Palladium: The New White Metal

Palladium is a member of the Platinum group of metals. It was first discovered in 1803, but not until recently has it gained popularity in the manufacturing of jewelry. Many designers prefer Palladium to white gold for several reasons; It is less expensive than white gold, 15% more durable, hypoallergenic, and more pure. To me, the greatest advantage of palladium over white gold is its natural whiteness.

Pure gold is yellow. It is mixed with other metals such as zinc and nickel to make it white. A 14k gold ring contains 58% gold and 42% other metals. However, white gold will always have a tint of its natural yellow color. White gold is most often coated with rhodium, a white hard metal, to hide the yellow tint. As the result of normal wear, the rhodium plating on white gold will wear away and the yellow tint will reappear.

Palladium is naturally white and 95% pure. So, it will always be white and doesn’t need to be plated with rhodium. This metal is most commonly used in the manufacture of engagement and wedding rings. However, more and more jewelry is being made from palladium. Stop by your nearest Day’s store and we’d be happy to show you our collection of Palladium jewelry including the newest addition, the “Joined Heart” pendant.

Click here to learn more about Palladium. Please feel free to email me with questions about Palladium or any other information regarding fine jewelry. I welcome your thoughts,stories, ideas, and suggestions, jcorey@daysjewelers.com . I personally respond to every email.