What You Need to Know about White Gold Diamond Rings
Gold is one of the most precious metals. Its yellow color is its distinctive trademark. Modern jewelry manufacturer, however, could turn gold into several colors from red to rose to light yellow even green and of course, white gold.
White gold diamond rings are so-called because it is not totally gold and its color is white instead of the usual yellowish tint gold is know for. White gold diamond rings are composed of gold and alloys such as white metals such as nickel, silver and palladium.
White gold diamond rings just like yellow gold are measured in karat with a symbol k. The finest white gold diamond rings have 17 karat to 21 karat gold.
Nickel Content of White Gold Diamond Rings
Nickel used to be the main alloy used in white gold diamond rings. But recently a number of women reported to have allergic reactions to nickel. Some 12-15% of female population is affected by nickel allergies. That is why; it has been discontinued in some parts of Europe.
European Union countries under the European Union Nickel Directive which was promulgated January 20, 2000 reduces the nickel content in jewelry and other items that come in contact with the human skin. Some jewelry manufacturers discontinue using nickel as gold alloy these days.
In EU nickel white golds are being replaced by palladium white golds. Some lowered the quantity of nickel in their alloys but the lower nickel content however does not guarantee that it will not cause allergic reaction to the wearer.
The US does not have such strict regulations on nickel. All it requires is the label be marked 'non-allergenic' or 'nickel free'. Japan and China adopted similar regulations on nickel as the EU countries.
Rhodium Coating in White Golds
Since white gold is harder and more durable than yellow gold, it is ideal for diamond and other gemstone settings. White gold diamond rings are gaining popularity among the younger population.
White gold diamond rings are often coated with very thin layer of Rhodium coating. A lot of jeweler manufacturers prefer using Rhodium because it shares a lot of similar characteristics with platinum particularly its bright white color. Rhodium plating is the most widely used coating in the world to make white gold bracelets look whiter and shiner.
Rhodium however fades after a couple of years. It maybe white and hard but it wears out to reveal the real white gold diamond ring color. The rhodium coating often lasts for three years. To make the white gold diamond rings look brand new, they should be re-plated with Rhodium every 12 to 18 months. Most local jewelers offer this service at affordable prices.
White gold diamond rings are gaining a lot of popularity nowadays. White gold bracelets, nowadays, come in all shapes, designs and prices that fit any occasion.
