It is an alloy of Gold and a White Metal, usually Nickel or Palladium. Its purity is measured by “Carats”.
White gold with nickel alloy is hard and strong and is used for rings and pins.
White gold with palladium alloy is soft, pliable and good for gemstones settings.
White gold with a higher quality retains shine and luster and are coated with a thin layer of rhodium. This coating, if not subjected to undue abrasion, heat, repairs, could have a lifetime of 1-3 years.
White gold jewelry was developed in the 1920's as an affordable substitute for platinum. It is produced up to 21 carat and is currently fashionable and desirable. White gold bridal jewelry is getting increasingly popular.
Buying White Gold Jewelry :
Check that the alloy is 100% nickel free as sensitized people may react to it - Ask the retailer if the jewelry is rhodium plated
