A Guide to White Gold Jewellery

Discover the allure of 18ct white gold jewellery at Laings, where this radiant material is celebrated for its timeless elegance. Enhancing the luminosity of diamonds and casting a captivating glow that enchants jewellery lovers, it is no surprise that white gold is so popular in jewellery and engagement rings. Laings guide to white gold jewellery provides all you need to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of this exquisite precious metal.

What is white gold jewellery?

18ct white gold is 75% gold and is commonly mixed with alloys such as platinum and palladium to improve its strength and durability as well as reduce the yellow colour. As a naturally yellow material, rhodium plating is added to white gold to create a bright, lustrous finish. This lightweight material is ideal for jewellery like earrings and pendants – its malleability is perfect for intricacies and fine details.

When was white gold first used in jewellery?

White gold was invented in the 19^th century and became more popular in the 1920s as a low-cost substitute for platinum. Its appeal lies in its attractive lustre, durability, and malleability, qualities that have sustained its popularity to this day. However, the idea of it being a low-cost substitute for platinum has shifted due to the rising price of gold, driven by its increasing desirability.

Can you wear white gold every day?

Elegant and sleek, white gold jewellery is the perfect accompaniment to your everyday ensemble. White gold is durable enough to wear every day, so you often find it is used in engagement rings and diamond jewellery. Layer your white gold jewellery and diamond pieces for an elegant and contemporary style that will effortlessly transition your look from day to night.

What should white gold be stamped with?

White gold jewellery should be hallmarked with the Fineness Mark, which depicts the purity of the metal in parts per thousand. The 9ct gold hallmark will read 375 (375 per 1,000), 14ct - 585 (585 per 1,000), 18ct - 750 (750 per 1,000) and 22ct - 916 (916 per 1,000). At Laings, most of our white gold pieces will contain the 750 hallmark for 18ct gold, a metal chosen for its elegance and durability.

How often does white gold need to be replated?

The amount of time between replating your white gold jewellery will depend greatly on the wear. For instance, a white gold ring that is worn daily and is frequently exposed to soaps and lotions will require more frequent replating compared to a white gold pendant. As a general guideline, a white gold engagement ring should undergo rhodium replating every 6 to 12 months to preserve its radiant white lustre. On the other hand, white gold earrings and pendants may not need replating for an extended period, especially if they are worn less frequently. Laings offers replating within our Jewellery Care service. Designed to bring your jewellery back to life and give you complete peace of mind, this service includes a deep clean, polish and replating to brighten your gold.

Do diamonds look better in white gold jewellery?

The radiance and allure of diamonds are unmatched in any metal, including white, yellow, and rose gold jewellery. White gold, with its stunning luminosity and opulent shimmer, provides a stunning backdrop to accentuate the beauty of diamonds, its white lustre ensuring a breathtaking display of elegance.