White Gold vs Yellow Gold : Buying and Selling Gold Jewellery

White gold and yellow gold are two of the most popular metals in jewellery. Whether you want to buy or sell gold jewellery, it is essential to understand the differences between these two types of gold to make an informed choice. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, which affect the aesthetics, maintenance, and durability of the jewellery.

Composition and Appearance of Yellow & White Gold

Yellow gold is an alloy of pure gold (often 18 karats) mainly mixed with copper and zinc, giving it its natural, warm, and classic golden colour. White gold, on the other hand, is an alloy of pure gold with white metals such as palladium or nickel, often plated with rhodium to give it a modern silvery shine.

Buying Gold Jewellery

Yellow gold is appreciated for its traditional look and durability. Its warm tone perfectly complements darker or olive skin tones, and it resists shocks well, making it ideal for everyday jewellery like wedding bands or engagement rings. It requires minimal maintenance since its colour does not fade or change over time. However, yellow gold can seem less modern and may not highlight colourless diamonds as effectively as white gold, which can influence personal style preferences.

White gold offers a contemporary and elegant aesthetic. Its silvery shine highlights diamonds and other precious stones beautifully, attracting many modern buyers. The rhodium plating protects the metal and gives it lasting brilliance. On the downside, white gold requires regular maintenance because the rhodium plating wears off every 2 to 3 years and needs re-plating. Some white gold alloys contain nickel, which can cause allergic reactions for sensitive skin. White gold is also generally more expensive due to its alloy composition and plating.

Selling Gold Jewellery: What to Consider

When selling gold jewellery, knowing the type of gold you own helps maximize value. Yellow gold retains its value well thanks to its classic appeal and durability. Its warm colour remains stable without special upkeep, which appeals to buyers seeking timeless pieces. Resale price depends largely on purity (karats) and weight.

White gold, while valuable, requires disclosure about plating condition since worn rhodium can expose a yellowish tint beneath. Professionally re-plating before sale can improve appeal and price. White gold’s modern look tends to attract younger buyers or those seeking contemporary styles.

In both cases, having an accurate appraisal or certification of metal purity and gemstones is essential to build buyer trust and optimize resale value.

Buying or Selling Gold Jewellery in Montreal?

Whether you want to buy gold jewellery or sell gold jewellery, the experienced team at Le Lion d’Or provides accurate appraisals and fair market prices right on-site. We carefully test and evaluate every piece, including branded and vintage items, ensuring you get the best value. 

Visit us in Montreal for a free, no-obligation appraisal and personalized service. Turn your precious white or yellow gold jewellery into cash or find a perfect new treasure with confidence. Contact Le Lion d’Or today and experience honest, professional expertise you can trust. We have been your trusted local expert since 2006, offering fast, secure, and transparent services for buying and selling gold jewellery, diamonds, watches, and other fine pieces.