Platinum vs Palladium: What's the Difference?
TL;DR: Platinum and palladium are both naturally white, hypoallergenic metals from the same platinum family, but palladium is considerably lighter and typically more affordable. Platinum is denser and the more established choice for fine jewellery; palladium suits buyers who want a genuinely white, low-maintenance metal at a lighter weight and lower cost.
What They Have in Common
Both platinum and palladium belong to the same family of precious metals and share key practical advantages: both are naturally white with no plating required, both are hypoallergenic and well suited to sensitive skin, and neither requires the ongoing rhodium replating that white gold does. See our metal comparison guide for how these compare against gold more broadly.
Where They Differ
Weight. Platinum is notably dense and heavy for its size, giving rings a substantial, weighty feel some buyers specifically want. Palladium is considerably lighter — roughly half the density of platinum — which suits buyers who find heavier metals uncomfortable for daily wear.
Cost. Palladium is typically more affordable than platinum, gram for gram, making it an accessible way to get a genuinely white, low-maintenance precious metal without platinum's premium.
Market availability. Platinum remains the more established and widely available choice in fine jewellery; palladium is less commonly used, which can mean a narrower range of ready-made options, though this matters less for a bespoke commission built from scratch either way.
Durability. Both are durable, hardwearing metals, though platinum's density gives it a slight edge in resisting wear over many decades of use.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose platinum if weight and the most established, widely recognised choice matter to you. Choose palladium if you want the same naturally white, hypoallergenic, low-maintenance properties at a lighter weight and generally lower cost.
Choosing at À Vie Diamonds
Get in touch to discuss which metal suits your design and how you'll wear the piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is palladium cheaper than platinum? Typically, yes — palladium is generally more affordable gram for gram than platinum.
Is palladium as durable as platinum? Both are durable, hardwearing metals suitable for daily wear, though platinum's higher density gives it a slight long-term edge.
Is palladium hypoallergenic? Yes — like platinum, palladium is naturally hypoallergenic and well suited to sensitive skin.
Last reviewed: July 2026 · À Vie Diamonds