White gold and silver: how to tell them apart?
In the world of fine jewelry, white gold and silver are often confused due to their similar appearance. However, behind this visual similarity lie substantial differences in terms of composition, value, durability, and care. In this article by Gioiello Italiano , we explain how to recognize and distinguish these two precious metals, to help you make an informed choice of the perfect piece of jewelry.
What is white gold?
White gold is an alloy composed primarily of pure gold (yellow in its natural state) mixed with white metals such as palladium, silver, or nickel, and then coated with rhodium to achieve a shiny, durable finish. This plating not only enhances the color but also protects the jewelry from scratches and tarnishing.
Characteristics of white gold :
- More expensive than silver
- Increased wear resistance
- Shiny and cold appearance, similar to platinum
- Ideal for engagement rings and formal jewelry
- It needs to be rhodium plated periodically to maintain its shine.
What is silver?
Sterling silver (925) is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and the remaining 7.5% other metals (usually copper), to improve its hardness. It is a noble material, but softer and more prone to oxidation than white gold.
Characteristics of silver :
- More affordable
- Slightly warmer and less brilliant color than rhodium-plated white gold
- Requires more frequent cleaning and maintenance to prevent blackening
- Great choice for everyday jewelry and contemporary designs
How to distinguish them visually?
It's not always easy, but there are some clues:
- Hallmarking : White gold is stamped with “750” or “18K,” while silver often has “925.”
- Brilliance : Rhodium-plated white gold has a more intense and "cooler" shine than silver.
- Weight : White gold generally feels heavier to the touch.
- Price : If the jewel is very inexpensive, it is almost certainly silver (or plated).
Gioiello Italiano offers 14K white gold collections with timeless designs, perfect for every taste and need - white gold is the ideal choice.
