Platinum: Fact OR Fiction

 

In collaboration with Platinum Jewelry
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Platinum is a true white metal

TRUE!

Platinum is known for its natural white color—a truly white metal, unlike white gold. Gold only comes in one color – gold.  White gold is actually yellow gold that was mixed with other metals and then plated with rhodium to appear more white, and its white mask will unveil a yellow tinge over time. Platinum, on the other hand, will maintain its naturally white color. Platinum’s true white color helps not only diamonds but color gemstones pop in their settings.

Platinum is more expensive than gold

FALSE!

Historically, platinum jewelry has usually been more expensive than gold because of its rarity (it’s 30 times rarer than gold).  Right now, the price of platinum is actually lower than gold in its raw metal form. However, because platinum jewelry has much more pure platinum in it (typically 95% platinum vs. 58.5% gold in 14 kt. gold jewelry) it will still cost a bit more than a similar gold ring.

Keep in mind that Platinum jewelry’s value is higher than gold over time. Platinum loses very little metal as a result of wear, unlike gold where microscopic bits wear away every time it is scratched.  Every time platinum scratches the metal is merely displaced while gold will wear away little by little.  In addition, a “white gold” ring will have to be re-plated with rhodium frequently to retain a white look (remember, “white gold” is yellow gold mixed with other metals and coated with rhodium to make it appear white).  The maintenance costs over time will usually exceed the small cost difference at the time of purchase.

Platinum is too soft

FALSE!

Platinum is one tough metal. In fact, it’s much stronger and denser than gold. With a high concentration of platinum in its alloys—the term used to indicate mixtures of precious metals used in manufacturing—platinum is known for its ability to withstand daily wear without thinning. That’s why it’s the industry standard for a diamond’s setting. A Platinum crown (the prongs that sit on the top of the setting surrounding the center diamond) ensures that a diamond will be held securely.

Platinum is the preferred metal of antique jewelry collectors

TRUE!

Platinum’s strength and longevity also makes it possible for jewelry to be passed down from generation to generation. Platinum is a popular choice for resetting heirloom jewelry in order to extend the life of a gemstone or turn an antique piece into something new entirely.

Platinum doesn’t age well

FALSE!

If you look closely at a piece of well-loved platinum jewelry, you will notice a satiny finish on the surface that developed over time. This change in texture is known as “patina.” Jewelry lovers and designers celebrate platinum’s patina because it underscores the metal’s authenticity. It’s also a sign that the ring has strengthened from wear- platinum actually grows stronger every time it’s scratched. All metals scratch, but when platinum is scratched metal moves aside. When gold is scratched, tiny bits flake away.

Celebrity engagement rings are almost always set in platinum

TRUE!

It is no secret that celebrities typically get engaged with very large, beautiful diamonds and/or gemstones. In order to make sure these diamonds and gemstones are secure, the jewelers use and recommend platinum. In addition to security, celebrity-serving jewelers also choose platinum because its natural white hue enhances the brilliance of the diamond and gemstones rather than casting color into the stones like gold might.

Platinum Rings can’t be resized

FALSE!

First, it is important that all jewelry wearers determine their ring sizes before ordering any piece of jewelry. Rings can generally be resized up or down 1-2 sizes at the most.   That remains true for platinum rings as well. The design of the ring might also restrict resizing (especially when other diamonds are present in the design), and that will have to be determined by speaking with a trusted jeweler.

Platinum is hypoallergenic

TRUE!

Platinum is pure and hypoallergenic, the perfect choice for those with sensitive skin.

Uncover more platinum facts here.

Platinum Engagement Rings Care and Cleaning Tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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