White gold turns slightly yellow because its bright white finish comes from rhodium plating, and plating wears with time. Underneath is real white gold, which has a naturally warmer tone. Nothing is wrong with your piece, and a jeweler can re-plate it.
What is white gold made of?
White gold is real gold mixed with white metals to lighten its color. On its own it is a soft grayish-white. Most white gold jewelry is then plated with rhodium, a bright white metal, for that mirror-white look.
How fast does it wear?
It depends on wear. Rings rub against everything, so they show it first. Earrings and pendants keep their plating longer.
How do I slow it down?
- Take rings off for cleaning, the gym and heavy work.
- Keep lotions, sanitizer and chlorine off it.
- Clean gently with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush. See What Not to Clean Jewelry With.
How is it fixed?
The piece is cleaned, polished and re-plated with rhodium. It is a good time to have stones and prongs checked too. See Loose Stones and Worn Prongs.
Bring it in
Visit 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800. More on jewelry repair.
Why White Gold Turns Yellow (and How to Fix It)
White gold turns slightly yellow because its bright white finish comes from rhodium plating, and plating wears with time. Underneath is real white gold, which has a naturally warmer tone. Nothing is wrong with your piece, and a jeweler can re-plate it.
What is white gold made of?
White gold is real gold mixed with white metals to lighten its color. On its own it is a soft grayish-white. Most white gold jewelry is then plated with rhodium, a bright white metal, for that mirror-white look.
How fast does it wear?
It depends on wear. Rings rub against everything, so they show it first. Earrings and pendants keep their plating longer.
How do I slow it down?
How is it fixed?
The piece is cleaned, polished and re-plated with rhodium. It is a good time to have stones and prongs checked too. See Loose Stones and Worn Prongs.
Bring it in
Visit 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800. More on jewelry repair.