How to distinguish white gold from silver: 3 ways to check at home (visually, with vinegar and iodine), which is better
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Silver and white gold are some of the most popular jewelry metals used to create jewelry. Outwardly they are very similar. In this regard, questions inevitably arise about how to distinguish white gold from silver and which metal to choose for yourself. Let's find out together.
What is white gold and silver
Silver is a precious metal mined from the depths of the earth. It is not used in its pure form. The reason for this is its high softness, due to which the jewelry quickly deforms. To increase strength, copper is added to the composition.
White gold is an alloy based on the classic yellow precious metal. The ligature in it creates the necessary shade.
How are these metals different?
When choosing jewelry from a particular metal, you need to know that they differ not only in color, but also in some characteristics, cost, and markings.
Composition, strength and weight
White gold is obtained by creating an alloy based on yellow metal and a ligature. The latter includes the following elements:
- platinum;
- silver;
- nickel;
- palladium;
- zinc.
Thanks to the alloy, gold acquires the necessary strength and wear resistance, but at the same time remains quite ductile.
Silver in jewelry is also used in the form of an alloy, to which copper, lead, antimony, oxygen, and bismuth are added. They provide the necessary strength and wear resistance of the alloy. However, if we compare the strength characteristics of precious metals, the advantage will be on the side of gold.
Different densities of metals affect the weight of products. Depending on the composition and standard, the density of white gold is 12.85-16.44 kg/m3, and that of silver is 10.49 kg/m3. Accordingly, a gold ring will be heavier than its silver counterpart, given the same size and shape.
Effect of acidic environment
One of the advantages of white gold over silver is that it is not afraid of acid. That's why one of the most popular ways to test jewelry at home is to dip it in a container of vinegar. If the product contains aurum, it will not change its color.
Silver jewelry will make the liquid cloudy. Because of this reaction, they must be removed before cleaning.
Appearance and markings
White gold has a varnished appearance, while silver metal has a matte finish. With the special lighting available in every jewelry store, the jewelry may shine equally, but when worn, the difference will become more noticeable.
Based on this, in a salon environment, the difference between metals can be determined solely through markings. In the first case, a stamp is placed on the jewelry with the designation of the sample (585 or 750), enclosed in a blade or rectangle. In the second case, the sample (800, 830, 875, 925, 960) fits into the barrel.
Difference between different purity grades
Precious metals have differences not only among themselves. Products made from seemingly the same metal will also have differences depending on the sample. It is determined by the percentage of the main precious metal in the jewelry. Due to the difference in proportions, the density of the alloy, melting point, and hardness change. GOST-approved options based on silver and gold can be seen in the tables below.
Graduation of gold-based alloys:
| Try | Mass fraction of component, % | |||||||
| Gold (Au) | Silver (Ag) | Platinum (Pt) | Palladium (Pd) | Nickel (Ni) | Copper (Cu) | Zinc (Zn) | Cadmium (Cd) | |
| 585 | 58,5 | 25,0 | – | Ost. | – | – | – | – |
| 58,5 | 28,2 | – | 9,5 | – | – | Ost. | – | |
| 58,5 | 27,5 | – | 9,5 | – | – | – | Ost. | |
| 58,5 | – | – | – | 12,0 | Ost. | 3,6 | – | |
| 750 | 75,0 | 14,5 | – | – | 7,0 | – | Ost. | – |
| 75,0 | 14,5 | – | Ost. | – | – | – | – | |
| 75,0 | 8,5 | – | 13,5 | Ost | – | – | – | |
| 75,0 | 6,5 | – | 13,5 | Ost. | – | – | – | |
| 75,0 | 8,5 | – | 8,0 | 3,5 | – | – | Ost. | |
| 75,0 | – | – | – | 7,0 | Ost. | 2,1 | – |
Graduation of silver-based alloys:
| Try | Compound, % | Impurities, no more than % | |||||
| Silver (Ag) | Copper (Cu) | Lead (Pb) | Iron (Fe) | Antimony (Sb) | Bismuth (Bi) | Oxygen (O) | |
| 800 | 80,0-80,5 | ost. | 0,005 | 0,13 | 0,002 | 0,002 | 0,01 |
| 830 | 83,0-83,5 | ||||||
| 875 | 87,5-88,0 | 0,004 | 0,10 | ||||
| 925 | 92,5-93,0 | ||||||
| 960 | 96,0-96,5 | 0,08 |
Differences in guest standards and quality
The chemical composition, as well as the physical characteristics of white gold and silver alloys are regulated by law. Each product must comply with GOST 30649-99 “Alloys based on precious metals for jewelry.”
Price and demand
The difference between precious metals that immediately catches your eye is the cost of the products. The price of both yellow and white precious metals is much higher for a number of reasons:
- There are fewer gold veins in nature than silver ones;
- complex production technology;
- unique properties of yellow metal.
What stones are suitable
White gold is eye-catching even without inserts. However, bright precious stones make jewelry especially attractive: sapphires, emeralds, diamonds. Also popular are products that harmoniously combine several types of metals, such as white and yellow gold.
Silver jewelry, as a rule, is made with inserts of semi-precious stones and minerals: onyx, iolite, agate, jade, chrysoprase, rauchtopaz, morion. However, occasionally jewelers create collections based on precious inserts, for example with emeralds.
What is the difference between white gold and silver if the products have been rhodium plated?
If gold jewelry has been rhodium-plated to obtain the desired shade and physical properties, it is impossible to visually distinguish it from silver. In this case, only the mark on the product can help determine the metal used.
If the markings on your existing jewelry are not trustworthy, you can take it for chemical analysis. During the inspection, the metal is tested with acid. The main disadvantage of this method is that a trace of the reagent may remain on the product.
Advantages and disadvantages of white gold and silver
Silver has several positive aspects, but the main one is its low cost. With a wide range of choices, you'll always find what you need. Silver is also believed to have magical and healing properties. It calms, brings good luck, heals and cleanses.
Unfortunately, this metal also has disadvantages. The main one is that silver darkens over time and oxidizes. Because of this, it is not recommended to wear it every day, especially during illness and stressful situations. If the jewelry has lost its original shine, it can be cleaned with a special liquid sold in jewelry stores.
Many people associate gold jewelry, including white jewelry, with prosperity and wealth. Every woman, wearing it, feels more confident. In addition, gold products are less likely to become deformed and lose their attractiveness. The exception is rhodium-plated jewelry, which must be renewed periodically.
Another advantage of gold over silver is its high degree of ductility, which allows you to create more sophisticated and sophisticated products from it.
Which metal jewelry is best to choose?
The debate between those who love white gold and those who prefer silver has been going on for years. The choice depends on the cost of the jewelry and the attractiveness of the metal for a particular person. The decisive factor may be the body’s tolerance to one or another element of the ligature.
For example, nickel, found in some white gold alloys, often causes allergic reactions and itching.
Recommendations for care, cleaning and storage
It should be remembered that silver is afraid of acid, so any contact should be prevented. This also applies to working with household detergents. Also, jewelry made of both metals should be removed before visiting the pool, bathhouse, or sauna.
Decoration that has become coated or contaminated can be easily cleaned with special compounds; some folk methods also help.
How to identify white gold at home
- Method 1: Take a blank piece of paper and decorations. Run each item one by one over the paper, applying a little force. Gold will leave it unchanged, but silver will leave a trace.
- Method 2. You will need a glass of vinegar. Place the product in it and leave it for a while. Silver under the influence of acid will change color or cause the liquid to become cloudy.
- Method 3. Drop iodine onto the decoration. In this case, the silver will remain neutral, and a dark spot will form on the gold.
Customer Reviews
Katya: “My parents gave me my first silver ring for my fifteenth birthday, giving in to my requests to have an “adult” piece of jewelry. As a result, I was satisfied, and in terms of money it was quite acceptable.”
Olya: “When I was choosing jewelry, I didn’t notice much difference between silver and white gold, and therefore I chose to go with the first option. I wear it rarely, so I can’t say that it loses its attractiveness or gets darker.”
Conclusion
When choosing between two precious metals, remember that the jewelry should first of all please you and suit the outfit and occasion. In this case, it will bring joy.
If you want to learn more about the properties and features of each metal, subscribe to our account on social networks.
Source: https://zhazhdazolota.ru/dragotsennosti/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra
How to distinguish white gold from silver?
White gold is a symbol of prosperity. Jewelry made from this alloy not only looks presentable, but is also an excellent investment. Gold of any kind is always in price, and its value is growing every year. However, unscrupulous sellers may pass off other alloys as white gold. Read what white gold is and how to distinguish it from silver.
White gold is actively used in jewelry. Designers of famous European brands create unique products from this alloy. In addition, white gold goes well with precious metal inserts. Such jewelry is very popular all over the world. For example, a white gold ring with a diamond is the most purchased jewelry for an engagement with a beloved.
White gold earrings are no less in demand. They look amazing. Especially if they have inserts of precious stones in combination with an evening dress. Read about how to wear earrings correctly here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zO_poAblmw
Bracelets made of white gold look elegant and stylish. This metal is neutral, so it will suit almost any look, without overshadowing the bright details, but effectively complementing it.
In general, white gold jewelry captivated women with its originality and attractiveness. We'll tell you how white gold is made, what it consists of, and how it differs from yellow and silver.
White gold: composition and purity
What is white gold? This material for jewelry is obtained by alloying ordinary gold with other metals - silver, platinum, nickel or palladium. These substances give gold its color. Rhodium plating is used for added shine and shine.
Alloys with nickel are practically not used, since this material can cause skin irritation and allergies in many people. In EU countries there is a ban on the use of nickel in jewelry. In Russia, the composition of white gold and other alloys is regulated by GOST 30649-99.
What standard should white gold have? It can be 585 or 750 samples. The first means that the alloy contains 585 mg of pure gold, the second is indicated if the jewelry has inserts of precious stones.
How to distinguish white gold products from silver?
White gold jewelry is similar in appearance to silver jewelry. How can you tell them apart? There are several ways:
- If you look closely you can see that silver has a more matte tone than white gold. Despite the substances included in the alloy, gold by definition shines, which cannot be said about silver.
- Pay attention to the sample. Silver, as a rule, is 925, white gold – 585, 750.
- White gold is denser than silver. Pass the product along a sheet of paper. Silver will leave a mark, but gold will not.
- White gold does not dissolve in acid. If you dip the item in vinegar, the silver will tarnish and the liquid will become cloudy. Nothing will happen to gold. Of course, if a minimum of impurities were used in the material.
- Spray the decoration with iodine. High-quality white gold will not react and the iodine will easily be wiped off the product. There will be a clear mark on the silver that cannot be easily cleaned.
Like products made from any other material, white gold jewelry loses its original appearance over time. We'll tell you how to clean white gold at home.
Despite the differences in composition, white gold is cleaned in the same way as silver. You can buy a specialized product for cleaning jewelry or use proven traditional methods.
You can clean white gold with soapy water. Shampoo, dishwashing detergent or liquid soap will do. The jewelry is soaked in the solution for half an hour and then cleaned with an old toothbrush. Then you should rinse it in running water and wipe with a dry soft cloth.
The shine of white gold products will be restored by a solution of ammonia and water in equal proportions. Jewelry should be soaked in the solution for an hour, then rinsed and polished.
It is not recommended to clean white gold at home if you find damage to the item. In this case, you should contact a jeweler who will bring the jewelry into proper shape.
Source: https://www.lux-fair.ru/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra/
How to distinguish white gold from silver yourself? — Natural Treasures
White gold began to be considered a sign of nobility and good taste in secular circles in the 20s of the last century, especially in combination with black pearls and diamonds.
In our country, interest in it flared up with renewed vigor at the end of the century, and white gold jewelry to this day holds a high bar in the jewelry rating.
But how to distinguish it from cheaper, but equally light silver, if the diamond looks equally bright in both?
Note: You will not find pure gold in the jewelry industry - it is too soft for making jewelry. Therefore, copper, nickel, silver, etc. are added to it. The color depends on which metals are added, and the sample depends on their quantity. The higher the content of gold itself, the higher the fineness.
Noble shine
Silver and white gold are indeed very similar. How? Glitter, color and purpose. It was white metals that were considered the ideal setting for diamonds in the 1920s.
At first, an alloy of platinum and silver was used for this, since in its pure form it is difficult for jewelry processing. But silver tends to darken, and expensive items lost their attractiveness.
A solution was found experimentally: soft gold was mixed with different metals - the same silver, platinum, palladium and cheaper nickel.
Attention! A typical alloy of 18k white gold is: 750 parts gold, 55 parts copper, 145 parts nickel and 50 parts zinc.
Nickel is a fairly strong allergen and the cause of dermatitis. In 2000, in the countries of the European Union, out of concern for people’s health, this metal was banned from being added to white gold. Outside of Europe, nickel is still actively used.
Such a different white gold
It may vary. Surprised? But it is so. “White gold” can hide a whole range: from pale yellow to reddish. These “nuances” of color depend on the composition of the alloys with which the yellow metal is “diluted.” And to achieve a pure shine, the products are coated with a platinum group metal – rhodium.
It, like platinum, is much more expensive than gold and gives products that same noble color. About color nuances: if the product contains platinum, then you will see a steel-white shine. Palladium will give a slightly lower intensity.
Nickel will give a slight yellowish tint, but if you have jewelry with rhodium in your hands, you will notice a subtle bluish coldness in the shade.
- By the way! “Alchemists” (in the good sense of the word) from the jewelry industry have learned to make brown, gray, pink, green and even purple gold! It's all about the metals that are added to the pure product. Recently, black gold, obtained by adding cobalt and chromium, followed by laser processing and deep deposition of amorphous carbon, has been gaining popularity.
White glow: how to distinguish two metals
How to determine what is in front of you: an expensive piece of jewelry or a silver replica? It is quite difficult to visually distinguish whether what you have in front of you is white gold or silver, especially if the manufacturer has plated the silver item with rhodium. First of all, we look at the sample and mark.
White gold can be 585 or 750, silver is rarely below 800, and even then this is considered low-grade, has a yellowish tint and is used mainly for the production of tableware (925 is the most popular for jewelry).
The mark will also indicate the difference: on silver jewelry it usually has rounded sides, on gold jewelry it is rectangular. These differences are valid if you purchase jewelry in boutiques or salons, and not from hand. In the latter case, you can run into scammers: the “craftsmen” have learned to interrupt the stamps and draw the sample they need.
One effective way is to look into a pawn shop, if there is one nearby. They usually have instruments that determine the density of the metal.
If you still decide to take a risk, have already bought jewelry (or it was given to you), and doubts do not allow you to sleep peacefully, then open a home chemical laboratory.
Silver oxidizes: put the jewelry in vinegar, if it darkens, then this is not a luxurious piece of jewelry, but its brother.
Iodine will also cause the product to darken, but white gold can easily be removed from a dark iodine stain by rubbing it with a flannel cloth. We wish you to shine in real jewelry!
Source: https://22av.ru/osobennosti/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra-samostoyatelno.html
Differences between white gold and silver
Sometimes even specialists find it difficult to evaluate a piece of jewelry and determine what material it is made of. Silver, white gold and platinum are very similar in appearance - that's a fact. If there is such a metal as white gold, why do we need silver? Because they are significantly different.
You will get the answer to the question of how silver differs from white gold by reading this article in our online store to the end.
How to distinguish silver from gold?
Silver is the whitest among natural precious metals. This is often used to make different types of jewelry. It has the highest electrical and thermal conductivity, and therefore lends itself well to processing.
In its pure form, this jewelry material is not used because of its softness, but only its alloys. Therefore, instead of sample 999, the following is used:
- 925 contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper;
- 958 - a standard introduced in England in the 17th century - 95.8% silver and 4.2% copper.
Oxidized silver, which during the oxidation process is coated with a thin layer of its own oxide. Thanks to this, it is protected from destructive factors and additionally acquires a characteristic antique appearance.
What is white gold, how to distinguish it from silver?
White gold, which is becoming more and more popular every day, does not actually exist. It is nothing more than its alloy with nickel, zinc and sometimes also palladium, which change color. Thanks to them, the material becomes harder and more resistant to damage. Jewelry made from it is usually coated with a thin layer of rhodium, which gives it extra depth.
The physical properties of white gold can vary because they are determined by the content of alloying impurities. Most of its jewelry appears silver because it is plated with a layer of rhodium.
There is white, uncentered gold, which has the correct color and shine. The most popular example is 0.585 or 14 ct. But such metal quickly tarnishes and the protective coatings wear off over time.
7 ways to distinguish white gold from silver at home
Fraudsters profit from buyers who do not know how to distinguish white gold from silver by eye. Based on the cost of the precious metal, they are usually sold alloys with copper. The result is a cheap and short-lived material. To avoid confusion or scams, learn how to tell the difference between white gold and silver.
- Checking the hallmark and hallmark of the purchased jewelry. White gold is available with a rectangular or spatula-shaped hallmark. If inlaid with precious stones, it has a purity of 750 or 585. The easiest way to deceive the buyer is to sell white gold with a lower purity. The imagination of scammers knows no bounds. It is popular today to sell pattern 333 (8 ct) chains with fasteners that have a much larger pattern attached to them. The seller draws the buyer's attention to the mark on the fastener and diverts attention away from the mark on the correct part of the product.
- A magnetic test will help you understand the difference between white gold and silver. This metal has absolutely no magnetic properties, so the object should not vibrate. Silver also does not react to magnets. If the jewelry is made from an alloy, it should also not react to a magnet because the metals used in alloys are also diamagnetic. However, just because a silver ring reacts to a magnet doesn't mean it should be thrown in the trash immediately. It may not be made from a palladium alloy. Some of its impurities are paramagnetic, that is, they react to a magnet.
- Color change. White gold has a slightly golden tint, silver has a cool white, even grayish tint. It is always brighter than silver thanks to rhodium, which is applied by electroplating, that is, using direct current. Rhodium-plated surfaces or just individual jewelry elements acquire a light silver/snow-white hue, making them resistant to blackening and acquiring a beautiful shine. Gold and silver do not change color. Tarnishing occurs when jewelry is plated only with gold. Their surface layer wears off, and the metal underneath begins to react with water, air and dirt, and then changes its properties. Unsightly discolorations appear on its surface.
- Calculating density is a reliable, but more complex method of checking the authenticity of metal. It lies in the fact that each substance has different density values. For gold this parameter is 19.3 g/cm3, for silver - 10.5 g/cm3. To check the density of the metal in a purchased product, you need to prepare a glass vessel with water, and then calculate its volume using known formulas. Ideally, it would be an ordinary glass container in the shape of a tube - a test tube. Its volume is a derivative of the height, the radius of the base squared and the number pi (3.14). Then you need to place the decoration in the container and calculate the difference between the displaced water in cubic centimeters. Then you need to divide the number obtained earlier, the volume of the container, by the volume of displaced water. The desired density will be obtained. If the result is about 19.3 g/cm³, then the jewelry is gold, even though it is silver in color. If you get 10.5 g/cm³, then it is silver.
- Hardness test. Since silver is softer than white gold, it can be determined using a simple experiment. You just need to draw a line on the surface of the paper with a little effort. If a mark remains on the sheet, then it is silver. White gold leaves no traces.
- Acid treatment. Silver oxidizes and tarnishes easily, unlike white gold. To confirm this, mix some water and vinegar in a small container into which you place the jewelry you are testing. If its surface turns gray, it is silver.
- Reaction to iodine. Dip a toothpick in iodine and draw a thin line on the inside of the product. Iodine will enter into a chemical reaction with silver, leaving a trace. It will not show up on white gold, and you can wipe it off with a paper napkin or a dry soft cloth.
Home methods are not 100% reliable. To make sure that your ring, earrings or bracelet are made of quality metal, you should take them to a professional jeweler.
Source: https://silvers.in.ua/otlichiya-belogo-zolota-ot-serebra.html
How to visually distinguish white gold from silver and which is better?
There is an opinion that silver jewelry looks more noble than gold, and the yellow color ages and is suitable only for older ladies. White gold is loved for its delicate color, and like silver, it is very popular among young girls. But how to distinguish white gold from silver, and why is the second preferred to the former? Surely, it’s all about the color scheme and the composition of the alloys.
Differences between white gold and silver - advantages of metals
White gold is an excellent alternative to silver. Expensive metal, soft color, noble presentation in any image.
Compared to red or pink colored gold, the silver color of the white metal does not look as vulgar, even if you wear too much jewelry. But they love white metal not only for this.
At first glance, white gold and silver are similar; it is difficult to distinguish two identical metals. The only thing that catches your eye is the dark yellowish tint that white gold has. This also indicates the absence of rhodium in the alloy. If we talk about the advantages of the metal, then gold in the natural sense is more profitable than silver.
White gold has its advantages:
- indicator of wealth and luxury;
- noble healing metal;
- long-term investment;
- the ability to remake decorations;
- thinner and more durable products.
Silver has no ductility, but is also considered a noble metal that has healing properties. In medicine, when piercing their ears, girls were always recommended to wear gold or silver - metals did not cause allergies, and also contributed to the rapid healing of wounds. The aesthetic component plays a role - white gold is suitable for those who love silver, but want and can afford expensive jewelry. What is best to wear is the choice of the owner.
You can distinguish silver from gold using a hallmark. On white gold, the hallmark will be outlined in the shape of a spatula, on silver - in the shape of a barrel. Another difference is the hallmark; 925 is more often used in silver jewelry. If in doubt, you can have it tested at any pawn shop. Chemical analysis will show exactly what you are holding in your hands.
White gold is a heavy yellow metal, silver is a light white metal. The metals lend themselves equally well to heat treatment, are suitable for a number of industrial services, and are tightly alloyed with other types of metals.
Both of them do not interact with oxygen in any way, regardless of the ambient temperature. Silver products can be dissolved in sulfuric or nitric acid, or in hydrochloric acid - they cannot be deformed in any way.
Gold cannot be dissolved in any acid - this is the main advantage of the metal. In the production of jewelry, metals for alteration and melting are placed in thiosulfate - a solution that softens and tightens gold or silver. As a result of these processes, ore can be removed for concentrates of the substance. But if you add hydrogen, only silver will tarnish.
The cost of white gold varies from 80 to 130 dollars, silver - from 10 to 30 dollars per gram. These two metals are perfect for working with equipment - protective anti-corrosion coatings are applied. By adding platinum to both metal alloys, a triple concentrate of precious metals can be created. Parts made from it serve as a fuse for devices against overheating and combustion.
Storage and cleaning at home
Since both metals look very similar to each other, first you need to distinguish one from the other. At home, this process will require care and perseverance. There are two ways - visual and practical. Visually, the golden color can be determined from silver, but there are no guarantees. If you don’t trust your vision, let’s immediately proceed to the exact second method.
Methods for distinguishing white metals:
- Using iodine, it is enough to draw a thin strip on the gold - there will be no traces left on the surface of the gold. The iodine will disappear, and the decoration will remain the same color, without changes. If silver occupies a predominant amount in alloys, or if there is a silver product in front of you, the surface of the metal will react with it. As a result, you will receive a painted decoration, so this experiment must be carried out from the inside of the product.
- Hardness is determined using paper. If you have a silver bracelet or ring in front of you, run it along a sheet of paper, confidently pressing it into the surface. Gold will not leave marks or damage the paper sheet, but silver will leave a grayish imprint. The store will not allow you to conduct such experiments, so let's move on to the third method.
- Acidic environment. Any specialized store has such a service as testing metal in an aggressive environment. It’s not difficult to create the same alternative at home – just vinegar. Acidity is not a problem for white gold, but silver is “afraid” of it. Pour vinegar into a glass, place gold in it, and watch the reaction - if the color has not changed, then you have gold. Silver will give a cloudy tint to the liquid, like any fake.
When it has been possible to accurately determine the origin of the metal, you can begin the issue of cleaning and storage. Silver, compared to other noble metals, is the most fragile and sensitive. Cleaning should be carried out every 5-6 months, otherwise a black coating will appear on the products. There are several ways to clean silver at home:
-
Simple pollution. Wash your jewelry under warm water and dishwashing detergent or lye-free soap.
You are allowed to leave the jewelry in the bath and then wipe it with a soft toothbrush.
- Lightening the jewelry (without stones). 10% solution of citric acid and ammonia - wipe the product with cotton wool.
- Soda. Silver without stones can be placed in a container of boiling water, adding 3 tbsp. l. soda
White gold is refined in other ways. A good option at home is baby shampoo - wash your jewelry with it. An alternative medical option is 1 ampoule of ammonia and the same volume of water.
You can also use hydrogen peroxide. To add shine to gold items, prepare a water-based sugar solution and place the items there for 12 hours. Metal products with stones can also be cleaned using special solutions. They are bought in jewelry stores.
Source: https://gems-and-jewels.ru/otlichie-serebra-ot-belogo-zolota.html
White gold: how to distinguish expensive metal from silver
The special brilliance and beauty of precious metals attracted the attention of even primitive people. Their value has always been very high. Metals were used both as the first money for exchange for other values, and for making jewelry.
Even in ancient times, people noticed the extraordinary properties of some metals, native ingots of which were found in nature. They did not corrode and did not change their properties under the influence of negative environmental influences. This became the main factor in determining the degree of nobility of the sparkling chemical elements.
Until the 18th century, people knew only two noble metals; later platinum was discovered.
Gold
Gold is recognized as the most important precious metal in the world. It was known to people back in the Stone Age. As a rule, the noble metal was found in nature in the form of native ingots with small inclusions of ores or in an alloy with silver.
As a chemical element, gold has high thermal conductivity and low resistance. Its pleasant sunny color and shiny surface have made it the most popular metal for jewelry making. But for jewelry they use not pure gold, but its alloy with other metals. This gives the mineral additional strength, changes color and quality characteristics.
The most traditional is yellow gold. Alloys of copper and silver are used to make this type of metal. Depending on the ratio of these impurities, it acquires characteristic shades: reddish or lemon. In jewelry, the most common items are those with hallmarks of hallmarks 585 and 750.
Less common is red gold. It has a reasonable price due to its high copper content. Rose gold, thanks to its delicate shade and small inclusions of copper and silver, has become popular for making products from fashion jewelry houses.
There are several more rare alloys - green, black, blue and gray shades. Such colors are gaining popularity in jewelry and are becoming a field for experimentation.
One of the most desirable and popular alloys is white gold. How to distinguish it from silver and other alloys? Platinum, silver and even palladium are mixed into its composition. These impurities have a positive effect on the durability of the products, and the shade goes well with precious stones. Such jewelry emphasizes the status of the owner and has a more sophisticated appearance.
Silver
One of the oldest noble metals. It occurs in nature both in native form and as part of ores. Silver is no less ductile than gold, and also enters into chemical reactions more actively.
Silver jewelry has always been popular. Metal has an affordable price, and jewelry goes well with different skin tones, suitable for any age and for any gender. Such jewelry looks simple, but nevertheless always very elegant.
Signs of distinction
Of course, gold is much more expensive than silver. What other characteristics does white gold have? How to distinguish from silver and not overpay to scammers? The first and most important advice is not to buy jewelry in dubious places or secondhand.
External characteristics make white gold and silver very similar. How to distinguish?
A visual way to distinguish these two precious metals, of course, does not provide one hundred percent reliability, but nevertheless it can help highlight the external characteristics of products. If you look closely, you can see that silver does not shine so brightly because it does not have alloys characteristic of gold.
How to distinguish white gold from silver visually?
Of course, with the help of modern rhodium plating, silver can also be given its characteristic shine. And in order not to succumb to its influence, you can look at the sample, which must be present. Silver almost always has one hallmark - 925, and the numbers are stamped in the shape of a barrel, while the gold hallmark resembles a rectangle and can be 585 or 750 (with stones).
What common features do silver and white gold have in common? How to distinguish white gold alloy from silver? Let's look further.
White gold and silver - how to distinguish? Photos of jewelry will help with this. Gold products are characterized by special sophistication, originality and subtlety of work. This is not typical for silver products, and it is also not customary to place precious stones in silver.
What else can you do to understand that this is white gold, how can you distinguish it from silver using other methods?
You can check the authenticity of the metal using acids. At home, it is recommended to use vinegar. When in contact with acid, silver will color and tarnish, but gold will not lose its shine. At the same time, the acidic environment should also not lose its original appearance. If it becomes cloudy, then this may be a sign of various impurities in the metal and a signal of a fake.
As you can see, it is possible to distinguish noble white metals from each other. You just need to take a good look at the product or use vinegar.
Source: https://HochyVseZnat.ru/beloe-zoloto-kak-otlichit-ot-serebra-dorogoi-metall.html
How to distinguish white gold from silver at home
White gold began to be considered a sign of nobility and good taste in secular circles in the 20s of the last century, especially in combination with black pearls and diamonds. In our country, interest in it flared up with renewed vigor at the end of the century, and white gold jewelry to this day holds a high bar in the jewelry rating. But how to distinguish it from cheaper, but equally light silver, if the diamond looks equally bright in both?
Note: You will not find pure gold in the jewelry industry - it is too soft for making jewelry. Therefore, copper, nickel, silver, etc. are added to it. The color depends on which metals are added, and the sample depends on their quantity. The higher the content of gold itself, the higher the fineness.
How to distinguish white gold from silver
White gold products are especially popular in the jewelry market. White gold is a white gold alloy, an excellent alternative for gold connoisseurs and fans of white sparkling color and shine. Currently, the components used for the white alloy are platinum, palladium and silver.
If in the dashing 90s, it was believed that the more gold a person wore, the cooler his image, but today this is the first sign of bad taste and show-off.
Products made of white gold, no matter how massive they are, do not look as flashy as those made of yellow or red gold, and the proof of this is presented on http://gold.ua/products/ser-gi?f=cvet-metalla- belyy jewelry that looks solemn, noble, suitable for any look and age, eye and hair color.
Characteristics of silver and white gold
Although white gold is similar to silver, there are significant differences between these metals. Silver, unlike gold, oxidizes and darkens over time, losing its former visual appeal. White alloy gold jewelry does not fade, does not darken, and will delight you for many years.
In addition, gold is more ductile compared to silver, which allows jewelers to create real masterpieces of art. And the last argument is that gold is always a good investment, the price of which is growing every year.
How to avoid falling for a fake
Taking advantage of the popular fashion trend for white gold, many scammers manage to sell silver items, passing them off as precious metal. To determine what kind of metal you have in front of you, you must first look at the sample and the shape of the mark on the product. On gold jewelry the jewelry mark is rectangular or in the form of a spatula, on silver jewelry it is in the form of a barrel.
The external differences are that white gold shines brighter than silver, but if the silver product is plated with rhodium, which is often done, then it is very difficult to see this difference.
The most reliable method to distinguish gold from silver is to determine the volume of the product and its density, and compare the results obtained with a table of metal density. And again, the results will be 100% only if the jewelry is without stones.
If you are still confused by the price or appearance of the jewelry, it is better to seek help from a specialist, or conduct a chemical analysis (testing the metal with acid), but keep in mind that this method may leave a mark on the product.
It is difficult for a buyer to determine visually whether the jewelry in front of him is of high quality, and whether it is worth paying such a large amount for it.
Source: https://elmasmejor.org/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra.html
Sample as the simplest way to evaluate products
First of all, remember that genuine alloys must be branded and tested. Otherwise, the manufacturer is simply breaking the law. Different countries use special marks. The state imprint in Russia for both variants is of a girl wearing a kokoshnik. The difference lies in the outline: the silver metal mark is outlined with an oval, the gold mark is outlined with a line in the form of a spatula.
As for the sample, it is represented by the following figures:
- 750, 585, 375 for gold jewelry;
- 960, 925, 875, 830 for silver.
It is important to know the difference between white gold and silver, in addition to the hallmark and hallmark. Not all products have them, especially for antique cutlery or jewelry.
External distinctive features
Without the use of additional means, metal can be determined in a store by visual inspection. Remember: the color of the alloys and shine matter. Let's start with the shade. For silver ones it is “heavier”, that is, for gold ones it is lighter. Such a difference is not always noticeable on the shelves of jewelry stores due to special lighting. Before purchasing, it is recommended to wear the jewelry and inspect it in normal daylight in the presence of a consultant.
Now about the inherent shine. For gold accessories, it looks like lacquer, and the metal looks lighter. Silver ones also shine, but are characterized by a certain dullness. Another important feature is the ability of silver to change color.
True, such a difference between silver and white gold manifests itself over time, already during wear. As a result of exposure to air and hydrogen sulfide, silver alloys oxidize and turn black, but this does not happen with gold alloys. Also pay attention to hardness.
Products made of gold are stronger and difficult to leave scratches on.
We identify metal by sound and paper trail
There are two interesting methods for grading metal alloys. The first is based on the difference in hardness. You just need to throw the decoration on a flat surface. Silver will give a duller sound, and gold will give a clear and ringing sound. The only caveat here is that you either need to know exactly how a certain metal “sounds”, or have the original. If you are comparing two products, they should be approximately the same in weight and shape.
The second method, which tells how white gold is distinguished from silver, is to trace the jewelry over paper. The assessment is still based on hardness. You should use a white paper sheet and apply force when pressing. A gold accessory will leave absolutely no trace, while a silver one will leave a dull grayish line.
Test by oxidation reaction
Chemical inertness is considered a very significant distinguishing feature of alloys. Unlike silver, gold is more inert, that is, it does not react with absolutely any acidic substances. Acid testing is easy to do at home. The experiment can be carried out in two formats:
- Using vinegar. Pour vinegar at a concentration of 9% into a container and lower the product into it. Silver will change color, gold will not. By the way, this way you will also check the authenticity of the jewelry. Cloudy water indicates that this is not a real precious metal.
- Using citric acid. The differences between silver and white gold can be noticed by placing the product in a solution of water and citric acid. The proportion should be 500 ml per 100 g, respectively. The reaction is still the same - the first metal changes its color, but the second remains the same.
The methods are quite simple, because vinegar and citric acid can be found in every home.
Effect of chlorine on metals
The last reliable evaluation method to be familiar with is the effect of chlorine-containing substances. Here, everything can be used, starting from the simplest “Whiteness” or other bleach. The reaction, again, will be a change in color.
For a home “experiment,” apply a little chlorine-containing substance or pure chlorinated powder to the jewelry and leave it in this state for a few minutes. If the product reacts and darkens, then you are the owner of a silver alloy. The previous color without change indicates gold. Now you know how to distinguish white gold from silver visually or with the help of simple home experiments. This will help you not make a mistake in your choice.
Source: http://raskat97.ru/articles/ukrasheniya/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra/
What is the difference between white gold and silver and how not to confuse them?
Gold and silver are two noble metals that have been admired by women and men for many years and are a sign of wealth. You can emphasize your place in society with the help of expensive and beautiful jewelry, but how to distinguish white gold from silver and not buy a fake in a store?
Simple secrets
Silver is a softer metal than gold. Therefore, jewelry made from it often changes shape; gold is one of the strongest and most durable metals. Gold jewelry is difficult to bend, much less break.
White gold or silver: how to tell the difference?
Silver oxidizes; if you have doubts about the quality of the jewelry, you can take a clean sheet and run the product over it. Silver will leave a mark on the surface of the paper, but gold will not.
Silver is afraid of an acidic environment; to check the jewelry, just dilute a spoonful of vinegar in a glass of water and stir thoroughly. Then place the jewelry in the glass and wait a little. The silver will oxidize and the water will change color, becoming cloudy and opaque. If a white gold item gets into a glass of vinegar, then nothing bad will happen to it.
Silver can also be determined using iodine. A small strip of iodine is applied to the product; the silver jewelry will instantly become colored; it will not be possible to erase the stain from it. But nothing will happen to white gold. Iodine will not stain the product; it can be removed from the surface of the jewelry using a cotton swab.
How to recognize a fake in a store?
Silver and white gold are very similar, in most cases platinum is added to gold jewelry, but also other metals, including silver.
Choosing a product in the store
In a store, you can distinguish a fake from an expensive piece of white gold jewelry using:
- Visual inspection.
- Studying the sample.
- Inspection of precious stones.
Gold has a noble, cold shine that is difficult to compare with the shade of silver. This metal also has a shine, but it is not so glossy, but more matte. You can evaluate the decoration visually, but some manufacturers of products process them using radium.
Radium adds shine to silver items, so grading jewelry in this manner is unreliable.
Studying the sample will help you understand the decoration: for gold items it has the shape of a rectangle or is made in the shape of a spatula.
A sample made in the form of a barrel or a circle is put on silver.
White gold item with stones
One aspect to pay attention to is what metals are added to the white gold. If there are too many impurities, despite the sample, the decoration will be of poor quality.
White gold is most often combined with large pearls and diamonds; this “combination” is considered classic.
Over the years, silver changes color; it turns black when in contact with water and air. Therefore, if a piece of jewelry becomes covered with a dark or black coating too quickly, you should doubt its quality.
A jeweler will help you determine what metal the jewelry was made from. If the product is made of precious metal with a large number of impurities, then a specialist can easily recognize a fake. This verification method is considered one of the most reliable.
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Source: https://DedPodaril.com/zoloto/tipy/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra.html
How to distinguish white gold from silver and other metals
Many people believe that silver jewelry looks much more noble than gold jewelry. Especially when someone puts on tons of red gold, but this is already vulgarity. Not long ago, a new gold alloy, which has a white color, began to gain popularity. This new product will satisfy both gold lovers and fans of snow-white glitter.
Which is preferable?
Many people believe that silver jewelry looks much more noble than gold jewelry. Especially when someone puts on just tons of red gold, but this is already vulgarity. Not long ago, a new gold alloy, which has a white color, began to gain popularity.
This new product will satisfy both gold lovers and fans of snow-white shine. The beauty of white gold is that it does not look massive or flashy, and is also suitable for all ages. White color in jewelry can be suitable for both special occasions and everyday wear.
In addition, it will match with almost any wardrobe, skin and hair color.
Why buy white gold when you have silver?
Of course, silver is much cheaper than any gold alloy. Moreover, the metals look the same. But white gold alloy has its own advantages.
Properties of silver
The first place among the advantages of silver jewelry can be, of course, low cost and a fairly wide range of types of jewelry. Since ancient times, people believed that silver brings good luck to the wearer and protects from troubles. Some still claim that silver can have healing properties. In addition, when purchasing silver jewelry, you can in most cases be sure that it is not a fake. You can also safely wear silver every day.
But it is worth remembering the unpleasant fact that over time, silver oxidizes and acquires dark abrasions. This problem is considered the main disadvantage of metal.
Properties of gold
Again, even in ancient times, people regarded gold jewelry as a sign of a person’s wealth and high position. Of course, there were also signs associated with gold and belief in its magical properties. And the incomparable advantage of the white gold alloy is that it does not darken or tarnish over time. In addition, it has plasticity, which means there are a lot of opportunities to find original jewelry.
Rhodium plating of gold and silver
In order to increase the shine of the product, as well as to give it a greater degree of resistance to wear, many jewelers now coat gold and silver items with rhodium.
After this, distinguishing a white gold alloy from silver becomes an almost impossible task. In order not to be deceived by appearance, look at the product’s mark, as well as the shape of this mark.
Well, if doubts still remain, the only way to check is by chemical analysis of the composition of the product in a pawnshop.
In the selection of metal for jewelry, of course, there can be no advisers; this is a purely individual choice for everyone. But now you will know about the advantages and problems of each of the metals described, which means it will be easier to make this important choice.
2013-11-15
Source: https://siqnalrp.ru/stati-o-dragocennyh-metallah/216-kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra-i-drugih-metallov.html
Color
Silver has a beautiful white color. White gold has a grayish, steely hue, more like platinum. Polished products look almost the same. But if you pay attention to the inside, you will find areas in the recesses that differ in color.
Shine
Both metals have the same reflectivity. This means that polished surfaces differ slightly in gloss. However, silver has low oxidation resistance. Under the influence of the external environment, it fades very quickly, losing its shine. Gold retains its original appearance much longer. The difference is noticeable even on new products in store windows. Unless, of course, they are rubbed every day, which is unlikely.
Hardness
There is a big difference in the hardness of the most popular jewelry alloys. 925 sterling silver is much softer than 585 gold. If the jewelry is used, then the silver looks more worn, there are many small scratches. Gold is much harder, so it retains its shine longer.
- : Simple methods to restore beauty to jewelry
If you try to scratch the surface with a metal object, it will slip on gold and leave a scratch on silver. The main thing is to apply the same force in both cases. You can also use the ancient “tooth test” method. You will definitely feel the difference in firmness.
If the jewelry is a ring, try bending it. This does not mean that it needs to be turned into an oval. You will immediately feel how easily silver can be deformed. It takes a lot more effort to bend gold. You should not use this method for very thin rings weighing 1 - 2 grams.
Sound
This method is also based on the difference in hardness of the two precious metals. If you throw a ring on a hard surface, the sound of silver will be dull, and that of gold will be more ringing. It should be taken into account that only rings of a simple shape, approximately equal in weight, preferably without stones, are suitable for the experiment.
Oxidation
The high value of the yellow precious metal is due to its unique ability to retain its original appearance for centuries. Silver turns black very quickly when exposed to the environment. If there is a black coating, the conclusion is clear - it is not gold. The following determination method is based on this feature.
- Read: Why does a silver cross on the body turn black?
Chlorine
A very reliable way to distinguish two metals is to treat them with chlorine-containing preparations. The most famous and easily accessible is “Whiteness”. If you apply a drop of liquid to silver and hold it for about a minute, a noticeable black spot will remain. Gold will not react in any way to such a reagent.
Archimedes' Law
The density of 585 white gold is higher - about 13 g/cm³, for silver this figure is approximately 10 - 10.5 g/cm³. Sufficiently accurate scales are required for determination. This method cannot be used for jewelry with stones and hidden voids, as they give a large error.
Let's look at all the stages in detail:
- We weigh the product;
- We tie it to a thread;
- Place a container of water on the scales and reset the scales;
- We lower the decoration into the water, it is important that it does not touch the bottom or walls;
- The result of the first weighing is divided by the value obtained in the liquid.
If the numbers obtained are close to 10, you have silver, if from 12.5 to 13, 585 gold.
Brand
An important feature in the determination is the presence of a stamp of a state control organization of the established form. Two main differences.
The standard numbers on the print are different:
- 375, 585, 750 – gold;
- 830, 875, 925, 960 – silver.
If for some reason the numbers on the stamp cannot be seen, then they can be distinguished by the shape of the imprint. For gold - a square (with a woman in a kokoshnik), combined with a rectangle (numerical value). The shape of the mark for silver is in the form of a barrel. The presence of a laser-applied sample is a guarantee of the quality of the jewelry; it is technically difficult to fake. It is much easier to imitate a mechanical mark, although this is a criminal offense.
- This you need to know: Gold 14 K – what standard is it
Technological progress makes its own adjustments to the use of the above determination methods. Rhodium plating is especially popular in modern jewelry production. With the help of this technology, the color of white gold is improved, it becomes more like platinum. Silver's hardness and oxidation resistance are significantly increased.
Visually, such decorations are difficult to distinguish. Methods of determining by color and gloss are losing relevance. If you use several methods simultaneously, in combination, the result will be guaranteed to be reliable.
Source: https://999proba.com/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra/
Precious metals
Even in ancient times, people noticed the extraordinary properties of some metals, native ingots of which were found in nature. They did not corrode and did not change their properties under the influence of negative environmental influences. This became the main factor in determining the degree of nobility of the sparkling chemical elements.
Until the 18th century, people knew only two noble metals; later platinum was discovered.
How to distinguish white gold from silver: ways to distinguish, what to choose
Jewelry is designed to emphasize your individuality and create a unique image. However, expensive jewelry does not always look better on a person than a cheaper option. This is especially true for gold - sometimes it looks too provocative, which cannot be said about silver - a pleasant color, inexpensive price makes this jewelry accessible to everyone.
Recently, white gold has become increasingly popular. It is practically no different from the silver version, emphasizes the stateliness of the owner and looks beautiful on all women.
How to distinguish white gold from silver?
To avoid unwanted costs and eliminate fraud, you need to be able to distinguish between a gold product and its silver counterpart.
Ask the seller if the jewelry is rhodium plated. Jewelers plate both gold and silver items with rhodium to increase their durability and provide a long-lasting shine.
If there is such a coating, it will be very difficult for you to outwardly distinguish silver from gold.
Without rhodium plating, white gold jewelry has a slight yellow tint compared to silver. This shimmer is golden and barely visible, as befits a real gold product. However, it is better to buy a product coated with rhodium - and your jewelry will serve you for a long time.
How to distinguish silver jewelry from gold if it is plated with rhodium?
Most often, jewelers offer jewelry that is already plated with rhodium. How to determine that this is white gold and not silver jewelry? The answer is simple - hallmark tags for gold and silver products differ in shape. The tag for white gold jewelry will be rectangular or in the shape of a spatula, while for silver it will be in the form of a barrel.
Do not buy products without a sample tag - you may become a victim of a scammer.
Which product should you choose - gold or silver?
Let's look at the pros and cons of each metal.
Silver products - pros and cons
Silver products have a low price. Anyone can afford them. Silver jewelry is really difficult to distinguish from gold, so it will also perfectly decorate any woman, regardless of the color of her hair or skin.
One of the disadvantages is the darkening of the metal over time.
Due to oxidation, the metal acquires a dark tint and the beautiful shine disappears. It has been established that darkening occurs faster if a person is in a depressed state - the metal is affected by processes in the body. However, this darkening can be removed using ammonia diluted with water 1 to 10.
Gold products - pros and cons
Real white gold jewelry is much more expensive than silver jewelry. Not everyone will be able to purchase such a piece of jewelry, so white gold first of all shows the stateliness of the person who wears it. It emphasizes not only your individuality, but also your financial condition.
Gold is a soft metal, lends itself well to jewelers and gives you the opportunity to decorate the product with a personalized inscription.
Gold items have a magical property - it reduces the owner’s heart rate, calms him down, and relieves fatigue.
In addition, it is worth noting that white gold will serve you for a very long time - it does not darken, does not crack, and its shine will delight you for many years.
There is only one downside to gold items: they are expensive.
So what should you choose? The answer to this question is different for everyone. Some people prefer silver, others prefer white gold. In general, both of these metals deserve your attention, each of them is beautiful in its own way, each of them can decorate any of your outfits and make you irresistible.
Source: http://VseoZolote.ru/interesno/beloe-zoloto-i-serebro.html
