Sleek and elegant, platinum's natural white luster beautifully enhances a diamond's radiance. Thirty times rarer than gold and heavier, platinum is also the strongest of precious metals used in jewelry. Prongs set in platinum are more durable than those set in gold.
Platinum is more valuable than gold. Almost 160 tons of platinum are produced annually in comparison to approximately 1,500 tons of gold. In fact, 10 tons of ore must be mined to produce just one ounce of platinum.
Platinum's high melting point made it a difficult metal to use. Even with improved casting techniques, platinum remains expensive.
Yet its popularity continues to grow as consumers recognize its unique ability to bring out a diamond's brilliance.
Unlike gold, platinum is often 90 to 95 percent pure. It is frequently alloyed with gold, nickel, iridium, palladium, rhodium, or ruthenium. Platinum jewelry that meets the established standards is marked 900Pt, 950 Plat or Plat. In the United States, in order to be marked "Platinum" or "Plat," jewelry must contain at least 50 percent platinum.
Always look for the marking to ensure that the material is platinum and not white gold or another metal.
Platinum resists tarnishing. It is also hypoallergenic which makes it perfect for sensitive skin.
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