Silver vs White Gold
Gold and silver are among the most popular precious metals used for making jewelry throughout history. Gold is significantly more expensive than silver, which is why other metals are often combined with gold to create a new metallic compound known as white gold. White gold has gained popularity worldwide as a substitute for silver. Despite their similar colors, there are notable differences between white gold and silver.
Silver is a grayish-white metal deemed precious and utilized for creating ornaments and silverware. As a relatively soft metal, it is the least expensive among precious metals. Silver is not ideal for daily-wear jewelry over extended periods, as silver ornaments are prone to oxidation. Nevertheless, silver’s shine and color make it popular for various jewelry items, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, pendants, and rings. Due to its tendency to oxidize, silver is generally avoided for wedding rings. However, if silver jewelry turns black from oxidation, it can be cleaned and restored to its original shine. The appeal of silver, particularly among women, stems from its shine, luster, and affordability.
Key Takeaways
- Silver is a grayish-white precious metal, while white gold is gold mixed with at least one white metal, such as silver, palladium, nickel, or rhodium.
- White gold is more expensive than silver.
- Silver oxidizes when worn continuously or daily, making it less ideal for wedding rings, whereas white gold is a popular alternative.
