Pointers for Buying White Gold

White gold has gained considerable popularity as a base for jewelry pieces. And this is but understandable as it is relatively cheaper yet as durable and as elegant as other white precious metals such as platinum. If considering on investing on jewelries made from this precious metal, it would be best to know the basic guidelines so as not to end up getting shortchanged from your purchase.

1. Consider obtaining kits to enable you to perform self testing. It is very crucial to note that there is yet to be a legal definition for white gold. So it is not uncommon to find jewelries marketed to be high quality but are, in fact, just poorly plated items. So if you have the extra funds to spare, avail of the White Gold Whiteness Index from the Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America (MJSA). This kit includes seven color templates that can be used as a basis for choosing the best jewelry items out there. MJSA also recommends the light sources called SpectraLight Junior or Sol-Source to provide you with better viewing conditions for self testing. While these kits will cost you extra, they are invaluable tools that will come in handy especially if you foresee buying such jewelries on a regular basis.
2. Know that there are always reputable third parties that conduct testing. The American Assay and Gemological Office provide testing for white gold jewelries. So if you already have jewelries you would like to have tested, they’re your best choice for impartial testing.
3. Deal only with long established reputable jewelers. Buying white gold is much like purchasing other precious metals or gems—one must only obtain them from respected dealers. Sure you’ll probably find tons of cheap sources for these jewelries online. However, you will never really know for sure the quality of the items they are hocking. So as a precautionary measure, only go for jewelers that have long been in the business.
4. Always demand for certificates attesting the jewelry’s purity. Certificates from third party assayers such as the American Assay and Gemological Office should always be sought out whenever buying high-ticket jewelries containing white gold. If the jeweler you are doing business with is unable to produce such paperwork, then it certainly is a red flag.
5. Know that fancy pieces may fetch higher prices. If you prefer novelty jewelries made from white gold, then you must be prepared to pay higher rates for them. So say the jewelry only has 75% gold in it but it has been crafted by a well-known goldsmith or designer, chances are they will be sold at far higher rates than their plain white gold jewelry counterparts.
6. Know that periodic plating may be required. White gold pieces are prone to color wear. The finish will eventually turn to a dull light gray or yellow through time. Jewelers then recommend re-plating of rhodium on the items at least once a year.

Lastly, white gold jewelries containing nickel finish has been found to cause allergic reactions. In fact, European countries ban items with nickel plating. So whenever shopping, always demand for items that have no traces of the allergy-causing metal nickel.

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