White gold is a sought-after precious metal used in jewelry making. It’s created by combining pure gold with other metals, specifically nickel, palladium, or zinc. The resulting alloy is then given a rhodium plating to give it a white color. However, not all white golds are made equal. Some have higher karats than others, which affect their purity and value.
This guide will help you discover the purest form of white gold and understand the different karat levels available.
Understanding Karat
To determine the purity of any gold alloy, jewelers use the karat system. This system measures how much gold is present in the alloy relative to other metals. For instance, 24-karat gold is pure gold, while 14-karat gold contains only 58.3% of gold and 41.7% of other metals.
The Highest Karat of White Gold
The highest karat of white gold is 21k. It’s made of 87.5% pure gold and 12.5% other metal alloys. With this high level of purity, 21k white gold has a warm, yellowish hue that resembles traditional yellow gold. It’s less common than lower karat levels, but it’s ideal for luxury jewelry pieces such as engagement rings and wedding bands.
Other Karat Levels of White Gold
1. 18k White Gold
This type of white gold contains 75% pure gold and 25% other metal alloys. Its higher gold content makes it more valuable and harder than 14k white gold, but it still retains some of the yellow hues associated with higher karat levels. Unlike 21k white gold, 18k white gold is a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands.
2. 14k White Gold
14k white gold is the most commonly used type of white gold in jewelry making. It contains 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% other metal alloys, making it more durable than higher karat levels. Its strength and resistance to scratches make it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. However, its yellowish hue may not be appealing to some people.
3. 10k White Gold
The least expensive type of white gold is 10k white gold. It contains 41.7% pure gold and 58.3% other metal alloys, making it the most durable of all white gold types. It’s also very white in color, with no yellow hues. However, it’s not suitable for people with sensitive skin since it contains high amounts of nickel, which can cause an allergic reaction.
Choosing the Right Karat Level of White Gold
Choosing the right karat level of white gold depends on various factors: your budget, style preference, and skin sensitivity. Here are some things to consider:
1. Budget
The higher the karat level of white gold, the more expensive it is. If you’re working on a tight budget, consider buying 10k or 14k white gold since they’re more affordable than higher karat levels. However, keep in mind that 10k white gold may not be suitable for sensitive skin.
2. Style Preference
Karat levels of white gold have different color tones. For instance, 21k white gold has a warm, yellowish tone, while 10k white gold is very white. Choose a karat level that best matches your style preference.
3. Skin Sensitivity
People with skin sensitivities should avoid wearing nickel-containing jewelry. Opt for 18k or 21k white gold since they contain less nickel than lower karat levels.
Caring for White Gold Jewelry
White gold jewelry requires proper care to maintain its luster and sheen. Here are some tips on how to care for your white gold jewelry:
- Store it in a dry place, away from moisture and humidity.
- Remove your white gold jewelry when swimming or doing household chores since it can be damaged by chemicals.
- Clean your white gold jewelry regularly using a soft-bristled brush, mild detergent, and warm water.
- Have your white gold jewelry polished and cleaned professionally every two years to keep it looking its best.
Conclusion
White gold is a popular precious metal used in jewelry making. It comes in different karat levels, with 21k being the purest form of white gold. Other karat levels include 18k, 14k, and 10k, each with varying levels of purity and durability. When choosing the right karat level of white gold, consider your budget, style preference, and skin sensitivity. Proper care of your white gold jewelry will ensure it maintains its luster and sheen for years to come.