Palladium is a rare, naturally white precious metal that belongs to the platinum group of metals (PGMs). It has emerged as an increasingly popular choice for wedding bands and fine jewelry, offering many of platinum's best qualities — natural white color, durability, and hypoallergenic properties — at a lighter weight and often a more accessible price point.
What Is Palladium?
Palladium (element 46, symbol Pd) was discovered by English chemist William Hyde Wollaston in 1803. It is one of the six platinum group metals and shares many physical properties with platinum. Like platinum, palladium is naturally white, does not tarnish, and is hypoallergenic.
Jewelry-grade palladium is typically 950 palladium (95% pure palladium, 5% ruthenium or other alloys). This high purity — comparable to 950 platinum — means that what you see in a palladium ring is almost entirely the precious metal itself, not alloy fillers.
Palladium vs Platinum vs White Gold
| Property |
Palladium |
Platinum |
White Gold (14K) |
| Natural Color | White | White | Yellow (rhodium plated) |
| Purity | 950 (95%) | 950 (95%) | 585 (58.5%) |
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Medium |
| Density (g/cm3) | 12.0 | 21.5 | 12.0 – 14.0 |
| Hardness | 4.75 Mohs | 4 – 4.5 Mohs | 3.5 – 4 Mohs |
| Tarnish | Never | Never | Rhodium wears off |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes | Often no (contains nickel) |
| Resizable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price (wedding band) | $400 – $800 | $600 – $1,500 | $300 – $800 |
Why Choose Palladium?
Naturally white forever: Unlike white gold, which is actually yellow gold plated with rhodium, palladium is naturally white all the way through. It will never reveal a yellow undertone because there is none. You will never need rhodium replating — a significant long-term cost and maintenance advantage over white gold.
Lightweight comfort: Palladium is approximately 40 percent lighter than platinum. If you love the look of platinum but prefer a lighter ring, palladium delivers the same aesthetic at nearly half the weight. Many people find palladium rings more comfortable for all-day wear.
Hypoallergenic: Like platinum, palladium is safe for sensitive skin and does not cause allergic reactions. This makes it an excellent alternative for anyone who reacts to the nickel found in many white gold alloys.
Precious metal value: Palladium is a genuine precious metal, rarer than gold. It carries real value, is hallmarked (950 Pd), and is recognized by all major jewelry markets. Unlike alternative metals such as tungsten or titanium, palladium jewelry holds meaningful resale value.
Durable for daily wear: Palladium is slightly harder than platinum, making it slightly more scratch-resistant. It holds up well to daily wear and maintains its finish. Like platinum, palladium develops a soft patina over time that many wearers find attractive.
Considerations
- Less common: Palladium is less widely available than gold, platinum, or silver. Fewer jewelers stock palladium pieces, and custom work may be harder to find.
- Fewer design options: Because it is a newer jewelry metal, the selection of palladium designs is more limited compared to gold or platinum.
- Price volatility: As an industrial metal (used heavily in catalytic converters), palladium prices can fluctuate significantly based on supply and demand factors outside the jewelry market.
- Soldering differences: Palladium requires specialized soldering techniques. Not all jewelers are experienced working with palladium, so repairs should be done by someone familiar with the metal.
Caring for Palladium Jewelry
Palladium is remarkably low-maintenance:
- Cleaning: Warm soapy water and a soft brush — the same method used for gold and platinum. See our jewelry cleaning guide.
- No replating needed: Unlike white gold, palladium never needs rhodium replating.
- Patina: Over time, palladium develops a soft matte patina. Many people love this aged look. If you prefer the original high polish, a jeweler can buff it back to a mirror finish.
- Storage: Store separately from harder gemstones that could scratch the surface. See our storage guide.
Who Should Choose Palladium?
Palladium is ideal for anyone who loves the look of platinum or white gold but wants a lighter ring that never needs replating. It is perfect for people with metal allergies, those who value precious metal authenticity, and couples looking for an elegant alternative to the more common gold and platinum wedding bands.
Compare palladium with other metals in our comprehensive metals guide or browse our wedding band collection.