Reasons Why White Gold Turns Yellow and How to Prevent It

White gold is the perfect alternative to other metals if you are looking for a higher quality and tarnish-free piece. However, a common problem with white gold is that over time, it turns slightly yellow.

Your jewellery yellowing can be annoying, especially if you want to know why this is happening. So, in today's blog, we will look into why white gold turns yellow, and what you can do to prevent it.

What is White Gold?

Created in the 19th century, white gold is made by alloying pure gold with other metals such as palladium and nickel. This results in white gold, but this isn't the shiny white appearance found in jewellery stores. Although it's not a must, most white gold items are rhodium-plated.

White gold is a popular choice because it is high quality and durable. Unlike silver, white gold doesn't tarnish and is a lot more affordable than platinum.

Why Does White Gold Turn Yellow?

White gold turning yellow is a natural process and is caused by the thin layer of rhodium wearing away over time and metals in the white gold alloy oxidising.

The jewellery is coated in a rhodium finish to add sheen and hardness, but naturally, the rhodium wears away from sweat, natural oils and chemicals. This shouldn't be too much of a worry, as you can get your rhodium replated and have it looking as good as new.

How to Prevent White Gold From Turning Yellow

You can't prevent white gold from turning yellow, but you can slow down the process. Here are some things you should avoid doing when wearing your white gold jewellery, to slow down the process:

• Remove your jewellery before swimming as the chemicals in the pool can wear the rhodium finish down.
• Remove your white gold before showering and washing your hands. Although the jewellery is waterproof, the chemicals in soaps and lotions can wear the rhodium plating down.
• Avoid over-polishing your ring, as each time you polish, a little bit of the rhodium finish is rubbed away.
• The chemicals in cleaning products can also wear the rhodium down, so ensure that you are removing your jewellery when cleaning (if there is a chance the jewellery may come into contact with the chemicals).
• Excessive sweating can also wear the rhodium down, so take your jewellery off while doing physical activity.

However, even if you do all of these and try your best to protect your jewellery, eventually it will begin to turn yellow. You don't have to worry though, you can get your rhodium replated.

Here at Miltons Diamonds, we offer an excellent maintenance service, where we will clean and polish your jewellery and also add a Rhodium plating to bring your jewellery back to life.

Why Choose White Gold?

If you are looking for a finish similar to platinum jewellery, but without the platinum price tag, then white gold can be the perfect alternative, if you are shopping on a budget but still want a high-quality piece that feels luxurious.

When coated in the rhodium finish, white gold has a beautiful radiant appearance that resembles platinum – although gold is already a highly durable metal. The rhodium finish adds even more to the hardness of the metal, making it a little bit more durable.

White gold is a perfect choice if you are looking for an everyday piece, as the metal is comfortable to wear. It is also timeless and won't go out of style, lasting you a lifetime's worth of wear.

How Fast Can White Gold Turn Yellow?

It can take anywhere between a few months to a few years for rhodium plating to wear away and make your jewellery appear yellow. This just depends on the natural process of the rhodium and how the item is worn.

The breakdown process is normal and inevitable, but regular maintenance and cleaning can help to slow down the process, giving you more time between re-rhodium plating appointments.

How to Clean White Gold

White gold is easy to clean, and we recommend you clean the white gold you wear regularly once a month. We also recommend that you get your jewellery professionally cleaned once a year, this will ensure that your jewellery is deep-cleaned properly.

Here is a simple 3 step process on what you can do to clean your white gold:

What You Will Need

• Mild soap
• Warm water
• Gentle brush (baby toothbrush)
• Microfibre cloth
• Polishing cloth (optional)

Step - 1

Start by soaking your jewellery in soapy warm water, this will break down any oils and debris that may have accumulated on your jewellery. Soak your jewellery for up to 15 minutes.

Step - 2

Next, take your brush and gently begin to clean your jewellery, paying close attention to any parts where dirt and grime can get stuck. Continue this process until you are satisfied with the clean of your jewellery.

Step - 3

Gently dry your jewellery using the microfibre cloth. Ensure that your jewellery is dried thoroughly before you store it away or wear it. If you have a polishing cloth. Gently polish your jewellery to restore its shine.

Looking for a White Gold Piece?

Here at Milton Diamonds, we have a wide range of white gold pieces for you to browse across our website.

Take a look at our selection of white gold jewellery. We have brand-new and second-hand jewellery for sale. View our brand new Ladies' 9ct White Gold Aquamarine & Diamond Earrings. These earrings are the perfect classic and timeless pair of earrings for anyone’s collection.

Or take a look at our Ladies’ 18ct White Gold Diamond Set Tennis Bracelet - 2.50ct. This is the perfect occasion piece to compliment any outfit. This bracelet is second-hand and in amazing condition.

Our white gold jewellery starts from prices as little as £55! So, whether you are looking for a gift from you to you or a gift for a loved one you will be sure to find the perfect piece.

Get in touch today or visit one of our Merseyside stores.