24-Karat Gold or Pure Platinum? How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Ring
Picking out a wedding ring is a hugely significant and memorable step in any happy couple's relationship. On the other hand, deciding which ring to commit to can be a challenging process.
With many stunning designs to choose from, it's easy to use your judgement and base your decision simply on how it looks. The truth is that the materials for rings can vary a lot in appearance, calibre, and quality. This means you're best off doing some homework on the topic before making such a leap.
Choosing the type of metal used for your wedding band is more important than with regular jewellery. Often overlooked, there's a big difference between platinum and white gold rings, even though they look very similar.
If you're unsure which one to choose, continue reading this handy guide. We discuss platinum vs white gold wedding rings. We’ll delve into everything, including their pros and cons, through how well they'll fare in the long run.
What is a platinum ring?
When discussing wedding bands, metals form the foundation for making the pieces. Platinum is a naturally white metal that is both harder to find and more durable than gold. It's used in a much purer form than white gold (999 pure platinum), which is why it's also typically more expensive.
The durability of platinum is one of the many reasons it's a popular choice for wedding rings. This is based primarily on the common belief that it is entirely scratch-proof. While this is technically true, it doesn't mean your ring will be completely free of blemishes throughout its lifetime.
Platinum wedding rings tend to develop ridging over time, which is relative to how often they are worn. This ridging is, however, completely natural and isn't seen as a negative thing. Many people embrace this antique look that it provides a ring, affectionately dubbing it the “patina of age”.
This patina effect is caused by the metal moving from one place to another and is more likely to occur if the ring is worn every day – as a wedding ring usually is. Instead of being considered an undesirable hindrance to the wearer, the patina effect should be appreciated as the ring grows and develops with age, much like the relationship it so proudly represents.
Benefits of platinum rings
Platinum boasts a wide range of benefits which set it apart from other precious metals, most notably, white gold.
First and foremost, platinum is extremely durable, being almost scratch-proof. Platinum’s molecular form means that it simply becomes displaced when scratched or bumped, resulting in its mass shifting around (not unlike putty) instead of scratching off.
This means wearers of platinum can rest assured that their precious platinum rings are not losing their mass (and, consequently, their worth) after encountering bumps or knicks.
Platinum is also a hypoallergenic metal, making it a fantastic choice for sensitive skin. Unlike white gold – which is commonly plated with rhodium – pure platinum jewellery is constructed only from platinum. The absence of other alloys in platinum jewellery means you can purchase it safely, knowing that there’s the smallest possible chance possible your jewellery will incur a reaction to your skin.
Finally, platinum is a very low-maintenance metal, keeping its shiny appearance for a more extended time and without much need for upkeep. This shining attribute will see you making fewer trips to a professional jeweller over the years, which will save you quite a bit of money.
What is a 24-karat gold ring?
The other option when considering metal wedding rings is, of course, 24-karat gold. Because 24-karat gold is the purest form of gold, it is also known as "fine gold." It's a soft metal, making it easier to scratch and dent than platinum.
That being said, 24-karat gold is a unique and beautiful metal many couples choose for their wedding rings. It has a warm, golden hue that complements any skin tone, and its softness makes it easy to mould into any shape or style.
Keep in mind that as stunning and unique as it is, 24-karat gold is a very soft metal and will require more care than a ring made of stronger metals. To avoid any nasty scratches on your gold jewellery, it’s important to take off your 24-karat gold wedding ring before doing any strenuous activity or household chores.
Benefits of 24-karat gold rings
As is the case with platinum, 24-karat gold is also a hypoallergenic metal, making it another great option for sensitive skin. It also requires less maintenance than other metals, requiring a polish every now and then (depending on how well it is cared for).
Gold’s most alluring attribute, however, has got to be its classic shiny and beautiful appearance. Jewellery made from 24-karat gold has a particular shine and colour to it that only pure gold can provide, making it unmistakable for any other precious metal.
Factors to consider when choosing the perfect wedding ring
On top of being one of the first decisions your marriage will be built on, choosing your wedding bands may be one of the most personal and connecting experiences you go through as a couple. For these reasons, you must get it right!
Budget
Considering you will ideally be wearing your wedding rings every day till death do you part, it is a good idea to choose something that you both really like and that is of high quality. With that in mind, your budget may be slightly higher than you think.
Since 24-karat gold is more expensive than platinum, if you’re on a budget, platinum could be the way to go. Plus, if you’re a little clumsy with your jewellery already, it may be best to invest in something slightly more durable, such as platinum.
Matching styles
Choosing your wedding band material is definitely something to do as a couple. Not only can you turn it into a pleasant bonding experience, but it also makes the whole concept of ‘getting married’ much more real.
Choosing matching bands is a great way to go about wedding ring shopping, whether it's the same material, ring, or shape.
Shape and size
For the groom, it is mainly about finding a shape, metal, and size he is both happy with and comfortable wearing. For the bride, however, it is important to ensure the ring will also complement her engagement ring.
A platinum band to go with a platinum engagement ring is always a good choice. However, matching it with a gold band can also look stunning if you have a gold engagement ring.
Due to their quality, the best ring metals (i.e. of the highest quality) are also the most comfortable. When sizing, ensure your rings are big enough not to be uncomfortable and small enough not to fall off. Remember that your fingers are usually a bit smaller when your hands are cold!
Regarding the ring weights, platinum is a heavier metal than gold. With that in mind, if you think you'd be uncomfortable with a heavier ring, 24-karat gold may be the way to go. Adversely, many people choose platinum over gold because of this added weight, which provides the jewellery with that extra sense of legitimacy and importance.
Lifestyle
Believe it or not; your lifestyle plays a part in which wedding bands you should choose. Do you work with your hands? Do you play a lot of sports? These are all factors to consider when choosing the right metal for your wedding rings.
If you're looking for something durable that will withstand a lot of everyday wear and tear, platinum is the way to go. If you’re a cautious and slightly less-active person and trust yourself not to damage your precious band, then 24-karat gold is the metal for you.
Which one is right for you?
Ultimately, the decision-making process regarding metals for wedding rings becomes personal. Whether you choose a platinum or white gold ring ultimately depends on your preference. As a potential buyer, you should always consider your budget, style, and how well you take care of your jewellery before making a decision.
Platinum is undoubtedly the way to go if you're looking for a durable and long-lasting ring. It is more expensive than gold, but it's also more scratch resistant and durable.
If you're looking for a ring with a beautiful, unmistakable golden hue, then 24-karat gold is a perfect choice. It's a softer metal requiring more care, but many couples love how it looks.
Whatever metal you choose, your wedding rings are bound to symbolise your love and commitment to each other. Either road you go down, having a piece made of 24-karat gold or pure platinum is a great way to reflect your love for one another.
With that said, we wish you nothing but luck and happiness with both your ring-selection process, as well as the rest of your lives together.
We hope we’ve provided you with clarity and direction regarding this most precious topic. Weddings and marriage are the most sacred and special of occasions, and the less confusion and ambiguity you have over important issues such as this, the better!
Regardless of which precious metal you opt for, we here at 7879 have got you covered with our beautiful 24-Karat and Pure Platinum rings.
Our exclusive collection of bespoke gold and platinum rings provides you with the perfect platform to begin the rest of your lives together and in the most glamorous way possible!