Are you wondering How Much Is Platinum Compared To Gold? Platinum, often favored for its purity and durability, and gold, celebrated for its timeless allure and investment value, both stand out in the precious metals market. At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we provide a detailed comparison of platinum and gold, examining their costs, properties, and applications to assist you in making well-informed decisions. Explore the differences between these precious metals and discover which option best suits your needs and preferences by understanding their unique attributes.
1. Understanding Platinum
Platinum is a naturally occurring white metal celebrated for its purity, typically used in jewelry in a nearly pure form (95-98%). Platinum maintains its appearance for many years with proper care. It’s important to note that platinum is denser and heavier than gold, meaning that an item made of platinum will weigh more than the same item made of gold.
How much does platinum cost? Platinum engagement ring settings range in price from approximately $300 for a simple solitaire to $3,000 for an intricate vintage setting. The price relies on factors such as the ring style, amount of platinum used and the vendor from which you buy the ring.
1.1. Pros of Platinum
- Hypoallergenic: Platinum is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin, as it rarely causes allergic reactions.
- Rarity: Platinum is rarer than gold, making it a more exclusive and sought-after material.
- Symbol of Prestige: Platinum is often associated with prestige, similar to “platinum” credit cards that offer more privileges than “gold” cards.
- Durability: Platinum is heavier and more durable than white gold, providing a robust setting for jewelry.
- Aesthetic: Platinum tends to look best with fair and rosy skin tones, enhancing the wearer’s complexion.
- Investment: Platinum is a good investment.
1.2. Cons of Platinum
- Cost: Platinum is significantly more expensive than white gold, even though they appear nearly identical.
- Susceptibility to Scratches: Platinum can get scratched and dull over time, requiring regular maintenance.
- Maintenance: Platinum requires cleaning and polishing every few years, which can strip away some of the metal.
2. Understanding White Gold
White gold is an alloy composed of pure gold and durable metals such as zinc, nickel, and copper, which strengthen it and give it its whiter color. White gold rings are usually made with either 14K or 18K gold. 14 karat is 58.3% gold and 18 karat is 75% gold. Because gold is naturally yellow, white gold gets its color from the combination of alloy metals and a rhodium plating. Over time, the rhodium plating can wear away, revealing a slightly yellow hue.
3. Platinum vs. White Gold: Key Differences
While the key differences between these two precious metals are composition and price, they look nearly identical to the naked eye. COMPARE.EDU.VN helps you to understand those differences.
For example, compare these two complete rings from James Allen’s inspiration gallery. Can you tell the difference between this white gold setting from James Allen and this platinum ring also from James Allen?
To help you learn more about the differences between platinum and white gold, we’ve outlined the main things you should know regarding cost, composition, color, and care.
3.1. Platinum vs. White Gold Price
The main difference between white gold and platinum is found in the higher price of platinum, which is roughly 40-50% more expensive. Though similar in price per gram, more platinum is required to make a ring because it is denser. Platinum rings end up being considerably more expensive than white gold rings.
| Metal | Price/Gr | Price/Oz |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum | $32.60 | $1,014.10 |
| 14K Gold | $34.17 | $1,145.70 |
| 18K Gold | $44.35 | $1,441.43 |
White Gold Price vs Platinum Price Chart 3/30/2022
For example, here is a stunning halo setting for $1,535 from Blue Nile in white gold. The platinum version of the ring costs $400 more, which eats into your budget for the center diamond. Even this white gold setting with 0.9 Carat Round Cut Diamond from James Allen costs 44% less than the setting on this 0.9 Carat Round Cut in a platinum ring. While you can spend more by choosing platinum, your money is better spent on an ideal diamond cut or increased carat weight. To learn more about the price differences between white gold and platinum, contact us.
3.2. Platinum vs. White Gold Composition
18 Karat and 14 Karat gold jewelry is made primarily of gold along with a mix of durable metals like nickel, zinc, copper and a rhodium plating—as gold by itself is relatively soft. 18 Karat is 75% gold, while 14 Karat is 58.3% gold.
Platinum used in jewelry, on the other hand, is more pure—typically between 95-98% platinum—with the remaining percentage rhodium and silver. Stronger and more durable than gold, platinum is the heaviest and densest precious metal. As you can see, gold used in jewelry depends on a higher percentage of alloys and rhodium for its strength and durability. If you’re still unsure about the differences in composition between gold vs platinum, our experts can help.
Read what metal GIA recommends for specific diamond colors.
3.3. Platinum vs. White Gold Color and Care
The difference in color between platinum and white gold is unnoticeable to the naked eye, like this white gold cushion cut diamond ring from James Allen and this platinum cushion cut ring also from James Allen. Alternatively, yellow and rose gold show distinct colors when compared to platinum and white gold.
Platinum scratches more easily than 18 Karat or 14 Karat gold. Upkeep for platinum tends to be higher, because it must be cleaned and polished regularly to maintain its smooth appearance. Gold will need to be re-polished and re-plated, but generally not as often as platinum. A lot of celebrities opt for white metal engagement rings as they look classy and timeless.
4. Is Platinum Better Than Gold?
No, platinum is not better than gold, as platinum looks nearly identical to white gold but costs significantly more. Both 14K and 18K white gold are durable enough for everyday wear, so platinum jewelry isn’t necessary. Platinum also scratches more easily and requires more maintenance. White gold is a beautiful metal mixture with a classic appearance. White gold costs less than platinum and is a stunning choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
According to the 2022 Platinum Jewellery Business Review, Platinum Jewellery Sales from StrategicPartners in the US, 2021 was up between 28%-42% compared to the previous year.
| Platinum | Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 95-98% platinumMixed with other metals like copper and palladium | 18 Karat is 75% gold14 Karat is 58.3% goldMixed with other metals like nickel and copper |
| Color | White, lustrous surface | White, lustrous surface |
| Price | 40-50% more expensive than gold | More affordable than platinum |
| Durability | More durable than gold | Durable enough for everyday wear |
| Beauty | Stunning, classic jewelry | Stunning, classic jewelry |
| Maintenance | Needs to be repolished and replated more frequently than gold | Needs to be dipped every few years to retain its color and luster |
5. Exploring Three Types Of Gold
When reviewing gold settings, you’ll notice there are three options: white gold, rose gold and yellow gold. While similar, they differ primarily in their color and composition. Selecting the type of gold for your ring should be based on personal preference, although composition or price could play a small role in your decision. COMPARE.EDU.VN can help you evaluate your option.
5.1. White Gold
White Gold Six Prong Knife Edge Solitaire Setting – the classic choice.
White gold is made of a mixture of pure gold and white metals such as nickel, silver and palladium, usually with a rhodium coating. White gold is real but it’s not made entirely of gold. The other metals help to strengthen the gold and increase its durability for jewelry. The value of white gold depends on the karat (14K vs 18K) and how much metal was used to make the ring. The price of white gold rings ranges from $180 for a simple solitaire to $2,500 for an intricate vintage ring setting. The cost depends on the vendor, the amount of white gold used and your ring’s design. If you’re reselling your setting, in general, you’ll get 50 cents for every dollar of scrap metal.
5.1.1. Pros of White Gold
- Affordability: More affordable than platinum.
- Popularity: Currently more popular than yellow gold.
- Durability: Alloyed with stronger metals than yellow gold, making it more durable and scratch-resistant.
- Aesthetic: Complements white diamonds better than yellow gold—according to some.
- Skin Tone: Complements fair or rosy skin tones.
5.1.2. Cons of White Gold
- Maintenance: Needs to be dipped every few years to retain its color and luster—and to replace the rhodium plating. This process is inexpensive and many jewelers offer the service for free.
- Allergies: Often has nickel mixed with it, which causes allergic reactions for some. In other words, white gold is not hypoallergenic unless mixed with alloy metals other than nickel.
5.2. Yellow Gold
Yellow Gold Flower Solitaire Setting – a beautiful choice for anyone.
Yellow gold is made of pure gold mixed with alloy metals such as copper and zinc.
The amount of pure gold in the jewelry depends on its karatage:
- 24 Karat: 99.9% Pure
- 22 Karat: 91.7% Pure
- 18 Karat: 75% Pure
- 14 Karat: 58.3% Pure
A higher karat amount means a purer gold content. However, this also means a less durable metal. For this reason, usually 14K or 18K gold is used to mount engagement and wedding rings.
5.2.1. Pros of Yellow Gold
- Hypoallergenic: The most hypoallergenic of all the three gold colors.
- Historical Significance: Historically the most popular metal used for wedding and engagement bands (and a symbol of success), and thus appropriate for vintage style settings.
- Purity: The purest color of all the golds.
- Maintenance: The easiest to maintain out of all three gold color types.
- Malleability: The most malleable and easiest for jewelers to manipulate.
- Skin Tone: A complement to olive and darker skin tones.
- Diamond Color Grade: Easily matched with diamonds of a lower diamond color grade.
5.2.2. Cons of Yellow Gold
- Maintenance: Should be polished and cleaned regularly.
- Durability: Is subject to dents and scratches.
5.3. White Gold vs. Yellow Gold
The main difference between white gold and yellow gold is the color. White gold is mixed with white metals like nickel, while yellow gold is mixed with yellow metals like copper. White gold has a lustrous white look and yellow gold has a luminous yellow tone. Some prefer the golden tone of yellow gold, while others prefer white gold. The color of gold you choose should be based on your personal preference.
There are a few other small differences between white gold and yellow gold. Yellow gold is more hypoallergenic than white gold and it’s easier to maintain. You may be able to reduce your diamond’s Color by a grade or two, because the diamond will still look white in relation to the yellow gold setting. White gold is slightly stronger than yellow gold, making it more durable.
The cost of white gold and yellow gold is relatively the same, as they’re both made of gold and other alloy metals. 14K gold costs less than 18K gold, no matter the color.
5.4. Rose Gold
Rose Gold Twisted Shank Solitaire Setting – unique design for a contemporary wearer.
Rose gold is made of pure gold mixed with copper and silver alloys. Rose gold is real but it’s not made entirely of gold. The copper and silver helps to strengthen it and give it its rose color. The more copper used, the redder the gold appears. A common mix—or alloy—for rose gold is 75% gold and 25% copper by mass (18K). Like white gold, rose gold is an alloy, so “pure rose gold” doesn’t exist for jewelry.
What does rose gold look like? Rose gold encompasses the whole family of red, rose and pink gold shades. It’s a lustrous pinkish metal, like in this rose gold halo engagement ring from James Allen.
Does rose gold tarnish? Rose gold doesn’t tarnish. But just like any color gold, rose gold jewelry needs to be polished and cleaned regularly.
5.4.1. Pros of Rose Gold
- Style: In style for both men’s and women’s rings.
- Romantic Appeal: Considered by many to be the most romantic metal due to its pinkish-red color.
- Affordability: Often more affordable than other metals because copper—the alloy used to make rose gold—costs less.
- Durability: Very durable due to the strength of copper—making rose gold tougher than yellow or white gold.
- Skin Tone: A complement to all skin tones.
5.4.2. Cons of Rose Gold
- Allergies: Can cause allergic reactions in some and is not a hypoallergenic metal.
- Availability: Is not as widely available as yellow and white gold, despite being in style.
To learn more about the differences between types of gold, contact us.
5.5. Pink Gold vs. Red Gold vs. Rose Gold
Pink gold, red gold and rose gold are nearly the same, with slight differences in composition and appearance. They all are made of 75% gold combined with copper and silver alloys. Jewelry vendors and goldsmiths may use the three gold names interchangeably, but rose gold is most common, especially for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. All three golds have a lustrous, pinkish tone, like in this rose gold hidden halo ring from Blue Nile.
Composition Differences of Pink Gold, Red Gold, Rose Gold
| 75% gold | 20% copper | 5% silver | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18K Red Gold | 75% gold | 25% copper | 0% silver |
| 18K Rose Gold | 75% gold | 22.25% copper | 2.75% silver |
The varying percentage of copper and silver indicates the gold’s color. For instance, the higher percentage of copper found in red gold makes it a slightly stronger rose color. The copper and silver alloys also strengthen the gold. Pure gold by itself isn’t strong enough to form jewelry that can be worn regularly.
6. FAQ: Platinum vs. Gold
- Is platinum more expensive than gold?
- Yes, platinum is generally more expensive than gold due to its rarity and higher density.
- Which is more durable, platinum or gold?
- Platinum is more durable than gold, making it less prone to wear and tear.
- Does platinum require more maintenance than gold?
- Platinum requires regular cleaning and polishing, while gold needs occasional replating to maintain its color.
- Are platinum and white gold visually different?
- To the naked eye, platinum and white gold appear very similar.
- Is white gold hypoallergenic?
- White gold may contain nickel, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Platinum is hypoallergenic.
- What are the best skin tones for platinum?
- Platinum tends to look best on fair and rosy skin tones.
- How does the composition of platinum and white gold differ?
- Platinum jewelry is typically 95-98% pure, while white gold is an alloy of gold and other metals like nickel and zinc.
- Which metal is better for engagement rings?
- Both platinum and white gold are popular choices for engagement rings, depending on budget and personal preference.
- Does rose gold tarnish?
- Rose gold does not tarnish but requires regular polishing to maintain its appearance.
- How does the karatage affect the price of gold?
- Higher karatage means a purer gold content, which increases the price, but it also makes the metal less durable.
7. Conclusion
While the metal you choose for your diamond ring is largely based on personal preference and style, it is helpful to consider the main differences in composition and price. COMPARE.EDU.VN is here to help.
White gold and platinum, for example, look identical to the naked eye, while platinum costs significantly more. We generally recommend spending more of your budget on the diamond than on a platinum setting.
Shop for diamond engagement rings here.
To put together the perfect ring, reach out to our experts who will help you find the highest quality diamonds along with a setting that will steal hearts and turn heads—all while staying in budget.
Choosing between platinum and gold (including white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold) requires careful consideration of factors like cost, durability, appearance, and maintenance. Platinum offers purity and durability but comes at a higher price. Gold provides a range of colors and is more affordable but may require more upkeep.
To make an informed decision, visit COMPARE.EDU.VN, where you can compare various precious metals and find the perfect choice for your needs. Explore our detailed comparisons and make a decision that suits your style and budget.
Ready to make a choice? Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN today to explore detailed comparisons and make an informed decision.
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