White gold is a popular metal used in jewelry, known for its lustrous appearance and durability. However, its composition is frequently misunderstood. It is essential to clarify that it is not simply a variant of the elemental metal with atomic number 47. Instead, it is an alloy created by combining gold with other white metals, such as nickel, palladium, or silver, to achieve its characteristic color.
The creation of this alloy offers significant advantages. Pure gold is too soft for most jewelry applications; alloying it enhances its strength and resistance to wear. The addition of white metals also alters the color, providing an alternative to yellow gold while maintaining the precious metal’s inherent value and aesthetic appeal. Historically, the development of this alloy expanded the design possibilities for jewelers and broadened the consumer market.