How Much Is White Gold Worth?

Gold is one of the few things in life that rarely loses its worth. White gold, with its unique alloy blend and rhodium finish, is no exception. That’s why it shows up in everything from heirlooms and forgotten jewelry to wedding bands.

But when the time comes to sell, the real question isn’t about whether gold is valuable. It’s “how much is white gold worth?” and how much you can get for it. In this article, we’ll break down how much white gold is worth and share practical tips to help you sell smart.

What Is White Gold and What Are Its Characteristics?

White gold is a type of gold alloy. Jewelers create it by combining pure gold with other white metals. Common metals used include palladium, nickel, or silver. Most white gold jewelry you see in stores gets its shine from rhodium, a rare and highly reflective metal.

Its unique composition gives white gold characteristics that make it especially suitable for jewelry, both in appearance and performance:

• Durable: Nickel-based white gold is tougher and more scratch-resistant. Meanwhile, silver- and palladium-based white gold is softer. The softness of this alloy makes it easier to work with and resistant to bending or warping.
• Smooth, Reflective Shine: jewelers typically polish white gold with rhodium plating. This treatment gives the jewelry a sleek, mirror-like finish, enhancing its visual appeal.
• Style Versatility: White gold’s clean and neutral tone pairs well with diamonds and gems. This versatility makes it a favored choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry.
• Suits Different Complexions: White gold pairs well with both warm and cool undertones. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for different skin tones.
• Cost-Effective Platinum Look: White gold offers a similar appearance to platinum. The main difference is that it comes at a lower cost. In other words, you get a premium look without paying a premium price.

With all that said, white gold is not a naturally occurring metal. It’s a man-made mix of gold and other alloys. Pure gold, in its natural state, is always yellow.

What Determines the Value of White Gold

Before estimating how much white gold is worth, understand what determines its value. Below are the key factors that influence its valuation.

Karat purity

Karat measures the proportion of pure gold in an item on a 24-point scale, with 24K representing pure gold. White gold is an alloy. The karat rating tells you how much of the piece is actual gold compared to other metals. In white gold, those other metals may include palladium, silver, or nickel.

Karat purity is usually the single most significant factor in determining your white gold’s value. The higher the karat, the more gold your item contains and the higher its melt value.

The table below shows the common white gold karats, their markings, and gold content. 

Karat	Marking	Purity
9k	375	37.5% pure gold
10k	417	41.7% pure gold
14k	585	58.5% pure gold
18k	750	75% pure gold

As the table shows, lower karat white gold contains less pure gold and more alloy metals.

This lower percentage usually means it sells for less when valued based on gold content alone. However, those additional metals make it stronger and more resistant to scratches and daily wear. So while it may be worth less money, lower karat jewelry remains a practical choice for everyday use.

Weight

Weight is one of the first things buyers consider when valuing white gold. Generally, the more an item weighs, the more gold it contains, and the higher its potential melt value.

So, when comparing two pieces of jewelry with the same karat, the heavier one will be worth more. It will contain more gold by volume and command a higher price.

Most jewelers and buyers use precision scales to weigh gold items. Be sure to get an accurate measurement when assessing white gold.

Daily gold spot price

The daily gold spot price refers to the current market price of one ounce of pure, 24K gold. Buyers and sellers worldwide use it as a baseline to know how much raw gold is worth at any given time. This market value helps them set their offers.

Due to these market fluctuations, the value of your gold today may not be the same tomorrow or next week.

The spot price changes daily based on several factors. Inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical events all play a part. For a detailed explanation, Investopedia does it well in this article.

There are many live gold price charts available online to track market trends. This ticker below updates every minute with the current spot price of gold.

Inclusion of diamonds or other gemstones

If white gold jewelry contains diamonds or other gemstones, consider their value too. Gemstones can add value depending on factors like quality, size, and who buys them.

On that note, buyers treat gemstone-inlaid jewelry differently. Some, especially those who specialize in gold dealing, may focus only on the gold’s melt value. Many buyers undervalue or completely ignore gemstones, resulting in a lower overall offer.

The better approach is to have both the gold and the gemstones appraised separately. Doing so will give you the best payout. Then, you can sell the gold to a gold buyer and the gemstones to a reputable jewelry buyer.

For diamonds of one carat or more, Alloy suggests Worthy as a trusted buyer. Worthy is one of Alloy’s trusted partnerships. We may gain a small commission if you sell by clicking that link.

Jewelry brand and condition

In jewelry resale, the brand and overall condition can make a big difference. Notably so when dealing with collectors, private buyers, or jewelry stores.

Luxury names like Tiffany & Co. or Cartier often hold their value. Some buyers are willing to pay a premium for the name and exclusivity. A branded white gold ring or necklace may sell for a lot more than an unbranded piece of the same karat and weight.

Then it comes to condition, a piece free of any scratches, dents, or loose settings can fetch a better offer. If the buyer believes they can resell it without needing repairs, a higher offer is much more likely.

Fashion trends

When white gold is in style, many jewelers and retailers may be more willing to pay a premium for it. However, most trends are short-lived. If white gold jewelry becomes a fashion trend, there is only a short window where demand may raise its value.

Note that this only applies in markets where design and style influence pricing. When dealing with buyers who only focus on the melt value of jewelry, fashion trends don’t come into play.

How Much Is White Gold Worth?

White gold value by karat

As of recent market rates, gold has been hovering around $100.88 per gram (or about $3,137.87 per ounce).

Using those numbers as a reference, here’s the estimated value of white gold for different karat grades.

To calculate Melt Value (USD), use this simple formula:

Weight of item × Gold purity (%) × Spot price of gold per gram = Melt value

Estimated prices by jewelry type

Here are example price estimates for common white gold items based on a spot price of $100.88 per gram.

White gold class ring

A typical white gold class ring usually weighs between 10 and 15 grams. Manufacturers make most class rings from 10K or 14K white gold.

Let’s assume a 12-gram 10k white gold class ring as a working example. At the current spot price of $100.88 per gram, the melt value calculation would look like this:

12 grams × 41.7% gold content × $100.88 per gram = $503.11 melt value

18K white gold ring

An 18k white gold ring often weighs between 3 and 7 grams, depending on its design and thickness. Let’s use a 5-gram 18k white gold ring as a realistic example. With a gold purity of 75% and a spot price of $100.88 per gram, here’s how the melt value works out:

5 grams × 75% gold content × $100.88 per gram = $378.30 melt value

14K white gold necklace

A typical 14k white gold necklace can weigh anywhere from 10 to 30 grams, depending on its style and length. For this example, let’s use a 20-gram 14k white gold necklace, which is an average weight for a medium-length chain.

With a purity of 58.5% gold content and a spot price of $100.88 per gram, here’s how the melt value works out:

20 grams × 58.5% gold content × $100.88 per gram = $1,180.40 melt value

White gold wedding band

White gold wedding bands often weigh between 3 and 7 grams, depending on the style and thickness. Let’s take a 4-gram 14k white gold wedding band as a common example. With 58.5% gold content and a spot price of $100.88 per gram, here’s how to calculate the melt value:

4 grams × 58.5% gold content × $100.88 per gram = $236.08 melt value

White gold diamond ring

A white gold diamond ring has two sources of value: the gold itself and the diamond.

Using the same conditions as above, a 4-gram 14K white gold diamond ring would be worth $236.08 based on gold content.

The diamond’s value depends on factors such as carat weight, cut, clarity, and color. For the best possible offer, have the diamond appraised by a professional jeweler.

Differences Between Yellow Gold and White Gold Value

Is white gold more valuable than yellow gold? No, at least not when you look purely at gold content. As long as both have the same karat and weight, the melt values of both white gold and yellow gold remain equal.

But if that’s the case, why is white gold sometimes priced higher than yellow gold in retail stores? Here are three reasons that explain this difference:

• Cost of Materials and Production: White gold requires blending pure gold with more expensive white metals such as palladium or nickel. On top of that, most white gold jewelry comes plated with rhodium, which is a rare and costly metal.
• Modern Appeal and Market Trends: White gold is sleek and neutral-looking. These characteristics make it a perfect match for contemporary, minimalist styles. Its popularity in engagement rings and fine jewelry drives its high demand.
• Target Market Preferences: Some jewelers price white gold higher to target a specific demographic. An article by Newsweek noted that white gold remains particularly popular among millennials. Conversely, Gen Z buyers tend to prefer yellow gold or alternative metals.

While traditional and white gold have many similarities, they also have differences. Here is a comparison table that highlights their key distinctions.

Downsides of White Gold

White gold is a popular choice among many buyers due to its modern appearance and versatility. However, it does come with a few drawbacks that every owner should be aware of. Anyone looking to sell should also take note.

• Rhodium Plating Wears Off: White gold’s bright shine is achieved through rhodium plating. This plating fades over time with wear. Due to this wearing, white gold will need replating every couple of years.
• Higher Maintenance Costs: Constantly replating white gold becomes costly over time. This maintenance is not something required of yellow gold.
• Nickel Content May Cause Allergies: Some white gold alloys contain nickel, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. For individuals with sensitive skin, this is a crucial consideration before purchasing or selling.

How to Tell If Your White Gold Is Real

While a visual inspection may be sufficient for other types of gold, it’s less reliable for white gold. Rhodium plating can complicate visual confirmation. For a more detailed explanation, read ‘How to Tell if Your Gold Is Real.’ For now, here are some quick tips based on the article’s coverage.

• Look for Hallmark Stamps: Most real gold jewelry carries a hallmark stamp. Look on the inside of rings or clasps to locate it. Common marks include “10K,” “14K,” or “18K.” No hallmark doesn’t always mean fake, but it’s a suspect sign that warrants a closer look.
• Try Simple At-Home Tests: Use a magnet to test gold, as it isn’t magnetic. If jewelry sticks, it’s likely not real gold. There are also acid testing kits available for purchase. Use these kits with care, as they can damage the piece if not used properly.
• Consider a Professional Test: Jewelers and gold buyers use professional tools to detect gold purity. An XRF analyzer or acid testing kits provide more reliable results than at-home tests. These methods are the most accurate way to confirm if white gold is real.

How to Sell Your White Gold Items

When someone wants to get the best possible price for white gold, it pays to know their options. This article provides a more detailed coverage of this topic, but here’s a brief overview of the essentials.

Sell where you’ll get the most payout

In general, there are three common types of buyers to sell to:

• Specialized Gold Buyers: Take The Alloy Market, for example. We often offer payouts as high as 90% of your gold’s melt value – one of the highest in the market today. Request our free appraisal kit, and we’ll send your same-day payout once you accept our offer.
• Jewelry Stores or Private Buyers: Branded, vintage, or intricate jewelry is more desirable to these buyers. They will consider factors such as craftsmanship, exclusivity, and brand value.
• Pawn Shops: These are a last resort for those who need fast cash. Pawn shops usually offer the lowest payouts because they price in resale risk.

Verify the buyer’s legitimacy

Conduct research to select businesses with a solid reputation and proper licenses. Check if they have Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation and read customer reviews. Take care to look for reviews about clear terms and upfront estimates.

Get multiple offers and compare

Don’t settle for the first quote received. Take time to shop around and ask each buyer for a clear breakdown of their offer. Ask how they calculate the payout. Get everything in writing. Doing so allows for a comparison of offers and documents, including all details of the deal.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to selling your white gold, Alloy wants to be your trusted gold buyer. Request a free Appraisal Kit today. At no obligation, we will send you a free kit with a postage-paid parcel inside. Pack your items and ship them free of cost, insured, and tracked.

Upon receipt, Alloy Market will professionally assess your items and send you an offer. Once you accept your offer, we initiate payment that same day. If you don’t accept the offer, we’ll ship your items back to you at no cost. Alloy offers a highest payout guarantee. Make the most money for your gold sale today.