White Gold is a combinations metals, nickel, silver and palladium are added to gold in the creation of white gold, see {White Gold Rings} below This was developed to circumvent the restrictions on platinum imposed during WWI, and is still a popular choice among contemporary jewelry designers.
Gold is usually classified by carat weight, ranging from 8-24k. The addition of copper, silver and other base metals is what can allow for variation in both weight and color. In early 20th century, white metals such as nickel, silver and palladium were added to gold.
Pure gold is a rich, shining yellow, full of luster. 18K gold is also an intense yellow but 14K gold may be a slightly muted in tone compared to 18K or 24K gold because of the higher percentages of metal alloys which dilute the brilliant gold color.
In early 20th century, white metals such as nickel, silver and palladium were added to gold in the creation of white gold, as s action of white gold, as seen in this 18k white gold engagement Ring. This was developed to circumvent the restrictions on platinum imposed during WWI, and is still a popular choice among contemporary jewelry designers.
More gold means a richer yellow tone, and also a softer final product. Jewelry from India, for example, is known for having a higher concentration of gold. This results in the bright yellow look and a softer feel, and makes it 24k in most cases.
In mid-19th century Imperial Russia, the iconic Peter Carl Fabergé created what he referred to as ‘Russian gold’ by adding copper. This is more commonly known nowadays as rose gold – as seen in this rose gold wedding Ring: