Why is My White Gold Ring Giving Me a Rash?

If your white gold ring is making your finger itch, turn red, or break out in a rash, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues people search for when it comes to jewelry allergies. The good news is: it doesn’t mean you can’t wear your rings, and it doesn’t mean your jewelry isn't "real”. Most of the time, the problem isn’t with the gold itself but with the other metals mixed in to make white gold strong and bright. In this post, I’ll explain why white gold can cause irritation, the difference between white gold and platinum, and what you can do if your ring is giving you a reaction.

Why is My White Gold Ring Giving Me a Rash?

Nickel: The Usual Suspect

The majority of skin reactions to white gold can be traced back to nickel. Nickel is a strong whitening agent and a common component in 10k and 14k white gold alloys, but it’s also one of the most common skin allergens. For sensitive wearers, prolonged contact leads to itching, redness, and sometimes blistering.

Even if your white gold ring never bothered you when you first started wearing it, irritation can show up later once the rhodium layer thins and the nickel containing gold alloy begins to touch your skin directly.

What is an Alloy?

Pure gold (24k) is usually too soft for everyday jewelry, so it is standard for alloys (other metals) to be added to the mix to strengthen the metal. In the case of white gold, nickel or palladium is often included to help achieve its white color.

Not all white gold rings contain nickel, but is standard practice in the jewelry industry. At Exodus Goldsmiths, I offer a nickel-free palladium white gold alloy to prevent this problem!

Alloy Type	Gold Content	Common Metals in Mix	Durability	Skin Sensitivity Risk	Notes
10k White Gold	41.7%	Nickel, zinc, silver	Very strong	High (nickel-heavy)	Budget-friendly but most likely to irritate sensitive skin.
14k White Gold	58.3%	Nickel, palladium, silver	Strong	Moderate to High	Most popular for engagement rings; often contains nickel.
18k White Gold	75%	Palladium, silver, zinc	Softer	Low (if nickel-free)	More luxurious; palladium blends are gentler on skin.
Palladium White Gold	Varies (often 14k or 18k)	Palladium, silver	Strong	Very Low (hypoallergenic)	Premium choice; whiter color without nickel.

What you can do if your white gold ring is causing irritation:

• Re-plate the ring: A jeweler can polish your ring and apply a new rhodium coating, which creates a barrier between your skin and the metal underneath. Rhodium is a hypoallergenic metal, so it will not cause a reaction with your skin. BUT, it will wear away again with continuous wear.

• Switch to a nickel-free alloy: If you’re designing a new piece, ask your jeweler about palladium white gold.

• Wear a ring liner: Small plastic or silicone guards can provide a temporary buffer.

• Consider a redesign in platinum: For people with sensitive skin, platinum is often the most comfortable long-term choice. Read on for more about platinum vs. white gold!

White Gold vs. Platinum

Appearance: Both are White, But Not Quite

Both metals have a silvery-white look that complements diamonds beautifully.

• White Gold is naturally yellow and mixed with alloys like nickel or palladium, then finished with a rhodium plating to give it that bright white shine.

• Platinum is naturally white and does not require plating, though it will develop a soft patina over time—a quality many people find romantic and vintage in feel.

• Quick tip: If you want something that stays “ultra bright” over time, white gold will likely require re-plating every 6 months to 1 year, while platinum keeps its tone eternally with less maintenance.

Durability & Weight: What’s Tougher?

• Platinum is denser and heavier, making it feel more substantial on the hand. It's also more malleable, which means it can better hold diamonds securely—but it does scratch more easily, developing an almost satin finish.

• White Gold is harder (because of its alloy mix), which helps resist surface scratches—but over time, the rhodium layer wears off and needs frequent refinishing.

Bottom line: Platinum is often preferred for people who want the most secure setting for their stones, while white gold is a great balance of strength and shine with a lighter feel.

Cost: The Big Difference

• White Gold in most engagement rings is 58.4% pure gold, and costs significantly less.

• Platinum costs more due to its rarity, purity (usually 95% pure), and weight.

For budget-conscious couples or those reserving more funds for a larger center stone, white gold is a popular choice. If longevity and low-maintenance beauty are priorities, platinum may be worth the investment.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose white gold if:

• You want a bright white look at a lower cost

• You don’t mind occasional re-plating

• You prefer a lighter-feeling ring

Choose platinum if:

• You are allergic to the nickel in standard white gold jewelry

• You want something ultra-durable and low-maintenance

• You like the feel of a heavier ring

• You have sensitive skin or allergies

Final Thoughts

A ring should be a symbol of love and beauty—not discomfort. If your white gold ring is giving you a rash, you’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you can’t wear fine jewelry. Often, the issue is with the alloy rather than the gold itself, and solutions range from a simple re-plating to an upgrade into platinum.

As a goldsmith, I love helping people find the balance between beauty, durability, and comfort. Whether you’re choosing your first engagement ring, redesigning an heirloom, or troubleshooting an old favorite, the right material choice makes all the difference.

At Exodus Goldsmiths, I'll help you choose the metal that fits your lifestyle, your values, and your love story. Whether you’re starting fresh or redesigning something meaningful, I'm here to craft the piece you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Fill out the Questionnaire to explore your custom ring in platinum or white gold—your forever starts here.