This is a general metal guide for fine jewellery in the market.
Platinum
Appearance
Lustrous silvery-white look
Purity*
95% Platinum 5% Iridium,
Ruthenium or Cobalt
*varies slightly depending on jewellers
Durability
Requires little maintenance as platinum is naturally white and less malleable than gold.
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Price
More expensive than 18K gold due to higher densities and purities.
18K White Gold
Appearance
Lustrous silvery-white look, similar to platinum
Purity*
75% Gold
25% Nickel & Zinc
*varies slightly depending on jewellers
Durability
Requires re-plating every few years as its colour and luster come from rhodium plating.
Hypoallergenic
No
Price
Cheaper than platinum. Same as rose gold and yellow gold.
18K Rose Gold
Appearance
Soft, golden-tinged shade of pink, giving off a romantic appeal
Purity*
75% Gold
25% Copper
*varies slightly depending on jewellers
Durability
Requires polishing every few years to maintain the rose gold colour.
Hypoallergenic
No
Price
Cheaper than platinum. Same as white gold and yellow gold.
18K Yellow Gold
Appearance
Similar to the yellow gold colour we are familiar with but slightly lighter due to lower karat
Purity*
75% Gold
12.5% Copper
12.5% Silver
*varies slightly depending on jewellers
Durability
Colour is easiest to maintain but most malleable among all gold types.
Hypoallergenic
No, but better than white gold or rose gold due to different content weightage
Price
Cheaper than platinum. Same as white gold and rose gold.