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For as long as there have been engagement rings, there has been a battle of the bands: White gold or platinum?
If your bride-to-be prefers a silvery hue, there's a decision (yep, another one of those) to make. White gold is very popular; its silver tone is made by combining gold alloy with a variety of white metals (such as silver, nickel and palladium). Platinum is a naturally white metal, requiring no combinations to get that cool tone. Almost all platinum is about 95% platinum and 5% other pure alloys. Therefore, platinum costs more: About two-and-a-half to five times more than white gold.
If you go with white gold, though, you're in good company. Many women love the look. But you should be aware of another difference between white gold and platinum: durability. White gold is softer than platinum, and it's finished with a rhodium plating that can wear off with time, requiring occasional ring dipping.
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Ring dipping is the process of having a ring replated with rhodium. Typically, electric currents are used to bond rhodium to the metal of the band.
Depending on how often (and how hard) it's worn, the rhodium plating on a ring could last anywhere from one to three years. (Hint: You should be taking your ring off for many activities even if they seem benign, like washing dishes and even going to bed. Your rhodium plating will last a lot longer if you get into this habit.)
As mentioned earlier, the average timeframe for rings to be dipped are from one to three years. For all rings, gemologists recommend preventative care. That means putting the ring away as much as possible, when you have to work with your hands. A big visual indicator is when the ring seems a bit dull, or you see a yellow cast on its prongs.
No, platinum does not require dipping. When platinum is scratched, the metal is not lost, as it is in white gold metal. Instead, the color shifts within the ring itself, creating what is known as a patina finish. Some people love the vintage look platinum patina imparts. In fact, in some cultures, it's a cherished aspect of platinum jewelry. On an engagement ring, it's seen as a physical testiment to how long you and your significant other have been together. But if you prefer a new look, you can get your platinum ring professionally polished, or buff it yourself with a soft cloth to restore the shine.
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At a retail store, you can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $120 to have your ring dipped, depending on the complexity of the setting and style.
But at With Clarity, ring dipping is free! We offer a lifetime warranty that covers ring replating and polishing. That ensures your With Clarity ring will be beautiful for a lifetime.
Ready to start shopping? We're here for you! At With Clarity, our expert staff gemologists are highly experienced in working with couples to find the right ring for every style and budget.