When one wishes to create 18k white gold, it is necessary to use fine gold, naturally yellow. The difficulty is to minimize this color, to erase it. The choice of metals that will make up the alloy for gold is therefore essential.
In classic white gold, fine gold is therefore mixed with silver, copper and sometimes nickel in a small percentage. Nevertheless, this alloy “white” rendering keeps a shine a little cold yellow. That is why it is systematically treated thanks to a rhodium to make it whiter. When it comes to israeli designer jewelry you can get the best choices.
More recently, jewelers have begun to turn to an alloy of fine gold, copper and silver by adding palladium. This white gold is therefore palladium. Main advantage of this new alloy, it does not require rhodium, a simple polishing without chemical agents enough to make it white (or very slightly gray) and very bright. It is minimal maintenance for maximum effect.
Rhodiage
By affixing it finely on a base of already white gold, the jewel remains resistant while having the very clear and luminous rendering desired. Only disadvantage, the film of rhodium is fine and only deposited. In fact, over time and friction, this film will fade. Until disappear. It is therefore necessary to repeat the operation several times during the life of the jewel. Generally, a jewel very exposed to friction (like a ring for example) and carried very regularly, can ask to be rhodiumed every year. An interview to take into account when choosing your jewelry because it has a cost: between 30 and 60 euros according to professionals.
Gold Recycled vs. Fairmined Gold?
A beautiful jewel is good and when it is as beautiful inside as outside it is even better. Gold is a metal that attracts all desires at any price. The excesses of conventional gold are numerous: child labor, ecological disaster … That’s why other alternatives have emerged to offer more responsible and ethical gold, more “clean” in short. For your jewelry Bridal, we made the choice of recycled gold.
And the others?
Platinum: good plan?
Used only since the 19th century for jewelry making, platinum has seduced jewelry lovers for decades and still holds an important aura today. This alloy has the advantage of having a perfect white luster, and this, without particular maintenance which makes him a very good alternative to classic white gold.
Platinum is usually sold more expensive than 18k white gold (rhodium or palladium) because of its density (heavier than gold) and its greater complexity in shaping. In addition, this precious metal is a bit softer than 18k gold. It will move more in time, be it minimal deformation or wear. Your platinum jewelry will therefore require special attention from you. Think about it when you’re about to invest.
Palladium?
Known for its price records, palladium is also used in jewelry for exceptional trimmings. Pretty close platinum, it is less dense than the latter, so equivalent model of jewelry, it will take less palladium than platinum to make the same piece.
In addition it is naturally silver, no need for treatment to keep its natural shine. But the benefits of palladium stop here. Not very fluid, it is difficult to work for thin and narrow parts. In addition, palladium is made of certain volatile chemical elements that will vaporize under the effect of heat making your jewel, ultimately, porous.