What is the better choice when it comes to gold vs platinum? Gold and platinum are the two most commonly used metals for engagement and wedding rings. Both metals are unique, yet similar in several ways. Let’s look at how gold and platinum compare in appearance, cost, durability, and comfort.

Gold vs Platinum Appearance

The main distinguishing physical characteristic between gold and platinum is color. While platinum is naturally white, gold is naturally yellow. If you want a yellow ring, then gold (also termed yellow gold) is the best option. However, if you want a white ring, you can opt for platinum or white gold.

White gold rings are composed of gold, alloys, and a rhodium plating which gives it a white look that’s very similar to platinum. 14k white gold and 14k yellow gold have the same gold content and purity (58.5% gold), but the alloys in white gold (and the rhodium plating) make it appear white, while the alloys in yellow gold do not.

While white gold looks very similar to platinum, over time the the rhodium plating in white gold will wear off and fade to a yellowish tinge. Once you re-polish and re-plate the white gold ring, it will look white again. Platinum, which is naturally white, will not fade to yellow. 

Gold vs Platinum Cost

While gold and platinum are similar in price per gram, platinum is more dense and so more of it is required to make a ring. Additionally, platinum rings are usually 95% pure platinum, while 14k gold is only 58.5% gold (18k gold is 75% gold). Therefore, platinum rings are more expensive.

Gold vs Platinum Durability

Platinum is Stronger and More Durable

Though both gold and platinum are strong and durable precious metals, platinum is the stronger and more durable of the two. For example, the prongs holding the center stone of a platinum engagement ring are less likely to break then those of a gold engagement ring.

Platinum Scratches Easier than 14k Gold

Despite being stronger and more durable, platinum is a softer metal than 14k gold. This means it will get scratched a little easier than 14k gold would. However, an important thing to note is when gold is scratched, the gold is lost and it looks like a scratch. When platinum is scratched, the platinum gets moved from one place on the ring to another, and it develops something called a patina finish (which looks like an antique or worn ring). A lot of people love and desire the patina finish.

The good thing is that re-polishing your ring will help restore the ring to near its original look for both platinum and gold.

Platinum is Truly White

As mentioned above, platinum will always stay white but white gold needs to be re-polished and re-plated occasionally to avoid a yellow hue. This yellow hue usually appears several months to several years after polishings, depending on how much wear and tear the ring faces.

 Gold vs Platinum Comfort

Because platinum is more dense than gold, platinum rings will be heavier than gold as well. Some prefer the heavier weight, but some find the lightness of gold rings to be more comfortable. It is really up to each individual person. One option for people seeking a comfortable ring it is to opt for one with a comfortable design.

One more benefit of platinum is that it is hypoallergenic. While gold rings do not create an allergy issue for most people, some can develop an allergic reaction from the nickel alloy used in gold rings.

Final Thoughts and Summary on Gold vs Platinum

If you still can’t decide between gold and platinum, don’t worry. If you have the budget, go for platinum. If you don’t, then gold (or palladium) is still a very precious metals and is an excellent choice. At the end of the day, all rings require some minimal upkeep and maintenance so make sure you purchase your rings from a company that has a lifetime warranty and will re-polish, clean, and re-plate your rings for free for life.