The most common metals used in the white gold alloy mix are:

• Nickel – The most popular pick for white gold alloys, nickel is durable and has a naturally white hue that helps neutralize gold's yellow tones. If you're a sensitive-skin-haver, nickel can cause allergic reactions, so consider palladium instead!

• Palladium – A member of the platinum family, palladium is hypoallergenic and a great alternative to nickel in white gold jewelry. It has a brighter, shinier finish and is softer and more malleable than nickel - a go-to for more intricate designs. If you have sensitive skin, palladium-alloyed white gold is a great choice.

• Silver – While not the strongest, silver is sometimes used to fine-tune the hue of white gold. It adds a softer, cooler tone without overpowering the mix.

• Platinum – While it’s not usually the main ingredient, platinum is sometimes blended into white gold alloys. It adds strength and helps achieve that coveted bright, white tone.

Once the white gold alloy is formed from these metals, it's plated with rhodium, a rare and shiny member of the platinum family. Rhodium is what gives white gold its signature reflective, cool-toned finish, and once it wears away, you're left with a yellower finish.

Fun Fact: Rhodium is one of the rarest and most expensive precious metals in the world—worth even more per ounce than gold!

• 10-Karat White Gold – This is the least pure form of white gold, with only 41.7% pure gold. Because it’s mixed with a higher proportion of other metals, like nickel, palladium, or silver, the yellow undertones from the gold are less noticeable, giving it a cooler, almost steel-like hue. This is the most affordable option but it tends to look more muted and less lustrous compared to higher-karat versions.

• 14-Karat White Gold – With 58.3% pure gold, 14K white gold strikes a balance between durability and color. The higher gold content gives it a warmer, more natural undertone compared to 10K white gold, but it's still looks very silvery. 14k is a fine jewelry favorite because it combines strength with a slightly richer finish, while still allowing the rhodium plating to deliver a crisp, white shine.

• 18-Karat White Gold – With 75% pure gold, 18K white gold has the warmest undertones when it's rhodium coating wears off.

So, Why Does White Gold Turn Yellow?

As you can see, that yellow tint isn’t your jewelry tarnishing—it’s just the rhodium plating wearing away and revealing the true color of the white gold alloy underneath. Here are a few factors that can cause your rhodium plating to wear off sooner:

• Daily Wear and Tear: Rings especially, get a lot of love and a lot of friction. Over time, all that activity can wear down the layer of rhodium.

• Chemicals and Skincare: Lotions, perfumes, and household cleaners can cause rhodium to wear off sooner. Chlorinated pools and hot tubs are also a no-go if you want to keep that bright white shine lasting longer.

• Your Body Chemistry: Everyone’s skin is different. Natural oils and pH levels can affect how quickly the rhodium wears away.

• Environmental Factors: Saltwater and even humidity can cause rhodium to fade more quickly.

Caring for White Gold at Home

In between replating, here’s how to keep your white gold gleaming:

• Avoid the chemicals: Take off your rings before applying lotions, perfumes, or using cleaning products.

• Store it safely: Keep your jewelry in a soft pouch or a lined box to avoid scratches and reduce exposure to air and moisture.

• Keep it clean: A little warm water and mild dishsoap is all you need. Let it soak for about 10 minutes in warm soapy water, then gently clean it with a soft bristled toothbrush.

• Buff it out: Use a microfiber jewelry cloth to give your pieces a quick polish and restore some of their shine.

Pro Tip: Skip the ultrasonic cleaners for white gold—they can wear down the rhodium plating faster.

Looking for a Metal That Won’t Yellow? Meet Platinum!

If you love that bright white look but want a metal that won’t need replating, opt for platinum. It’s naturally silvery-white and stays that way—no rhodium required. Platinum is a bit pricier than white gold, but it’s also heavier, hypoallergenic, and super durable. For a full rundown on the differences, check out our White Gold vs. Platinum Guide.

Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring in Platinum

Supermoon Star Engraved Ring in White Gold

FAQs About White Gold Turning Yellow

Is it bad if my white gold turns yellow?
Not at all! It’s just the rhodium plating wearing off—not a sign of damage or tarnish. A quick professional replating will have it looking brand new.

Does white gold tarnish?
White gold doesn’t tarnish like silver; it just loses its rhodium coating over time.

Can I prevent my white gold from turning yellow?
You can slow it down by avoiding chemicals, taking off your rings before any potentially damaging activity, and storing them properly. But eventually, all white gold will need a fresh coat of rhodium.

How to remove oxidation from white gold?
Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dishsoap. Soak your jewelry for a few minutes, then use a toothbrush to clean it up. Rinse with warm water and allow it to air dry.