Matte platinum v. matte white gold

[brooke.lynne]

Hey, all. My boyfriend has found an engagement ring setting that we both really like. It''s platinum with a matte finish, which gives it a really modern look that I like a lot. My concern is that the matte finish doesn''t last very long without getting scratched, according to what''s been said in other threads. Also, I was wondering about having it done in 18K WG. I know white gold is softer, but from what I understand platinum scratches more easily. I''m also worried about the rhodium plating on WG wearing off more quickly if I need to have the finish reapplied occasionally. Can anyone offer a comparison of the two?

P.S. - Engagement ring shopping is so fun!

 

[brooke.lynne]

Just in case anyone is wondering, here is the link from the store where we saw it. I tried on the exact one in the photo and it is super-delicate looking (about 1.8 mm), which balances out the masculine feel of the platinum. I wonder if the matted white gold would look the same color (a soft of gunmetal gray), and whether how that would change when the rhodium wears off

 

[Cathers]

hello and welcome! I have to say I love your avatar pic! MTM!!

My original ER was 14k tension set, shiny finish, and then I decided to get a matte finish put on. I really prefer the matte finish to be honest, it changed the entire look of the ring, it is very funky and modern. My current ER is platinum, and I was considering getting a matte finish on it, but my beloved wasn''t too keen on the idea, not quite sure why...obviously I need to work on him a bit more

The thing I like the most about matte finish was that you do not see it too often, and that is what I like. Keep us updated on your ring hunt!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Just wanted to mention that 18k white gold is not softer than platinum 950. For further reading:

https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/alloy-harness-plat-vs-whitgold.17059/

Both have advantages and disadvantages. Platinum can be repolished without losing metal. WG will lose metal over time. WG will have to be re-rhodium plated and in your case, given the matte finish.

I personally think it is not necessary to put a matte finish on platinum, because as time passes and it collects all the little scratches, it develops a gray patina anyway. It won''t remain shiny unless you have it polished.

 

[brooke.lynne]

Thanks so much for the input, and the welcome!

I am leaning more and more towards the platinum. Does anyone know of any cleaning issues that I should be aware of as far as the finish and the different metals?

I am considering having a nearby jewelery make a replica for me, especially the band, because it seems like it''s overpriced by about $500.

Here is another photo I found online, which shows the finish better.