Guide
Platinum and gold
How the metals we work in compare for color, strength, weight, and care, so you can choose the right one for a ring you'll wear every day or a piece you'll wear now and then.
At a glance
The metals we work in
- Platinum
- Naturally white, dense, and gentle on sensitive skin. Scratches move the metal rather than removing it
- 18 karat gold
- 75 percent gold, with the richest color. A little softer than 14 karat
- 14 karat gold
- 58.5 percent gold. Harder wearing, and the most popular choice for rings
- 10 karat gold
- About 42 percent gold. The hardest and the most affordable
- Silver
- Sterling silver for fashion pieces and prototypes. Softer, and it tarnishes
Colors of gold
Yellow, white, and rose
- Yellow gold
- Gold mixed with silver and copper. Warm and classic
- White gold
- Gold mixed with white metals, then plated in rhodium for a bright white. The plating wears and can be renewed
- Rose gold
- Gold mixed with more copper for a soft pink that suits every skin tone
Choosing
Which metal for which piece
- Engagement rings
- Platinum or 14 karat gold for daily wear. Match the wedding band so they wear evenly
- Men's bands
- Platinum for weight, or 14 karat gold for a lighter feel
- Chains and bracelets
- 14 karat gold balances color and strength
- Sensitive skin
- Platinum or 18 karat gold
Why does my white gold ring look yellow?
The rhodium plating has worn through to the gold underneath. Replating brings back the bright white.
Is platinum worth the extra cost?
If you want a naturally white metal that never needs plating and feels substantial, yes. 14 karat white gold looks the same when freshly plated.
Can I mix metals?
Yes, but metals of different hardness rub against each other. If you wear a mixed set every day, check it now and then.
Guides
Keep learning
Settings and ring anatomy
Prongs, bezels, pavé, and every part of a ring.
Read
Matching your wedding band
The band that suits each diamond shape.
Read
Birthstones
The stone for every month, and how to wear it.
Read
Ring size guide
Measure at home or print a sizer.
Read
Jewelry care
Cleaning and storing every kind of piece.
Read
Glossary
Every jewelry term, in plain words.
Read