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The Precious Metal Platinum
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Platinum is the most valued precious metal; its value exceeds even that of Gold. It has a beautiful silver-white color, and, unlike Silver, does not tarnish. It is unaffected by common household chemicals and will not get damaged or discolored by chlorine, bleach, or detergents. It is tougher than all precious jewelry metals, though due to its flexible tenacity it still must be alloyed with other metals to prevent it from bending. Natural Platinum usually contains small amounts of the rare element iridium. In jewelry, iridium is alloyed with the Platinum to increase its toughness. Platinum jewelry is usually 90 to 95 percent pure. |
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Platinum is an extremely rare metal. This, combined with the fact that it is very resistant and doesn't tarnish, are responsible for Platinum's exorbitant value. Platinum is not an ancient metal; it wasn't until relatively modern times that Platinum was regarded as such a valuable commodity. In fact, before the 1700's, the identity of Platinum was uncertain, and Platinum was often regarded as a lesser form of Silver. The extremely high melting point of Platinum also made it difficult to melt down and fashion into jewelry. This has all changed today, with the popularity and value of Platinum soaring and its usage in jewelry very popular and exclusive.
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Platinum is the rarest and most expensive of the precious metals. High-end rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings are fashioned from Platinum. Platinum jewelry is rare and exotic, and is the fastest growing jewelry material in the world. Like White Gold, its color best complements colorless and blue gems, though Platinum settings can go with all different gemstone colors.
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Platinum is always alloyed with small amounts of other metals, especially iridium, to increase durability. This is the industry standard, and all Platinum jewelry is about 90 to 95 percent pure.
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South Africa is the largest producer of Platinum, followed by Russia, Colombia, Canada (Ontario), and the U.S. (Montana, Alaska, and Oregon).
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The few metals that achieve the bright metallic-white color and luster of Platinum are softer, lighter in weight, and tarnish. However, White Gold can be mistaken for Platinum, but professional jewelers are able to make a distinction.
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Have a question about Platinum? Visit our Q&A Community and ask the experts!
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