Pretty in platinum...
Platinum, probably the best-known luxury metal, is a brilliant white alloy that enchants jewelry lovers. Although platinum looks delicate, it is incredibly strong and can outlast most metals, making it ideal for heavily worn pieces.
In this article we will discuss:
- The composition and properties of platinum
- How platinum compares to other white metals
- When should you choose platinum for your jewelry?
- How to care for platinum
- Where to buy high quality platinum pieces
Table of contents
Basics: What is Platinum?
What color is platinum?
Platinum metal has a white luster that complements all gem colors, especially the sparkle of a white diamond. It is widely used in wedding jewelry due to its luxurious sheen and portability, and its color does not fade over time.
While its appearance is very similar to white gold, platinum is mined at about 10% the rate of gold. As such, it is a rare and precious metal, valued by many for its scarcity.
What is the composition of platinum?
Platinum is an "alloy" which means it is a combination of metals.However, unlike other alloys, platinum is typically 95% pure. The other 5% is usually copper, titanium, palladium, iridium, or rhodium. Because platinum is so strong, it's also not very malleable, so designers use other metals in platinum alloys for ease of processing.
How do I know how pure my platinum is?
Designers try to keep platinum pieces as pure as possible for durability. However, not all jewelers use 95% platinum and there are ways you can ensure you are buying quality products next time you shop.
Jewelry makers use "Trademark', indicating the purity of the metal, and can be found on the inside of ring shanks, near the clasps of platinum chains, or on the backs of pendants.
📝A 95% platinum piece will have a 950, PLT, PLAT or PLATINUM hallmark to denote its purity. That means the piece is 950 parts per thousand platinum, or 950/1,000. But not all companies use 95% platinum.
Here are a few other platinum hallmarks to see while shopping:
| Mark | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 950, PLAT, PLT or PLATINUM | 95% platinum |
| 850 | 85% platinum |
| 800 | 80% platinum |
| 750 | 75% platinum |
| No label | Less than 50% platinum |
Exploring the properties of platinum
Platinum is an exceptional metal across the board, but there are a few qualities that set it apartstand out from the crowd. Here are some properties of platinum that make it a great choice for jewelry:
durability
Platinum is very durable, but not in the way most people think. When buyers buy platinum, they often assume it won't scratch. In reality, platinum is and does be softer than some metalsScratches on rough contact.
⚠️However, no platinum is lost during the scratching process.Rather, the metal simply moves from one spot to another, meaning big hits don't cause metal loss. Also, this movement of metal is easily fixed with a deep polish, while other metals may need to be replaced.
In addition, platinum is very dense. If you place a thick platinum band in one hand and an equally thick gold band in the other hand, you may find that the platinum band is noticeably heavier.⚖️This density is importantfor diamond settings, as the platinum provides increased security holding the stones in place without fear of snagging and breaking a pin.
longevity
Platinum is a tarnish-resistant metal, so you don't have to worry about tarnishing the shine of your jewelry. Tarnishing occurs when metal is exposed to water, air, and general moisture over time. When this happens, the metal oxidizes and a darker sheen appears on the surface of the piece. Not only is platinum incredibly durable, but it retains its color for a lifetime.
hypoallergenic
Finally, platinumhypoallergenic. Because platinum is 95% pure, it doesn't contain the nickel impurities that cause other metals to irritate your skin. That said, platinum is ideal for extended, comfortable wear!
Platinum vs. other white metals
How does platinum compare to other white metals? Let's take a look at how these metals stack up:
Platinum vs White Gold
What's the difference betweenwhite goldand platinum?
Both metals have a beautiful white gold luster, but platinum tends to shine brighter naturally. White gold is also not hypoallergenic due to the nickel in its alloy, making platinum a better choice for wearers with allergies.
Although an ounce of gold currently sells for about $1,300 and the price of platinum is about $850 per ounce, platinum jewelry costs more than gold jewelry. This is because platinum jewelry is 95% pure, while 14k white gold is only 58.8% gold.
Platinum is also inherently durable, while gold is malleable. Other metals are added to white gold to create a lighter, stronger alloy, but overall it still falls short when compared to the strength of platinum.
Finally, both metals require maintenance, but white gold requires more routine care from a jeweler. Most pieces of white gold are plated with rhodium to enhance their white color, and this plating wears away over time. Some people have torhodium her pieceevery year, but someone with a platinum piece might only need a professional polish every two years or so. Maintenance costs can be worth the initial investment in a quality metal!
Platinum vs Silver
It's easy to tell the difference between platinum and silver at first glance. 🙂Platinum carries an eerie white glow, while silver looks, well, silver! Silver has a beautiful muted grey-white hue making it perfect for white metal lovers who want a subtle shine.
Silberis one of the cheapest white metals and also has one of the highest degrees of purity. The silver standard is 92.5%, almost as high as platinum! However, silver is soft and dents and scratches much more easily.
Like white gold, silver is not hypoallergenic, and the copper in its alloy can turn your finger green if you're not careful. Silver also tarnishes, so unlike platinum, tarnish-proof bags are required for storage.
Platin vs. Palladium
Palladium is a darker gray than platinum, but it still has an equally inviting white sheen. In addition, at 95% purity, palladium is just as pure as platinum.
Palladium is priced between white gold and platinum. It's also lighter and harder than platinum, which means it's more comfortable to wear with fewer scratches.
Finally, palladium requires a little less maintenance than platinum because it doesn't scratch as easily. However, similar to platinum, it develops a patina over time and needs to be polished.
Platinum vs. Stainless Steel
If you are looking for a more casual metal for your jewelry,Stainless steel is a good choice.Although it's almost as bright as platinum, it costs a fraction!
Stainless steel can also be refined in a variety of ways. They can have polished steel, brushed or reflective finishes, or anything in between.
When it comes to white metals, stainless steel is the most durable option. Stainless steel ranks higher on the Mohs scale than the other competitors and even surpasses platinum in terms of hardness.
Advantages and disadvantages
Should you go for platinum? Let's summarize the pros and cons of platinum:
Advantages
- is platinum95 % rein, so you get a lot of precious metal for your money.
- When it comes to durability, platinum isincredibly strong.
- is platinumhypoallergenicAnddoes not start.
- Of the white metals, platinum has thelightest white color.
- platinumdoes not scratch easilyAndrequires less maintenance.
- Because of its density is platinumideal for diamond settings, since a platinum pin is much stronger than most alternatives.
Disadvantages
- Save your money because platinum ismore expensivethan other white metals.
- platinumwill patinate over time, and that can meanregular polishingfrom a jeweler if you are not careful with your jewelry.
When should you choose platinum for your jewelry?
So how can you decide if platinum is the right metal for your jewelry needs?
Given the benefits above, it seems like a worthwhile investment! But,It is important to consider your situationwhen deciding whether Platinum meets your needs. Here are some things to consider when deciding to go platinum:
Jewelers and retailers can help you choose
With many leading retailers and jewelery designers crafting their pieces from platinum, it's easy to see why they put their trust in the durable metal.
If you are seeking further advice on whether platinum is right for you, you should discuss your concerns with a jeweler or jeweler. Many retailers such asJames AllenAndBlue Nile, also offer 24/7 chat services, hotlines, virtual appointments and more to answer your jewelry questions with a trained professional.🕵🏻♂️
Engagement and Wedding Jewelry
When looking for engagement or wedding jewelry, platinum is often a recommended metal option.
Platinum engagement rings are built to last, and the metal's white luster enhances the brilliance of diamonds. Platinum wedding bands are equally sturdy, and the elegant alloy looks great on both men and women. Men's platinum wedding bands often have a beautiful brushed finish.
Platinum frames are also great for non-traditional brides, as is platinumcomplement each gem. Try a sapphire or an aquamarine as a center stone to complement your look!
Think about HOW you wear your jewelry
First and foremost, think about how you wear your jewelry on a daily basis.
If you're looking for a piece to wear only on special occasions, platinum probably isn't the best option. You can find stunning pieces in white gold at a much cheaper price.
However, if you are looking for a piece that you can wear regularly and that will last, platinum is a great option. Whether you choose to wear your piece to work, family gatherings, or just at home, platinum is a metal that will last a lifetime.
However, how rough you are with your jewelry will determine how much care it requires. If you prefer polished platinum but bang your ring on other surfaces on a daily basis, pay for the polishing service more often!
Why do I need to clean my platinum jewelry?
If platinum is so tough, why do you need to clean and polish it? developed platinum"Patina” over long periods of gestation. Patina occurs when small surface scratches on platinum bands move the metal and cause a loss of luster. The metal is becoming less shiny, but some wearers prefer the antique look of platinum patina!
If you're not a fan of patina, you'll need to take care of your platinum piece both at home and with professional services to keep your band shiny. Also, diamonds on your platinum piece require routine maintenance to ensure they are not loose, damaged, or missing.
Regular cleaning at home
Cleaning your platinum jewelry at home is easy! Simply mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water and drop your jewelry into the mixture. After 20 to 40 minutes, remove your jewelry and gently scrub all surfaces with a soft toothbrush. If you have diamonds, make sure you carefully clean any crevices in the setting where dirt and other substances can get trapped.
Once you've scrubbed away the dirt, rinse your platinum under warm, running water and dry with a lint-free cloth. Finally, to remove patina at home, buff your piece with a soft cloth or buffing cloth. When you're not wearing your jewelry, store it in a soft cloth pouch or cloth-lined jewelry box.
Professional cleaning in store
Admittedly, solely cleaning your piece at home won't keep the patina off forever. Depending on your level of wear, number of diamonds, etc., your piece may need to be professionally cleaned annually or every two years by your trusted jeweler.
Professional cleanings are usually part of your service package when you buy a platinum piece. Additionally, your jeweler can also offer polishing services, which are key to removing patina and keeping your platinum piece looking brand new. Polishing your jewelry moves all of the platinum back into place and restores its original shine.
Finally, professional cleanings are important to diamond care, and a jeweler should check your diamond and its prongs at least annually to prevent loosening. Make sure you buy your platinum piece from a trusted jeweler who offers comprehensive service plans to protect your jewelry.
Where should you buy platinum jewelry? Our recommendations
It's important to buy platinum from a reputable retailer who can offer you the services needed to preserve your new piece for the long term.
Here are some retailers we recommend for your next Platinum purchase:
James Allen
A fan among loose diamond buyers,James Allenalso offers high quality platinum rings for your next purchase. James Allen offers a lifetime guarantee on all jewelry and a free cleaning every 6 months is included in your service package. They also offer free ring resizing within a year of purchase and free shipping!🙂
Blue Nile
Another titan of online retail, Blue Nile has a beautiful oneSelectionof platinum jewelry at affordable prices. Just look at these amazing platinum earringsthis platinum bracelet! Enjoy a lifetime guarantee on all jewelry and free cleaning and inspection services on all diamond rings. For a one-of-a-kind piece, try their engraving services and special order engagement rings.
radiant earth
radiant earthis the perfect option for platinum buyers who want to stay eco-friendly. Her selection includes stunning platinum necklaces, earrings and rings. Although Brilliant Earth cannot guarantee that all of their platinum will be recycled due to low availability, they try their best to blend recycled platinum with suppliers to source their platinum sustainably. Brilliant Earth offers a lifetime guarantee on all products and donates 5% of net profits to human rights and environmental causes.
Trusted local jeweler
If you'd rather not buy from an online retailer, find a jeweler near you that you trust for quality platinum and customer service. Ask about their service plans and find a jeweler who can offer a lifetime warranty or free cleaning and annual polishing for the life of your piece. Also, make sure you check the hallmarks on their platinum pieces to ensure you are buying high quality metal and not a platinum mix.
Having a local jeweler who can visit you anytime you have a question or concern can really give buyers peace of mind. It's great to have a jewelry professional who can also provide advice and guidance for all subsequent pieces!
Choose the right metal for your needs
Platinum is an extraordinary metal that is perfect for jewelry that you want to keep forever.With its enduring strength, luminous brilliance and universal appeal, platinum dazzles in any setting.If you want to create a lasting piece, consider the additional cost of platinum.
However, if you want a unique look, consider yellow or rose gold as colorful alternatives. Or, if you want a silvery sheen without the high price tag, try white gold or palladium for a similar look. Whatever you choose, make sure your metal meets your jewelry needs.
Looking forMore information about the other metalsmentioned in this article? Consider reading more about white, rose and yellow gold on our website!
FAQs
Why platinum is the best metal for jewelry? ›
Platinum is an excellent value because of its inherent qualities: its purity, its strength, its durability and its rarity. When you purchase platinum jewelry, you are buying jewelry that is almost 100% pure.
Why is platinum good for jewelry? ›Platinum is extremely durable and strong making it ideal for jewellery that's worn on a daily basis. It's highly resistant to stress and withstands both extreme heat and extreme cold, which means platinum jewellery will retain its good looks better than any other metal.
What is so special about platinum? ›It is extremely resistant to tarnishing and corrosion (which makes it known as a “noble metal”) and is very soft and malleable, making it easy to shape. It is also ductile, making it easy to stretch into wire, and unreactive, which means it doesn't oxidize and is unaffected by common acids.
Why do people choose platinum? ›Jewelry Experts & Designers Share Why They Love Platinum
Platinum is a quiet luxury, not flashy or obvious. The weight of it makes it feel substantial, but it's preciousness can be your own little secret. Its color, the most neutral of the precious metals, makes it perfect to set off both diamonds and color gemstones.
- Meteorites and our moon contain a higher percentage of platinum than can be found on the Earth.
- The melting point of platinum is 3,215 °F (1,768.4 °C) and the boiling point is 6,917 °F (3,825 °C).
- Typically 95% pure, platinum is one of the purest precious metals.
Is platinum more valuable than gold? Platinum is generally valued higher than gold. This is because platinum is rarer than gold, has a higher density and is purer. Platinum rings require more platinum than gold rings require gold, which can increase the overall cost.
What are the pros and cons of platinum? ›Platinum is a very dense metal which means it has excellent resistance to wearing away. A wedding ring made in Platinum could be worn for decades and barely lose any thickness at all. The downside of Platinum is that it tends to lose its high polish and sharp edges fairly quickly.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of platinum? ›Platinum is a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and anniversary gifts. It is more durable than gold or silver while still maintaining the same luster of one of these precious metals. The downside - platinum prices are significantly higher than those of other metal types so it can get costly quickly!
Is platinum the best metal for a ring? ›If you're looking for a unique and beautiful ring that will last a lifetime, platinum is a perfect choice. Platinum rings are known for their elegance, strength and durability. The metal is rarer than gold and has a purity of 95%, making it strong, durable, and exceptionally gorgeous.
What are 3 important uses of platinum? ›The electronics industry uses platinum for computer hard disks and thermocouples. Platinum is also used to make optical fibres and LCDs, turbine blades, spark plugs, pacemakers and dental fillings. Platinum compounds are important chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancers.
Is wearing platinum good for health? ›
Among all these benefits, platinum has some unique hypoallergenic benefits. There are many people who suffer from various types of allergies associated with metals. Silver, gold and nickel are the common agents. But platinum is almost entirely inert when it comes to contact with the skin.
Why platinum has no resale value? ›Platinum tends to be a level pricier than the other pieces, yet in contrast to the other precious metals, platinum has a lower resale value, which makes it a one-time investment in the market,” he said. In India, platinum has not got that kind of acceptability and marketability that gold and diamond have.
Does platinum lose its shine? ›Yes, platinum loses its shine and dulls up faster than other precious metals.
What are 5 common uses of platinum? ›Platinum is used in catalytic converters, laboratory equipment, electrical contacts and electrodes, platinum resistance thermometers, dentistry equipment, and jewelry.
What are 5 uses for platinum? ›Platinum has a range of uses, including electronics, automotive industry, dentistry equipment, jewellery, and bullion. The biggest use of platinum however is as a catalyst. Catalysts are materials that speed up chemical reactions and reduce the energy needed to convert a substance.
Does platinum break easily? ›Like all rings, platinum rings can break or bend if you press on them hard enough (like if you run them over with your car). However, platinum is very malleable, and our jewelers can often reshape out-of-round, bent, or broken platinum rings.
What metal is more valuable than platinum? ›Rhodium, one of six PGMs, is a silver-white metallic element that is highly reflective and strongly resistant to corrosion. It is considered the rarest and most valuable precious metal in the world — far more so than gold or platinum.
Does platinum tarnish? ›Neither platinum nor pure gold tarnish, corrode, rust, or change colour. 18 karat yellow gold does have some other metals mixed into the alloy, and while these metals could tarnish a little over time, it is very unlikely.
Why choose platinum over white gold? ›Platinum is easier to maintain over time than white gold. Platinum is also the most hypoallergenic of all metals, because of its purity. Platinum is made of 95% pure platinum, where white gold is made out of 75% pure gold, and 25% other metals.
Is it better to buy platinum or gold? ›Some investors may want to prioritize stability and long-term investing. In that case, gold is likely the better option. The precious metal has a longstanding history of reliable demand which often spikes during economic downturns. On the other hand, platinum usually performs better during times of economic growth.
How do you clean platinum? ›
To clean your platinum jewelry, mix the dish soap and a couple drops of ammonia in warm water. Add your platinum jewelry and let it soak for a minute or two, or leave it for up to ten minutes for intricate or especially dirty pieces. Use the toothbrush to scrub your jewelry gently.
What are the strengths of platinum? ›Today we will be discussing Platinum (Pt) itself, which has a high melting point and temperature stability, is highly corrosion oxidation resistant, and it is a good oxidation catalyst.
Is platinum better than sterling silver? ›The difference in durability is really no contest between platinum and silver. Silver is a soft metal that wears down quickly and tarnishes easily. One of the biggest advantages of platinum is its high melting point, making it hard enough to not require any alloys.
Can a platinum ring rust? ›TALK TO AN EXPERT. (800) 745-7979
Pretty much all metals eventually rust over time. However, this isn't true of precious metals, including platinum, which has a characteristic silvery hue. The reason is because precious metals don't have any iron and therefore cannot rust.
These alloy metals get corroded when exposed to harsh chemicals such as chlorine. You should thus avoid wearing your engagement band into the pool or hot tub if it contains any of these alloy metals. However, if your ring is made out of pure gold, platinum, or palladium then you need not worry about chlorine.
Who uses the most platinum? ›...
Consumption of platinum worldwide in 2021, by region (in metric tons)
The main reason why your platinum jewelry is sticking to magnets is probably because of the alloys used. Your platinum jewelry may have been combined with magnetic alloys or other magnetic or corrosive metals. Platinum is very soft, around 4-5 in the Mohs scale of hardness (only slightly harder than gold).
Is it OK to shower with platinum? ›Can you wear platinum in the shower? A similar scenario to gold, you should refrain from wearing your platinum jewelry in the shower as it will reduce its shine and luster. Water itself will not harm the platinum, but it well affect the overall look of it down the road.
Does platinum jewellery have resale value? ›Platinum also has poor resale value as only a limited number of shops buy it back. Besides, compared with gold jewellery, making charges, close to Rs 500 per gram, are much higher for platinum jewellery. Buyers also need to be cautious when it comes to the purity of the metal and what it is mixed with.
What can damage platinum? ›Believe it or not, the chemicals present in everyday products like cleaning supplies, perfumes, hairsprays, etc. can be quite harsh. They can weaken the structure of your precious metal over a period of time. Also, the chlorine present in swimming pools can ruin the platinum's shine and cause discoloration.
How hard is it to sell platinum? ›
According to The Economic Times, platinum, in general, has a poor resale value. The main reason is because a relatively small number of people are willing to buy it. This doesn't mean you can't find a reputable buyer, but you'll need to do some searching as you explore your options.
Is there anything more valuable than platinum? ›Palladium is the most expensive of the four major precious metals – gold, silver and platinum being the others. It is rarer than platinum, and is used in larger quantities for catalytic converters.
Do platinum rings lose value? ›Because of its rarity, platinum is valuable and will hold its value as the years pass. We now know that platinum is a naturally white metal. Because of its pure white color that won't change over time, you never have to worry about any unwanted color reflecting into the diamond.
Does water ruin platinum? ›Platinum is unaffected by air and water, but will dissolve in hot aqua regia, in hot concentrated phosphoric and sulphuric acids, and in molten alkali. It is as resistant as gold to corrosion and tarnishing.
Does platinum turn black over time? ›Platinum does not fade, tarnish, or turn color. However, with age, it does take on a patina and show slight scratches.
How often should I polish my platinum ring? ›If you're wearing your platinum jewellery every day (maybe a wedding band or engagement ring) it will be exposed to lots of surfaces, oils and chemicals, so it's recommended that you clean regularly worn platinum jewellery once a month or so.
What is the disadvantage of platinum? ›The downside of Platinum is that it tends to lose its high polish and sharp edges fairly quickly. This is not because they are being worn away but, more accurately, they are being moulded like clay around the surface of the ring.
Is platinum better than silver for jewelry? ›The difference in durability is really no contest between platinum and silver. Silver is a soft metal that wears down quickly and tarnishes easily. One of the biggest advantages of platinum is its high melting point, making it hard enough to not require any alloys.
Why is platinum jewelry more expensive? ›Price. Platinum: Despite being nearly identical in appearance, platinum is more valuable than gold. Platinum's high price point can be attributed to its rarity and density as precious metals are often priced by their weight.
Why platinum has low resale value? ›Platinum Tends to Have a Poor Resale Value
The main reason is because a relatively small number of people are willing to buy it. This doesn't mean you can't find a reputable buyer, but you'll need to do some searching as you explore your options.
Does platinum shine more than silver? ›
Silver and platinum both have gray undertones, unlike white gold which has a warmer, yellow undertone, but platinum is much brighter and shinier and silver has a duller, gray appearance. The difference in durability is really no contest between platinum, white gold and silver.
Is it worth buying platinum jewelry? ›Platinum tends to be a level pricier than the other pieces, yet in contrast to the other precious metals, platinum has a lower resale value, which makes it a one-time investment in the market,” he said. In India, platinum has not got that kind of acceptability and marketability that gold and diamond have.
Is platinum a better buy than gold? ›Platinum. Like gold and silver, platinum trades around the clock on global commodities markets. It often tends to fetch a higher price (per troy ounce) than gold during routine periods of market and political stability simply because it's much rarer. Far less of the metal is actually pulled from the ground annually.
Why is platinum more valuable than silver? ›On the other hand, platinum is one of the most expensive precious metals available. The metal's rareness creates a higher value than other metals, and because it is durable, it will last longer. An in-between option is white gold which is more durable than standard silver but less expensive than platinum.
What is more valuable than platinum? ›Palladium is the most expensive of the four major precious metals – gold, silver and platinum being the others. It is rarer than platinum, and is used in larger quantities for catalytic converters.