White gold is an alloy of gold and a metal such as nickel, manganese, or palladium. This stunning metal is durable, valuable, and more affordable than other high-end metals, including platinum. For this reason, many people choose white gold settings when shopping for engagement rings.
You may never want to take off your beautiful white gold ring once it’s on your finger. But, should you take it off before engaging in certain activities? Can you wear a white gold ring in the shower, for instance? Here’s what you should know:
Wearing A White Gold Ring in the Shower
There’s nothing wrong with getting white gold wet, so the water running in your shower will not damage your white gold ring. However, it’s still strongly recommended that you take the ring off prior to showering. Why? First, it’s possible that the ring could slip off of your finger and fall down the drain in a blink of an eye. Recovering a ring that has fallen down the drain is a plumbing nightmare that should be avoided at all costs.
This isn’t the only reason why you shouldn’t wear your white gold ring in the shower. Many body washes and soaps are designed to exfoliate your skin, which means they contain abrasive components that could scratch or dull the surface of the metal. It’s best to keep your white gold ring out of the shower to minimize its exposure to these harmful products.
How to Care For White Gold Rings
Taking your ring off before you jump in the shower can preserve its beauty and shine. There are a number of other ways to care for white gold rings so they look as good as new for as long as possible. Take the ring off prior to swimming in a pool or using household cleaners. If you prefer to keep it on while you clean, wear protective gloves so the harmful chemicals do not make contact with the white gold.
You should also get in the habit of cleaning your white gold ring on a regular basis. Don’t purchase special cleaners—simply use warm water and a mild dish detergent. Soak the white gold in the soapy water for about 20-25 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub residue from the nooks and crannies of the ring. Finally, carefully dry the ring off using a non-abrasive soft cloth. Repeat these steps about once a month or every other month to keep your ring in good condition.
Over time, the rhodium plating on your white gold ring may start to wear away. If the ring starts to look a bit yellow, this means it’s time to replate it. Take it to a reliable jewelry store and ask a professional to apply a fresh layer of the standard rhodium coating. This should not cost more than $100-200, and it will completely restore the white gold’s natural beauty.
This may seem like a lot of work, but there’s no need to panic. White gold is a low maintenance metal that will last for decades as long as you spend a little bit of time caring for it every now and then. By following these tips, you can wear your breathtaking white gold ring for the rest of eternity!
