Though the ring’s center stone takes the spotlight, the metal that holds it and is used for the band heavily matters, too. If you can’t decide which one you should buy — a gold vs platinum engagement ring — use this quick guide as your reference.
Which Metal Should You Choose For Your Engagement Ring?
Just hearing the word “gold” already evokes luxury. It’s no wonder it’s the classic option for engagement and wedding rings.
This metal has a natural yellow, as seen in yellow gold rings. So if you want that golden glow on your ring finger, it’s the best choice.
But if you want “gold” as metal but another hue, know that it can be mixed with other elements to get rose gold (which has silver, copper, and gold) or white gold (nickel, zinc, copper, and gold with rhodium plating).
Platinum ring, on the other hand, has a natural white color. It’s a relatively scarce metal that you might want to put on your finger if you want something unique — or something rare that will symbolize the rare kind of love you found in your partner.
Continue scrolling through to learn more about their key differences, pros, and cons.
Gold vs. Platinum Engagement Ring: What’s The Difference?
Both gold and platinum metals are popular in the world of jewelry. Still deciding if you’ll have platinum vs. gold engagement rings? Take a look at what sets them apart from each other:
Appearance
Yellow and rose gold will have different appearances because of their color. But white gold and platinum will almost look the same.
Over time, however, white gold’s color will fade away and bring out some yellowish hints. It results from the rhodium plating (responsible for its white color) wearing out. The good news is that many reputable jewelers, such as James Allen offer re-plating to bring your white gold’s color to its original state.
Price
Gold vs. platinum price is another factor to consider when choosing between the two ring metal options.
Platinum is a rarer metal than gold; hence, it’s generally more expensive and valuable.
Moreover, a platinum ring will have 95% pure platinum, while an 18k gold ring will only have 75% gold (about 59% gold for 14k gold rings). Because platinum rings contain more of its main metal than gold rings, the price difference further widens.
For instance, this platinum ring from Blue Nile comes at $4,900. If you choose 14k white gold as your metal, the price will go down to $3,900.
Nonetheless, keep in mind that the final price of each ring is still anchored in the law of supply and demand. You may find that the gap between their prices sometimes could be bigger or smaller.
Weight
Platinum is not only rarer than gold, but it’s also denser. And, as stated, platinum rings have more pure platinum than gold rings have more pure gold. As a result, the former will be about twice as heavy as the former.
The platinum ring’s being heavier further adds to its premium, opulent feel.
Durability
Thanks to platinum’s extreme density, it’s more durable than gold (though both metals are strong and can stand up to wear and tear better than other metals).
But note that platinum is a softer metal, so it can be more prone to scratches than 14k gold (gold rings with higher karat also tend to be soft and scratch-prone).
Versatility
Platinum is less malleable, which means it’s harder to hammer or press. Looking for platinum rings with softer gemstones (such as emeralds) can be challenging. If a jeweler exerts more force to craft a setting that holds the softer stones, it can also damage the stones.
Apart from the narrowed-down choice of gems, you will also be limited by the color of the metal. If you want a ring that’s not white, you can opt for the traditional yellow gold ring or the dreamy rose gold ring. Either option, you can find a wide range of those in renowned jewelry shops like Clean Origin and Brilliant Earth.
Comfort
Jewelry pieces — especially rings — aren’t just about the look. You also have to take into account their comfort.
You must opt for hypoallergenic metals like platinum if you have sensitive skin. As for gold rings, yellow gold is the most suitable choice. It’s best to avoid rose gold, which isn’t hypoallergenic because it has a copper component.
Maintenance
Because you’ll wear your engagement ring almost daily, it’s inevitable to undergo wear and tear. So apart from durability, you must also consider ease of maintenance.
Since platinum engagement rings are more durable, they are less likely to be reshaped or have their prongs re-tipped. But as they’re also more prone to scratches, you will still need to have them repolished every few years.
Gold rings require relatively higher maintenance, especially white gold rings. As mentioned, its plating will start to fade, and you will need a jeweler to repolish them.
As with any other piece of jewelry you own, the best thing to do is wear gold or platinum rings with care and caution. If you do activities that might damage the ring (e.g., you will go to the gym or clean your home), you should take it off your finger first.
Pros and Cons Of Platinum Engagement Ring
Here are the upsides and downsides of having platinum as the metal of your engagement ring.
Pros
- It’s naturally white and won’t have a tinge of yellow over time
- It can complement various gemstone colors
- It’s easy to maintain
- It’s hypoallergenic
- Its rarity makes it highly valuable
Cons
- It’s pricier
- It’s heavier on the finger
- It’s less malleable, and a bit softer than 14k gold rings
- It scratches easier
Pros and Cons Of Gold Engagement Ring
If you’re choosing between a gold vs platinum engagement ring, here are the pros and cons of various gold engagement rings.
Yellow Gold
Pros
- It has a classic and timeless look and has the purest color of all gold metals
- It’s easier to manipulate. Hence, they work well with intricate settings
- It’s easier to resize, repair, and maintain
- It’s the most hypoallergenic among the three
Cons
- It’s prone to scratches and dents
- Some hues of yellow gold are hard to complement, aesthetic-wise
- Other metals in its alloy can corrode and leave a dark mark on the finger
White Gold
Pros
- It has an elegant silver-white sheen and a modern appeal
- It’s more affordable than platinum if you want something white
- It pairs well with cool-toned gemstones like blue sapphires, emeralds, and colorless diamonds
- It complements many skin tones
Cons
- It’s less durable
- You need to re-plate it every few years to bring back its luster and white color
- Its nickel component can trigger an allergic reaction
Rose Gold
Pros
- It has a unique, dreamy, and romantic aesthetic
- It’s more durable than white or yellow gold
- It looks good in several skin tones
- It’s low maintenance (like yellow gold, it doesn’t require rhodium plating)
Cons
- It’s not hypoallergenic because of its copper content
- Its pink color will fade over time
- It’s relatively more difficult to find than yellow or white gold
