HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT GOLD FOR YOUR STYLE
In the 1980’s, yellow gold engagement rings and wedding bands were the most prominent. Men and women flocked to buy yellow gold rings and white gold, as well as platinum, was largely forgotten. In the 1990’s, the trends began to change again as men and women began to buy platinum and white gold rings. Throughout the past twenty years, platinum and white gold have become the most prominent metal for engagement rings. Most jewelry stores and designers use platinum and white gold in their sample pieces and display the same pictures on their websites. But despite white gold’s popularity, other color metals for engagement rings have begun to emerge as well.
Nearly five years ago, rose gold was listed as an “emerging trend” in fashion. Seemingly overnight, rose gold watches, earrings, and necklaces began to appear in stores. However, it didn’t stop there. Rose gold has become a popular color in home décor. Unsurprisingly, rose gold also infiltrated the world of engagement rings. Even though white gold is still considered the “standard” metal, rose gold has become increasing popular and paved the way for a resurgence of different metal colors in engagement rings.
If you’re on the fence about which metal is right for you, you’re in luck. With Mark Schneider Design, all of the engagement rings can be created in the color of your choice. If you fall in love with a design but want it in a different metal color, then it’s a simple fix. In order to help you decide which gold is best for your style, we’ve created the ultimate guide to different gold colors.
White Gold vs. Platinum
To the naked eye, white gold and platinum look exactly the same. Both metals sparkle and appear silver in color. However, there are two prominent differences between the two metals: cost and natural color. Unlike white gold, platinum is naturally white. In order for white gold to appear white like platinum, it is mixed with another metal (known as an alloy) and a rhodium plating is applied to the metal. Over time, it is possible for the plating to wear off and for the golden hue to return. If you buy your ring from a designer like Mark Schneider, the return of the gold color isn’t a big concern because it can be polished and re-plated. But if you choose to buy from a different store, it’s important to ask about their policy regarding white gold. Because platinum is naturally white, it will never change colors. Of course, the other big difference between white gold and platinum is that platinum is heavier and more expensive. Platinum is denser and as a result, more of it is required to make a ring. If you’re unsure about which metal is right for you and your budget, it’s best to meet with your jeweler and have an honest discussion about which metal would be best.