Vintage 14k White Gold Diamond Bracelet Estate Jewelry

About white gold jewelry White gold emerged in the early 1900s as jewelers searched for a less expensive alternative to platinum. By mixing yellow gold with metals like nickel or palladium, they developed a pale, silvery alloy that offered a similar look to platinum but at a lower cost. Because white gold doesn’t occur naturally, it’s created by blending pure gold with other metals such as nickel, palladium, silver, or zinc. The metals used influence both the color and the qualities of the final alloy: nickel gives a bright, crisp white, while palladium produces a softer, warmer shade. In jewelry making, white gold is often coated with rhodium, a member of the platinum family, to give it a brilliant, reflective finish and protect it from scratches. Over time, this rhodium layer can wear away and may need reapplication. Popular in engagement and wedding rings, white gold is prized for its durability, resistance to tarnish, and symbolic connection to purity and lasting commitment. Its combination of beauty, strength, and adaptability has made it a staple choice in fine jewelry design.