Gold and platinum are the two most commonly used metals for engagement and wedding rings. Both metals are unique, yet similar in several ways. Let’s look at how gold and platinum compare in appearance, cost, durability, and comfort.

Mumbai, Maharashtra -- (SBWire) -- 09/19/2014 --Gold vs Platinum Appearance

The main distinguishing physical characteristic between gold and platinum is color. While platinum is naturally white, gold is naturally yellow. If one want a ring, then gold (also termed yellow gold) is the best option. However, if one want a white ring, one can opt for platinum or gold.

White gold rings are composed of gold, alloys, and a rhodium plating which gives it a white look that’s very similar to platinum. 14k white gold and 14k yellow gold have the same gold content and purity (58.5% gold), but the alloys in white gold (and the rhodium plating) make it appear white, while the alloys in yellow gold do not.

While white gold looks very similar to platinum, over time the the rhodium plating in white gold will wear off and fade to a yellowish tinge. Once one re-polish and re-plate the white gold ring, it will look white again. Platinum, which is naturally white, will not fade to yellow. White gold turning yellow is a huge problem, and that’s why we decided to give all our ethical rings a lifetime warranty that covers re-polishing and re-plating, so this should not be a concern if one go with us.

While gold and platinum are similar in price per gram, platinum is more dense and so more of it is required to make a ring. Additionally, platinum rings are usually 95% pure platinum, while 14k gold is only 58.5% gold (18k gold is 75% gold). Therefore, platinum rings are more expensive.

Gold vs Platinum Durability

Platinum is Stronger and More Durable

Though both gold and platinum are strong and durable precious metals, platinum is the stronger and more durable of the two. For example, the prongs holding the center stone of a platinum engagement ring are less likely to break then those of a gold engagement ring.

Platinum Scratches Easier than 14k Gold

Despite being stronger and more durable, platinum is a softer metal than 14k gold. This means it will get scratched a little easier than 14k gold would.

However, an important thing to note is when gold is scratched, the gold is lost and it looks like a scratch. When platinum is scratched, the platinum gets moved from one place on the ring to another, and it develops something called a patina finish (which looks like an antique or worn ring). A lot of people love and desire the patina finish.

The good thing is that re-polishing the ring will help restore the ring to near its original look for both platinum and gold. All Do Amore Rings include free lifetime polishing so if one purchase the ring from us, don’t worry, one’re in great hands.

Platinum is Truly White

As mentioned above, platinum will always stay white but white gold needs to be re-polished and re-plated occasionally to avoid a yellow hue. This yellow hue usually appears several months to several years after polishings, depending on how much wear and tear the ring faces. Since all Do
Amore rings come with free lifetime warranties that cover this, don’t worry if one’re getting the ring from
us.

When Choosing Between 14k and 18k, Pick 14k

If one decide to go with gold, make sure one pick 14k gold and not 18k gold. While 18k gold is more valuable, it is softer and will scratch easier than 14k gold will. 14k gold is cheaper,
and more scratch resistant! Why wouldn’t one pick it?

Gold vs Platinum Comfort

Because platinum is more dense than gold, platinum rings will be heavier than gold as well. Some prefer the heavier weight, but some find the lightness of gold rings to be more comfortable. It is really up to each individual person.

One option for people seeking a comfortable ring it is to opt for one with a comfortable design, like this men’s fingerprint wedding band.

One more benefit of platinum is that it is hypoallergenic. While gold rings do not create an allergy issue for most people, some can develop an allergic reaction from the nickel alloy used in gold rings.

Palladium as an alternative to Gold and Platinum

For those wanting the price of a gold ring, with some of the characteristics of platinum, palladium may be a great alternative to consider. Palladium is naturally white in color, like platinum, but is less costly than platinum and closer in price to 14k gold rings. It is also known to be hypoallergenic like platinum. We are able to manufacturer all of our rings in palladium.

I’m having my Ring Engraved, should I choose Gold, Palladium or Platinum?

Another common question we get is what metal choice to pick if getting a ring engraved. The answer is, it doesn’t matter! Gold, palladium, and platinum can all be engraved without any issue. We engrave all of our rings for free so make sure one think of something good, and if one need help, here is a list of the best ring engraving ideas.

Final Thoughts and Summary on Gold vs Platinum

If one still can’t decide between gold and platinum, don’t worry. If one have the budget, go for platinum. If one don’t, then gold (or palladium) is still a very precious metals and is an excellent choice. At the end of the day, all rings require some minimal upkeep and maintenance so make sure one purchase the rings from a company that has a lifetime warranty and will re-polish, clean, and re-plate the rings for free for life, like we do. If one have any questions on the rings metal choice, please don’t hesitate to contact me and ask the question. My name is Krish and one’re welcome to call and ask for me personally. I’d love to help answer any questions one have about gold vs platinum!

The retail forecast for 2014 looks very promising and there seems to bean opportunity to take this further. "Firstly, we have been very successful at utilising digital media and integrating marketing programmes that have positioned it well amongst the younger audience, making it emotionally significant for them. Once the knowledge of the value of platinum deepens, the demand will increase. Platinum Day of Love couple bands is the volume driver. Men's jewellery is a nascent category and it delivered very strong figures - some retailers reported doubling their sales. Also many have shown interest in stocking heavier items in terms of jewellery and PGI is evaluating the next segment of growth for the market,"said Vaishali Banerjee, Country Manager India, PGI.

About DITI Platinum and Gold Jewellery Online
DITI, a collection that redefines its meaning 'bond'. Inspired by 'Mother Nature' to which every human is bound. Every piece of Diti precious jewellery is bonding traditions with contemporary style, aiming to bring out your individuality. With Diti, a part of Shrenuj & Company Limited, we continue these relations constantly depicting new trends and living up to the objective of "Customer Satisfaction". Ever since its foundation almost 107 years ago, Shrenuj is truly committed to its fundamentals objective of 'Customer Satisfaction'. Impeccable quality, innovative designing and fine craftsmanship makes Shrenuj a name to reckon with the international diamond and jewellery trade. Now with the launch of DITI, we would like to offer our services to even domestic markets. The Shrenuj presence on the diamond scene is reflected in our position as a major sight holder of Diamond Trading Corporation. (London Based Central Selling Organisation). Shrenuj proudly calls itself as one of the Authorized manufacturers of Platinum Jewellery conferred upon by the Platinum Guild International (PGI). The group has also been presented with many Awards for excellence in the sales http://www.ditijewellery.com/