Platinum

Platinum is considered one of the noble metals. The first references in print for such a hard-to-melt metal are from 1557, shortly after the Spanish conquest of South America. Since then, the other five metals of the Platinum Group have been identified. These are Rhodium, Ruthenium, Palladium, Iridium, and Osmium. The jewelry industry makes use of each of these metals in some form. In particular, Rhodium is used as a bright, hard and tarnish-free electroplate, while Ruthenium, Iridium and Palladium are used as alloying elements with one another. Osmium, on the other hand, is the least abundant of these metals.

When nothing short of the best is required, platinum is the metal of choice. Platinum is significantly more scarce than gold; however, it is stronger and more durable.

When shopping for jewelry, platinum is preferred due to the emotional suggestions involved with the purchase of a platinum engagement ring or a platinum wedding band. For such engagement and wedding jewelry, platinum is the perfect choice. Because of its greater resistance to wear and tear, platinum is the ultimate choice when security and durability are the most important aspects under consideration. Platinum is absolutely the best choice when a large diamond or colored gemstone is attached to the jewelry piece. With such a jewelry piece, the peacefulness that comes from a platinum setting certainly justifies the small additional cost.

When it comes to considering a jewelry purchase, platinum has several qualities that make it an attractive choice. The most appealing feature of platinum is its durability. Platinum is more resistant to wear and tear than gold or silver. Platinum is a dense and strong metal, and thus it will not chip or splinter easily. Most platinum jewelry is 95% pure platinum and 5% alloy (usually ruthenium).