Musical artists have albums that go platinum. Consumers with good credit have access to the most desirable charge accounts in the form of platinum credit cards. Popular culture recognizes the value of this precious metal, but it is in jewelry where platinum shines the most.
Historically, consumers have chosen gold as the most desirable metal. However, jewelry collectors that want something brighter and capable of bringing out a better shine in their gems will appreciate platinum. Those that love its look and want to start a collection should spend a few minutes learning more about the metal they hope to collect.
Leading White Metal
Platinum has little real competition in the form of comparable white metals. Platinum does not fade back to yellow as white gold might because it is naturally white. Platinum has the glimmering look and white sheen that made silver popular but does not tarnish like silver.
Outweighs Gold Density
The value of platinum per ounce is less than gold. People may then wonder why platinum jewelry appears to cost more than gold jewelry. Platinum sellers do not overprice their goods. The reason for the price discrepancy is the purity percentage of the platinum and its density.
All metals made into jewelry are mixed with other metals to make them more durable for wear. Platinum jewelry, because of its durability, has less nickel and other lighter-weight metals added than what goes into gold jewelry. A platinum ring will weigh much more than the same ring made with gold.
Safer for Allergies
Many people have allergies to cheaper metals like copper or nickel, so the addition of these in gold or silver causes some people to experience reactions. Platinum is hypoallergenic and safe for most wearers because it is so durable that it needs much less of these other metals.
Some reactions can occur when wearing platinum, but it is rare. Some platinum jewelry contains a small amount of nickel, and it may be enough to affect someone very sensitive to nickel. It is also possible for some individuals to have a platinum allergy.
Available as Vintage
Platinum has recently become trendy so it may seem like a new addition to the jewelry world, but it is not. Many ancient cultures knew of and used the precious metal for their jewelry. Archaeologists have even uncovered pieces containing platinum at ancient Egyptian sites. Scholars also note that many Native Americans historically used platinum for their jewelry making.
People that appreciate vintage and antique jewelry will be happy to hear the metal has been in use by jewelers for regular commercial sales since the 19th century. It is possible to find an array of vintage designs in the glimmering metal. Even the world-famous Hope Diamond has a platinum setting.
Easy to Identify
New shoppers may worry about mistaking silver or white gold for platinum, but there are ways to tell the difference. Platinum typically feels heavy for its size, and silver is often exceptionally light. Aged platinum keeps its white color, so avoid jewelry that has yellowed or tarnished because these items are likely white gold or silver.
Look for markings of plat, platinum, or pt stamped into jewelry. A number will often follow the stamped abbreviation. The number is the percentage of pure platinum in the piece.
Shoppers that want to begin a platinum collection can save money by choosing secondhand jewelry. Previously owned metals have the same value as new metals, and the durability of platinum makes it a great choice for secondhand shoppers. At Gardena Jewelry & Loan Company., we offer an ever-changing inventory of platinum jewelry. Stop by to view our collection.