The difference between platinum and white gold

Platinum and white gold are both common precious metals in life, and many people regard them as the same. In fact, platinum and white gold are two different substances. There are fundamental differences between them, but many businesses confuse the concepts of these two precious metals in pursuit of profits and sell white gold as platinum. This practice often harms the interests of consumers. So what are the differences between platinum and white gold?

The difference between platinum and white gold

1. Chemical properties

There are obvious differences in the chemical properties of platinum and white gold. Platinum is a very precious metal. Its chemical properties are more stable than gold, and its market price should be much higher than gold. It is the main raw material for making high-end jewelry, but white gold is a mixture of gold and other small amounts of metal substances. The highest purity of platinum seen on the market can only reach 75%.

2. Different ingredients

The composition of platinum and white gold is also different. The substance contained in platinum is mainly the metal platinum, which has a very high purity of more than 95%. It will not fade or change color even if stored for a long time, and it can maintain its original luster over time, and can emit an attractive light similar to that of diamonds. However, the composition of white gold is more complicated. In addition to gold, it also contains a variety of metal compounds. Silver, copper, and nickel are the most important substances in platinum.

3. Economic Value

There is also a clear difference in economic value between platinum and white gold. Platinum is the most precious metal in the world so far. Its output is very small. It is said that its output is only 1/30 of that of gold. Moreover, the melting point of this metal is high. It takes ten tons of ore to purify one ounce of platinum. Its quality and rarity determine that its economic value in the market is particularly high. Its selling price is much higher than that of gold. Platinum is a more common metal substance in the market. Its market price should be much lower than that of gold.

4. Jewelry markings are different

Platinum and white gold are both common raw materials for making precious jewelry. Jewelry made with platinum as the main raw material is marked with a number starting with P. If it is P950, it means that its platinum content is as high as 950‰. After platinum is made into jewelry, the mark will be marked with K. If it is marked 18K, it means that the jewelry is made of white gold.