Valued for its purity, rarity and strength, platinum is considered the most precious of all jewelry metals. Its beautiful color and elegant appearance make it an ideal choice for brides and all jewelry lovers.
Compared to gold, platinum is five times as rare and much more pure when used in jewelry. For instance, gold must contain at least 41% pure gold or it will no longer be considered gold. To be considered "platinum," however, the metal must contain at least 90% pure platinum. Recently, many jewelers have begun to offer a more affordable alternative, 585 Platinum, containing 58.5% platinum and 41.5% copper and cobalt.
Although they appear similar, platinum should never be mistaken for white gold. The two metals differ not only in strength, but also in color. White gold is originally produced from yellow gold, while platinum is already white. Therefore, the color of platinum is actually whiter than white gold.
Unlike other metals, platinum does not expand or distort when exposed to heat, and it never tarnishes. Instead, it ages beautifully by developing a lustrous patina. This hypoallergenic metal is also heavier than most metals and commonly used as a secure diamond setting.
