How Can You Tell The Difference Between White Gold & Silver?

Here are some ways to tell the difference:

1. Color and Shine:
   

   • Silver: Typically has a bright, shiny appearance and a white-gray color. It may tarnish over time, developing a blackish layer due to oxidation.
     
   • White Gold: Often has a slightly warmer tone compared to silver, and is usually rhodium-plated to enhance its shine and prevent yellowing. It tends to maintain its shine longer than silver without tarnishing.
     
     

2. Markings:
   

   • Silver: Often stamped with hallmarks like "925" or "Sterling," indicating 92.5% silver content.
     
   • White Gold: Stamped with karat marks such as "10K," "14K," "18K," or "750," indicating the gold content. It may also be stamped with "WG" for white gold.
     
     

3. Weight:

   • Silver: Lighter than gold. If you have two similar-sized pieces, the silver one will generally feel lighter.
     
   • White Gold: Heavier due to its gold content and density.
     
     

4. Cost:
   

   • Silver: Generally less expensive than white gold.
     
   • White Gold: More expensive due to the gold content and the cost of rhodium plating.
     
     

5. Magnet Test:

   • Silver: Not magnetic. If a piece of jewelry is attracted to a magnet, it is not pure silver.
     
   • White Gold: Also not magnetic. If attracted to a magnet, it might have a significant amount of other metals.
     
     

6. Wear and Tarnish:

   • Silver: Tends to tarnish and requires regular polishing to maintain its shine.
     
   • White Gold: Does not tarnish but might require occasional re-plating with rhodium to maintain its appearance.
     
     

7. Acid Test:
   
   

• Both metals can be tested using acid kits available for testing jewelry, but this method is typically done by professionals to avoid damaging the jewelry.

By examining these characteristics, you can differentiate between white gold and silver more effectively.