The Beauty of White Gold: An Inert and Safe Option for Sensitive Ears

Understanding White Gold

White gold is not a naturally occurring metal; it is a combination of pure gold and other alloys. While gold itself is a very soft and malleable metal, it is often alloyed with other elements to enhance its strength and durability. Gold is also naturally yellow in color, so mixing it with other metals allow the silvery white hue to be more prominent. In the case of white gold, the primary alloying metals that are commonly used are nickel, palladium, silver, or zinc. This combination results in a stunning white-colored gold that exhibits a similar appearance to platinum, but at a more affordable price point.

Inert Nature of White Gold

The term "inert" refers to the lack of reactivity or chemical activity of a material. In the context of jewelry, inert metals do not readily react with the skin or body chemistry, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions like allergies or irritations. Our white gold's inert properties can be attributed to the alloys used in its composition and the final plated layer being rhodium, which one of the six platinum group metals. While some other metals can cause skin sensitivity, using rhodium as the final layer that touches the skin ensures that the carefully chosen combination of alloys in our white gold remains stable and non-reactive. Rhodium also has high reflectance so in addition to the inert nature, it is also has a beautiful luster.

Hypoallergenic Characteristics

Hypoallergenic materials are those that are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Both yellow gold and white gold are considered to be hypoallergenic. White gold in particular has earned a reputation as a hypoallergenic alloyed metal. We started Valensole Jewelry as a result of being individuals that have severe sensitivities and irritation to most other metals (including those deemed hypoallergenic like titanium), so we ensured that our white gold would be suitable and comfortable option for those who are in this same situation. Using rhodium as the plating material was our solution to minimize skin irritation risks. We’ve noticed that a vast majority of our customers with extremely sensitive ears, or even those that are going through bouts of irritation, have come to the same conclusion that wearing our white gold jewelry allows for a pleasant and comfortable experience.

Proper Care for Long-Lasting Comfort

It’s our hope that discomfort is not the reason you can’t wear your jewelry! We design our jewelry to be comfortably worn all the time and through all activities, including sleeping and showering. While white gold is generally inert and safe for sensitive ears, proper care is still essential to maintain its quality and prevent potential skin irritation. Regular cleaning and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials can help preserve the metal's luster and integrity. Washing with soap and water while in the shower, and an occasional deeper cleaning with a soft bristled toothbrush and some soapy water are enough for maintenance.

Conclusion

White gold has captured the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts worldwide for its captivating beauty and versatility. Its inert nature makes it an ideal choice for individuals with sensitive ears looking for options to help with irritation. Embracing white gold jewelry allows you to indulge in elegance and sophistication without compromising on comfort. So, whether you're looking for something to express your style or celebrate a special occasion, white gold jewelry is sure to be a timeless and safe choice for years to come.