
  • Highly malleable for intricate settings and details like milgrain
  • Pairs beautifully with lower‑color diamonds, adding a warm glow
  • Flattering on all skin tones, especially olive or deeper tones
PLATINUM - THE CONS
  • Higher cost due to rarity and purity.
  • Heavier weight can be uncomfortable for earrings or very delicate pieces.
WHITE GOLD - THE CONS
  • Requires periodic rhodium plating to maintain its bright white luster
  • Often alloyed with nickel, which can cause allergic reactions unless nickel‑free alloys are used
YELLOW GOLD - THE CONS
  • Softer and more prone to dents and scratches; benefits from regular cleaning and polishing
  • Alloy metals can occasionally tarnish or react, leaving a temporary dark mark on the skin