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.
