Is White Gold the Same as Platinum
Jul 13, 2023
Understanding Precious White Metals
When people come across old jewelry, coins, or inherited items, it’s common to wonder: is white gold the same as platinum? These two silvery-white metals can look similar at first glance, but they are very different in composition, durability, and value. Knowing which metal you have is the first step toward making informed decisions if you plan to sell or recycle unwanted items.
Key Differences Between White Gold and Platinum
Feature | White Gold | Platinum |
|---|---|---|
Composition | Gold alloy mixed with nickel, palladium, or other metals for a white appearance | Mostly pure platinum, often 90–95% |
Common Stamps | 10K, 14K, 18K (sometimes marked "750" for 18K) | "Plat," "Pt," or numbers like "950" indicating 95% purity |
Color Treatment | Often rhodium-plated for extra brightness | Natural silvery-white tone without plating |
Durability | Resistant, but plating wears over time | Very durable and dense; wears down more slowly |
Value Basis | Depends on karat purity and weight | Based on high platinum purity and rarity |
How to Identify White Gold vs. Platinum
Check for Stamps or Hallmarks
Look inside a ring band or on the clasp of jewelry. White gold often carries karat markings: 10K, 14K, 18K, or in European systems, numbers like 375 (9K), 585 (14K), or 750 (18K). Platinum items usually have "Plat," "Pt," or a number such as 950 to reflect purity. If marks are unclear, a magnifying loupe can help.
Magnet Test
Both metals are non-magnetic. If your "white" item reacts to a strong magnet, it likely contains another metal or is plated. Keep in mind this test is not definitive, but it’s a quick preliminary check.
Weight and Density
Platinum is notably heavier than gold jewelry of the same size. If two rings look identical but one feels significantly heavier, it may be platinum. Using a precise pocket scale (readable in grams) helps with comparison.
Professional Testing
Acid testing and electronic metal testers are common methods for confirming whether something is gold, platinum, or plated. A professional buyer or appraiser will often perform these tests in your presence or explain results clearly in a mail-in setting.
Understanding Purity and Value
Gold purity is measured in karats. For example, 14K white gold contains 58.5% pure gold, mixed with other metals for strength and color. Platinum purity tends to be higher, commonly 90–95% pure metal. Because purity and weight directly influence payout, recording the correct information when filling out an online form ensures your price matches the true metal content.
Melt Value vs. Resale Value
The melt value is the raw price of a metal based on its weight and purity, often tied to current market prices. Offers from buyers may adjust slightly depending on the cost of refining, labor, or non-precious components such as stones, steel parts, or clasps. Knowing this difference helps set realistic expectations when selling.
Sorting and Preparing Your Items
Separate jewelry by visible stamps (e.g., keep 14K yellow gold apart from 18K white gold).
Remove non-metallic parts when safe (plastic, leather, fabric).
Keep small fragments, like broken chains or dental gold bits, in a labeled bag to avoid losing them.
Clearly group platinum pieces by their stamp if identified.
Mailing and Shipping
If you choose a mail-in process for evaluation, most companies provide trackable and insured packaging to protect your items. For larger shipments, many sellers use secure services such as USPS Registered Mail with insurance or insured FedEx options. Always keep receipts and tracking numbers.
Payments You Can Expect
Once your items are evaluated, you may choose between several secure payment methods:
PayPal: Fast, but fees may apply depending on your account.
Venmo: Quick for personal use; verify transfer limits.
Zelle: Direct to your bank, usually instant, no extra fees.
Cash App: Simple transfers, but daily limits may apply.
ACH or Bank Transfer: Reliable for larger sums, usually within 1–3 business days.
Check: Slower but provides a physical paper trail.
Safety and Documentation
Before mailing items, take clear photos and record weights. Even a simple spreadsheet or note app works. For more organized tracking, a dedicated record-keeping tool like GavelBase can help you archive details. Always keep copies of shipment labels and correspondence.
Quick FAQ
Is white gold more valuable than platinum?
Not usually. Platinum is denser and rarer, and typically commands a higher price per gram. However, a large 18K white gold piece may still be quite valuable.
How do I know if something is plated?
Plated items often show wear at edges, revealing yellow or base metal underneath. Testing and hallmarks give more certainty.
Can dental gold be platinum?
Most dental alloys are gold-based, usually 16K–18K. Platinum in dental work is uncommon, though it can appear in older or specialized cases.
Conclusion
White gold and platinum may look similar, but knowing the distinction is critical for accurate valuation and safe selling. Pay attention to stamps, purity, and weight. Sort items carefully, document them with photos, and use secure, insured shipping. With clear testing results and secure payment options, you can feel confident about turning unwanted precious metals into cash while preserving their true worth.