Gold Gem Jewelery Design

Platinum metal resists tarnish and, because of its purity, is one of the strongest, most durable metals in the world.

What you should know about Platinum

Platinum is counted in 1000 parts. Most pieces are 95% pure, or 950 parts per thousand. For guaranteed quality, look for the marks 950 Plat, 950Pt, Pt950, Plat, 900Pt, Pt900, or 900Plat. Platinum jewelry is hypoallergenic which makes it safe for even the most sensitive skin.
 
Today, platinum jewelry is commonly alloyed with copper, titanium, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium. Even though platinum jewelry and white gold are similar in appearance, there are a few, but important differences, including purity, durability, rarity and luminescence. Platinum is more pure than white gold. It weighs 60% more than 14k gold. Since platinum is 1000 parts, you get more of this precious metal compared to the same amount of gold.
 
 The durability of platinum is legendary. When it is scratched, it virtually loses no metal, instead it is displaced on the surface. Because of its great density there is a strong barrier against scratches. The rarity of platinum makes it an elite piece of jewelry. To get a single ounce it takes ten tons of ore and five months.
 
The annual worldwide production is approximately 160 tons, compare to gold at 1500 tons of gold. This is why platinum is ideal for engagement rings, which is the single most important piece of jewelry a man will ever buy. Since it is more pure than white gold, it has more luminescence. White gold sometimes has a white tint to it, but platinum has a complete shine and mirror sheen.
 
When shopping for platinum jewelry, it's important to know the meaning of different platinum markings found etched either on the inside or backside of the piece. 100 - 99%= Platinum, Plat, Pt999= 999 parts per thousand, 1 part other metal 95%= Platinum, Pt, 950Pt, Pt950, 950Plat= 950 parts per thousand and 50 parts other metal 90%= Platinum, Pt900, 900Pt, 900Plat= 900 parts per thousand and 100 parts other metal When buying platinum jewelry, do some research about the different types.
Platinum is great for everyday pieces because of its strength and durability. Compare prices of different stores, online and local retail shops, so you can get more for your money. For quality assurance, look for pieces with markings of 950 Plat, 950Pt, Pt950, Plat, 900Pt, Pt900, or 900Plat. Platinum engagement rings are more readily available compared to other forms of jewelry.
 
Since platinum jewelry is so durable, it can be worn everyday, but you should still take good care of it and take it off when doing rough work or working with harsh chemicals. To clean your platinum rings or chains, soak them in a mild solution of soap and warm water, then gently scrub them with a soft bristle brush. Store platinum in a fabric-lined box away from other pieces, so it does not get scratched