Compare these - silver, gold, and platinum. Which amongst them do you think has the heftiest price tag? It's platinum, alright. But do you know why?
The Value of Platinum Over Gold
As early as the 7th century B.C., the Egyptians had already been using platinum to adorn the caskets of their Royalty. However, gold was the more popular metal for jewelry even during ancient times because Platinum was so hard to find. Platinum is found only in trace quantities on Earth. It is rarer than gold and for this reason alone, platinum would cost more than gold. Also, platinum is known in the jewelry industry to be a lot stronger and purer compared to gold. When it comes to purity, most platinum used in jewelry around the world is 85% except in the USA and the UK, which make use of 95% pure platinum.
Platinum is denser thus heavier than gold by about 68%. This makes platinum a lot more durable. Also, it is more resistant to tarnishing compared to gold. Platinum's strength gives a very secure setting for precious stones and diamonds. In fact, other precious metals such as ruthenium, cobalt, iridium, palladium, and copper are alloyed with it to make these metals stronger and durable. Gold may be more malleable than platinum, but it needs to be alloyed with other metals as well to improve on its strength and for it to stay in shape. The downside of the strength of platinum is that it requires a very high temperature to mold it: an astounding 1769°C and it needs more effort and skill on the jeweler's part, unlike gold.
Another benefit of platinum, when used in jewelry-making, is its purity makes it perfect for people with sensitive skin.
The History of Platinum Jewelry
Wedding bands makers are now more leaning toward the use of platinum as the main material. Tiffany and Cartier introduced platinum in the jewelry world during the 18th century. After World War II, platinum became a controlled material and its use had declined.
During the 1960's, the demand for platinum resurged in Japan. It eventually became a symbol of purity and virtue because of its white luster. The other countries followed suit in terms of the demand for this precious metal.
Knowing Fake Platinum From Real Platinum
As platinum weighs heavier than gold, density is the main aspect of the metal that will tip off whether it is authentic platinum or not. Using a special instrument in detecting fake coins can also be of great use in this endeavor. The jewelry's label will also give you a clue. If one tells you that a piece contains 95% platinum, the label should have platinum or 950 platinum/plat.
Caring for Platinum Jewelries
No matter how strong platinum is known for, it will still require proper care for it to last. To clean platinum pieces, use a mild soap solution and warm water. Don't wear it while doing household chores. Scrub it gently using a soft toothbrush to maintain the luster. Have it inspected, polished and cleaned by a qualified jeweler at least twice a year or even more often if scratches appear.
With all that indispensable information put to practical use, your platinum jewelry has just gained more value for you.
