Yellow Gold or White Gold for Your Engagement Ring?

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll ever make — and one of the biggest questions couples ask is:
Should I choose yellow gold or white gold?

Both metals are timeless, durable, and stunning in their own way. But depending on your style, lifestyle, and even skin undertone, one may suit you better than the other.

At MH2 Diamond, we specialise in custom engagement rings and fine jewellery in Vancouver, helping couples find a ring that reflects their story. Here’s everything you need to know before choosing between yellow and white gold.

What Is the Difference Between Yellow Gold and White Gold?

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold is the classic, traditional choice for engagement rings. Its warm tone comes from a mixture of pure gold with alloys such as copper and silver.

Key qualities:

• Naturally warm and rich colour

• Hypoallergenic when high-karat (18K and above)

• Vintage, timeless aesthetic

• Easy to maintain

White Gold

White gold is created by mixing pure gold with metals like palladium, nickel, or silver, and then coated with rhodium to achieve a bright, platinum-like shine.

Key qualities:

• Modern and elegant appearance

• Enhances the brilliance of diamonds

• More scratch-resistant than yellow gold

• Requires occasional rhodium replating

Which Gold Looks Better With Your Skin Tone?

Many couples choose their metal based on how it looks on their hand.

Yellow Gold complements:

• Warm skin tones

• Olive or deeper complexions

• People who love a vintage or royal look

White Gold complements:

• Cool or neutral skin tones

• Fair skin

• Anyone who prefers a clean, modern, bright finish

If you’re unsure, visit MH2 Diamond in Vancouver—our team will guide you and show how each gold looks on your hand.

Diamond Shapes That Shine in Each Metal

Best diamond shapes for yellow gold:

• Oval

• Cushion

• Round brilliant

• Pear

Yellow gold enhances contrast, making diamonds appear brighter.

Best diamond shapes for white gold:

• Emerald

• Asscher

• Princess

• Marquise

White gold blends seamlessly with the diamond, making it look larger and more brilliant.

Durability and Maintenance

Yellow Gold

• Softer than white gold

• Shows scratches slightly more

• Easy to polish

• No coatings required

White Gold

• Stronger and more durable

• Retains shine with rhodium plating

• Replating recommended every 1–2 years

Which Is More Popular for Engagement Rings in Vancouver?

In Vancouver, white gold remains the top choice for engagement rings thanks to its modern look and ability to enhance diamond brilliance.
However, yellow gold is making a strong comeback among younger couples who want something warm, bold, and timeless.

At MH2 Diamond, we see both metals equally requested for bespoke designs — it all depends on your personal style.

Cost Comparison: Yellow Gold vs. White Gold

The price difference between yellow and white gold is usually minimal.
However, white gold may require long-term maintenance costs due to rhodium plating.

Both remain excellent, luxurious options for an engagement ring.

How to Choose the Best Metal for Your Engagement Ring

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you prefer a classic or modern style?

• What colour jewellery do you wear daily?

• What is your skin tone?

• How important is low-maintenance jewellery to you?

Still unsure?
Our Vancouver jewellery specialists at MH2 Diamond can guide you through the entire process — from selecting the perfect gold to choosing the ideal diamond cut.