Apr 25, 2025

Can you Change a Yellow Gold Ring to White Gold?

Your engagement ring or favorite piece of jewelry may be perfect in every way—except for the metal color. If you’ve ever looked at your yellow gold ring and wondered, “Can I turn it into white gold?”, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we hear at The Diamond Guys, especially from clients exploring custom engagement rings and jewelry redesigns.

Let’s dive into whether it’s possible, what’s involved, and what to consider before you make the switch.

Why Some People Want to Change Yellow Gold to White Gold

Your taste in jewelry can evolve over time. Here are a few reasons clients come to us looking to transform a yellow gold ring into white gold:

You’re now wearing more white gold or platinum pieces and want a cohesive look
Your partner prefers the cooler, modern tone of white metals
You’re looking to update an heirloom or inherited ring
You simply feel white gold better complements your skin tone or style

The good news? There are a few different ways to achieve that transformation—and The Diamond Guys can help guide you through the best one for your ring.

Can You Replate Yellow Gold with White Rhodium?

Yes, but it’s temporary.

One of the most common methods is rhodium plating. Rhodium is a brilliant white metal that’s often used to coat white gold jewelry to give it a reflective, silvery finish. It can be used to coat yellow gold, but:

It’s only a surface layer
Over time, the yellow will show through as the plating wears off
It requires maintenance every 1–2 years to keep the white finish intact

Ideal for: Special events, temporary updates, or when you're not ready to fully commit to changing the metal.

Explore our in-store jewelry services to refresh or replate your ring with expert care.

Can You Permanently Change Yellow Gold to White Gold?

Not exactly—but you can recreate the ring in white gold using the same stones and design. This method involves:

Removing the original stones (diamonds or gemstones)
Melting or recasting new 14K or 18K white gold
Rebuilding the same—or an updated—design
Resetting your original stones into the new setting

While the original gold can sometimes be used for credit or trade-in value, white gold requires different alloy materials for its cooler tone and strength, so it’s not a direct conversion.

Thinking of an upgrade? Let us reimagine your ring in white gold for a fresh, timeless look that reflects who you are today.

Things to Consider Before Making the Switch

Before you start your redesign or replating project, think about the following:

1. Ring Condition

Older or thinner rings may be more difficult to rework. Our expert jewelers will evaluate your ring to make sure it’s suitable for modification or reconstruction.

2. Sentimental Value

If you love the original design, we can preserve the style while changing the color. Want a completely new look? Let’s create a brand-new setting using your existing stones.

Ask about our custom ring balance and setting adjustments to ensure long-term comfort and wearability.

3. Metal Preference

If you're unsure between white gold and platinum, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both. Platinum offers a naturally white hue with added durability, while white gold offers brilliance with slightly less weight and a different price point.

What About Two-Tone Designs?

Don’t want to part with your yellow gold completely? Consider a two-tone design that blends both yellow and white gold. It’s a great way to:

Honor the original ring
Add contrast and dimension
Create a unique design that stands out

From custom engagement rings to statement bands, The Diamond Guys can build a piece that blends tradition and personal style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my stones be safe during the process?

Yes. Our jewelers are trained to remove, reset, and handle diamonds and gemstones with the utmost care and precision.

How long does it take to redesign my ring?

Depending on complexity, ring redesign or recreation usually takes 2–4 weeks. We'll keep you updated every step of the way.

Is it more cost-effective to replate or redesign?

Rhodium plating is less expensive short-term, but it requires ongoing maintenance. Recasting the ring in white gold is a more permanent (and personalized) solution.

The Diamond Guys Make It Easy

Whether you're ready for a full transformation or simply testing the waters with a white rhodium overlay, The Diamond Guys offer the expertise and service you need.

Here’s what we provide:

Custom engagement ring redesigns
GIA-certified natural and lab-grown diamonds
Ring resizing, repairs, and metal transitions

Expert advice tailored to your taste, lifestyle, and goals

Visit us at www.thediamondguys.net to explore your options or book an appointment today.

Final Thoughts: Reinventing What You Already Love

An engagement ring is more than metal and stone—it’s a symbol of your story. If that story is evolving, your ring can evolve with it.

With The Diamond Guys, you’re not just getting a service. You’re getting personalized attention, honest advice, and stunning results from a team that’s been helping clients say "yes" for years.

Ready to transform your yellow gold ring into white gold?

Let’s make it shine in a way that feels just right for you.