At first glance, it's hard for the untrained eye to tell the difference between white gold and sterling silver. They're both silver in color, but the two metals are quite different beyond their initial appearances. 

Here's what you need to know when you're on the hunt for silver-hued jewelry.  

What is White Gold?

White gold is a mixture of pure gold and other metals, which makes the metal harder with a white color appearance. Generally, the metals used in white gold are nickel, silver or palladium and the properties of white gold varies on which alloy is used.  

Just like yellow gold, the purity of white gold is measured in karats. So, if a white gold ring is 18 karats, this means that the ring is made up of 75% gold (18 karats divided by 24) and 25% other metals. 

What is Silver? 

Silver is a shiny, precious metal valued for its beauty and electrical conductivity and has been used to create coins, decorative pieces and jewelry for centuries. 

Regarding jewelry, silver is often alloyed with copper to add strength, since it’s a fairly soft metal. When silver is mixed with copper, it is called sterling silver. While shopping for sterling silver, you may notice a “925” stamped on the metal, which means that it contains 92.5% of pure silver and 7.5% of other metals. 

White Gold vs. Silver 

The type of jewelry you're looking to get will weigh heavily into your decision between white gold and silver. Read the differences between the two to help make your decision easier. 

Durability 

The silver products sold by Roselle Jewelry have 6 layers of platinum plating, which are generally durable for about 3-5 years (compared to K gold/rhodium-plated)

Affordability 

Silver is among the most affordable types of metal for jewelry, making it perfect for costume jewelry that you rotate with your wardrobe. However, the extra durability of white gold does increase the price tag of the metal. White gold costs more than silver, but less than platinum, making it moderately affordable. 

Weight

Since silver and platinum have different densities, the specific gravity will also be 1:1.4.
You can refer to the picture below：

18K White Gold

Silver can't make the weight of white gold at all.

If you find a 1:1 weight in the market, it is basically made of copper.
And this copper material can cause allergic reactions in the hands.

Summary

If you want to be exactly the same as what you bought in a diamond shop, you can wear it for a long time. It is recommended to choose White Gold.

If you are of a playful nature, change different styles in one or two years. Recommended silver