What is the best metal for everyday jewelry? With various types of materials available for jewelry, choosing the right one can be a challenging task. Should you choose for White Gold or Sterling Silver? At first glance, it's difficult to tell the difference between white gold and sterling silver. They both appear silver-colored, but in reality, there are significant differences to consider before making your purchase. Below, you will discover the advantages of sterling silver and white gold, as well as learn how to maintain and care for these types of jewelry.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)

Column Ring & Column Ring II from IIII collection; Made in Sterling Silver

 (White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)

1. Sterling Silver

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)

Why Should I Choose Sterling Silver as My Jewelry Material?

Sterling silver is a precious metal that is soft and delicate. It can be easily dented or scratched upon impact. To prevent scratches on sterling silver jewelry, please avoid wearing it against hard surfaces and coming into contact with abrasive surfaces. At Dans Le Gris, we ensure superior quality in every piece of sterling silver jewelry we offer. Our jewelry is made of 925 sterling silver, where '925' signifies that it is composed of 92.5% silver, with the remaining 7.5% comprising other elements such as copper. The inclusion of copper and the 92.5% silver composition in sterling silver jewelry helps minimize the chances of allergic reactions, making it a suitable option for individuals with skin sensitivities.

Sterling Silver is Hypoallergenic

Sterling silver is a high-quality, hypoallergenic metal that creates beautiful pieces. Its hypoallergenic nature ensures that allergic reactions, such as rashes, can be avoided when wearing it. The hypoallergenic nature of sterling silver is attributed to its composition, which consists of a high percentage of pure silver (92.5%) and is combined with other metals, commonly copper, to improve its strength and durability. By including a small amount of copper or other metals in the alloy, the likelihood of allergic reactions in most individuals is reduced.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
Since sterling silver is hypoallergenic, wearing your favorite jewelry made from this material will not cause any irritation. Sterling silver is known for its comfort and suitability for everyday wear. However, it is important to note that while sterling silver is generally hypoallergenic, there may be rare cases where individuals have specific allergies or sensitivities to certain metals. If you have a history of metal allergies, it is advisable to conduct a skin sensitivity test by applying the jewelry to a small area before wearing it extensively. This precautionary step can help minimize or avoid any potential reactions.

Sculpture Ring from Mutability Collection; Handmade in Sterling Silver

How to Care for Sterling Silver Jewelry

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
Taking proper care of your sterling silver jewelry is crucial to preserve its appearance and ensure its long-term quality. The best way to prevent tarnish is to wear your sterling silver jewelry regularly because sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time. When you are not wearing the pieces, store your cleaned and polished sterling silver jewelry in the pouch provided with your purchase. It's important to note that silver must be kept dry and properly stored to help prevent tarnish. To prevent scratching and tarnishing, you may want to consider utilizing individual pouches or a jewelry box with a protective lining.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
In addition, you can clean your sterling silver jewelry using a jewelry polishing cloth. Please avoid using any chemical products to clean your sterling silver jewelry, such as household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays. These substances can cause discoloration and damage to the metal.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
Regardless of whether you choose white gold or sterling silver, we always recommend keeping your jewelry as dry as possible. The presence of water or moisture trapped between your skin and the jewelry item can heighten sensitivity and increase the risk of allergic reactions.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)

Openwork Dome Ring; Handmade in Sterling Silver
(White Gold vs Sterling Silver - dans le gris)

2. White Gold

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris) 

Why Should I Choose White Gold as My Jewelry Material?

 (White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
White gold, a favored precious metal in the realm of jewelry making, has gained immense popularity. Unlike metals that occur naturally in the earth, white gold is created by combining gold with other metals, resulting in a harder composition compared to purer forms of gold. The enhanced hardness of white gold grants it superior toughness and resistance against scratches. This quality makes it a favored choice for wedding rings among individuals seeking durable and long-lasting jewelry pieces.

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
White gold is created by alloying (mixing) gold with nickel or palladium, copper, and zinc. The main base of white gold is yellow gold, which is slightly smoother in its pure form. When mixed with an alloy, it becomes more durable and even more resistant to scratches. The purity of gold is measured in karats, on a scale ranging from 9 to 24, with 24 karats being the purest form of gold. White gold emerged as an alternative to platinum, offering a more affordable option. Typically, white gold is available in 14k or 18k variants, indicating a gold purity of 58.3% or 75% respectively. It boasts corrosion and impact resistance, imparting a sense of durability when worn. These exceptional qualities have contributed to the widespread popularity of white gold as a favored choice among jewelry enthusiasts.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
In the case of white gold, nickel is commonly used as an alloy, but often white gold is also plated with rhodium. What is rhodium? Rhodium is a metal from the platinum family that possesses a luxurious silvery luster. It serves as a protective layer, preventing tarnish and requiring minimal maintenance. Rhodium plating initially protects wearers from any nickel in the gold, but over time, the plating may wear off, potentially causing skin irritation in case of allergies.

How to Care for White Gold Jewelry

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
White gold requires less maintenance and does not tarnish over time. It only needs occasional cleaning to maintain its luster. When cleaning or polishing white gold, please avoid using abrasive materials that may scratch or wear down the metal. Instead, choose to use a soft jewelry polishing cloth or a specialized gold cleaning solution specifically designed for white gold. After cleaning, rinse the jewelry with clean water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
Please note, always ensure that your white gold jewelry is kept away from harsh chemicals like household cleaners, chlorine, and bleach. These substances have the potential to damage the metal and can cause discoloration or erosion of the plating. Although white gold jewelry is more durable, it is still advisable to store it separately from other pieces to protect it. You can consider using individual jewelry pouches or a lined jewelry box to shield it from moisture, dust, and potential damage. This not only helps preserve the shine of your white gold jewelry but also prevents tangling with other pieces.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
White gold jewelry is frequently plated with rhodium to enhance its whiteness and luster. However, over time, the plating may diminish, revealing the natural yellowish hue of the underlying gold. If desired, you can have your white gold jewelry re-plated by a professional jeweler to restore its radiant and bright white appearance.

Cost | White Gold vs. Sterling Silver

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
There's no doubt that white gold is generally more valuable than sterling silver. Jewelry made of sterling silver offers an affordable and reasonably priced option. If you're on a budget but still seeking a durable choice, then sterling silver is the right choice for you. It's important to note that even though white gold is mixed with other metals, it remains true gold and its value is not diminished.

Durability | White Gold vs. Sterling Silver

If you are looking for a durable and low-maintenance material, we recommend considering white gold. It is a high-quality and damage-resistant option. Sterling silver, on the other hand, is less durable compared to white gold. That's why many people choose white gold for everyday wear, such as their wedding band. Sterling silver can scratch easily and may even bend or become misshapen over time, especially when exposed to the elements.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
Please remember that sterling silver is a soft metal; therefore, it is not abnormal or indicative of poor quality if it shows signs of wear over time. On the other hand, white gold is more durable and is likely a better choice for everyday jewelry, as it can withstand minimal damage and resist scratching. Additionally, white gold maintains its shape well over time.

14k White Gold Pebble Ring with Satin Finish

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)

About Us

Dans Le Gris is a brand that started with everyday jewelry; each handmade piece is designed and crafted in Taiwan. We deeply value every detail, dedicating ourselves to creating enduring pieces through collaboration with experienced craftsmen.
(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)
Our inspiration drawn from art, nature, and the beauty of life's everyday little things. We aspire to blur the lines between everyday aesthetics and contemporary designs, crafting sensuous and timeless pieces that gracefully become a part of your life.

(White Gold vs. Sterling Silver: Which is Better for You? - dans le gris)

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