White Gold Engagement Rings

White gold is a lovely option if you prefer a bright, cool-toned precious metal. It's a gold alloy, rather than platinum, and many white-gold rings have a rhodium finish to give them their familiar bright appearance. We would check the finish and fineness of the particular design before choosing, especially if you're deciding between white gold and platinum. The two can look similar when new but have different maintenance needs.

Some white-gold rings benefit from occasional rhodium replating to maintain a bright white finish, depending on the alloy and the amount of wear. We'd suggest asking about the exact finish of your ring rather than assuming a fixed maintenance timetable. Gentle cleaning and regular checks of the centre setting are important too. If you'd like a different appearance later, a professional jeweller can advise on suitable refinishing.

White gold creates a cool frame around colourless diamonds and can highlight the contrast with warmer sapphires, rubies or coloured diamonds. We'd look closely at the metal surrounding the centre: the appearance of a broad bezel can differ considerably from fine claws. If you're comparing a white-gold ring with a platinum design, view them in the same lighting and consider not only the colour but how the finish will age.