What is Platinum?
Platinum is a rare, precious metal known for its stunning silvery-white appearance and remarkable durability. Discovered in the 18th century, platinum is prized for its resistance to tarnish and corrosion, making it an excellent choice for fine jewellery. Its name is derived from the Spanish term “platina,” meaning “little silver,” a nod to its lustrous sheen. Platinum’s rarity and unique properties have made it a symbol of prestige and luxury.
Platinum Used in Jewellery
Pure platinum is incredibly malleable, meaning it can be shaped and formed into intricate designs without losing its strength. However, for jewellery, platinum is often alloyed with other metals to enhance its durability and workability.
95% Platinum (950 Platinum)
This is the highest standard for platinum jewellery. It consists of 95% pure platinum mixed with 5% other metals such as ruthenium, iridium, or palladium. This blend offers exceptional durability while maintaining the metal’s natural beauty.
90% Platinum (900 Platinum)
Comprising 90% pure platinum and 10% other metals, this alloy is slightly harder and more resistant to scratching, making it ideal for pieces that require additional strength, such as rings and bracelets.
Platinum Buyer’s Guide
When purchasing platinum jewellery, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:
Purity Markings
Look for stamps such as “950 Plat” or “Plat” on the jewellery, indicating the purity of the platinum. These markings confirm that you’re buying high-quality platinum.
Weight and Density
Platinum is denser than gold, which gives it a substantial, luxurious feel. A platinum ring will feel heavier than a similar gold ring, which can be a sign of its authenticity and quality.
Durability and Care
Platinum is highly durable and resists tarnish, but it can still scratch. The good news is that the metal is not lost when scratched; it simply displaces, meaning your platinum jewellery can be polished and restored to its original beauty.
Hypoallergenic Properties
Platinum is naturally hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or metal allergies. You can wear platinum jewellery with confidence, knowing it won’t cause irritation.
Craftsmanship
The skill of the jeweller plays a significant role in the quality of platinum jewellery. At Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, we take pride in our expert craftsmanship, ensuring each piece is meticulously crafted to the highest standards.
Investment Value
Platinum’s rarity and enduring appeal make it a valuable investment. Its price can fluctuate based on market conditions, but its intrinsic value remains high due to its scarcity and demand.
Platinum is a timeless choice for those seeking elegance, durability, and a touch of luxury in their jewellery. Whether you’re looking for a stunning engagement ring, a sophisticated bracelet, or a unique pendant, platinum offers unparalleled beauty and resilience. Explore our exquisite collection of platinum jewellery at Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, where quality and craftsmanship shine.
When choosing between platinum and other metal options for your jewellery, it’s essential to consider differences in appearance, weight, durability, price, and maintenance.
Platinum vs. Palladium
Platinum, known for its natural silvery-white colour, maintains its brilliance and develops a unique patina over time, offering a substantial, luxurious feel due to its higher density. It is incredibly durable, resistant to wear and tear, and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent long-term investment despite its higher price. Palladium, also naturally white, shares a similar look to platinum but is lighter and less dense, providing a comfortable wear. It is highly durable and resists tarnish, though it is softer than platinum and more prone to scratches. Palladium is more affordable than platinum, offering a cost-effective alternative with a similar aesthetic. Both metals are hypoallergenic and require minimal upkeep, but platinum’s weight and durability make it a preferred choice for those seeking a more luxurious feel. At Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, we help you choose the perfect metal to match your preferences and lifestyle needs.
Platinum vs. White Gold
Platinum, naturally silvery-white, retains its colour and develops a unique patina over time, offering a substantial, luxurious feel due to its higher density. It is highly durable, resistant to wear and tear, and requires minimal maintenance, as it doesn’t need replating. While more expensive initially, platinum’s longevity and low upkeep can offer better long-term value. White gold, on the other hand, is an alloy of yellow gold coated with rhodium to achieve its bright, white appearance. It is lighter than platinum and more affordable, but it requires periodic rhodium replating to maintain its shine and is more prone to scratches and dents. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep white gold jewellery looking its best. At Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, we help you choose the perfect metal that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
Platinum vs. Silver
Platinum boasts a natural silvery-white colour that retains its brilliance without tarnishing, giving it a bright and luxurious luster. It is dense and heavy, providing a substantial feel that signifies high quality. Platinum is exceptionally durable, resistant to scratches, and requires minimal maintenance, making it a valuable long-term investment despite its higher cost. Silver, while also naturally white, tends to tarnish over time and requires regular polishing to maintain its shine. It is lighter and less dense than platinum, offering a more delicate feel. Silver is more prone to scratches and dents, and although it is much more affordable, the frequent maintenance needed to keep it looking its best can add to its overall cost. At Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, we guide you in selecting the ideal metal that fits your style and practical needs.