Platinum
A rare, dense, naturally white precious metal, usually 95 percent pure, prized for durability in fine jewellery.
Platinum is a naturally white precious metal, rarer and denser than gold, and it is a premium choice for fine and bridal jewellery. Most platinum jewellery is 95 percent pure and hallmarked Pt950, far higher purity than typical gold alloys yet still hard wearing. It holds stones securely, resists tarnish, and keeps its white colour without any plating, which is why it is a favourite for engagement rings meant to last a lifetime.
What makes platinum different
Platinum is dense and tough, so a platinum setting grips diamonds firmly and resists the everyday knocks that loosen stones. Unlike white gold, it is naturally white all the way through, so it never needs rhodium plating to stay bright, and it does not tarnish. Its high density also gives platinum jewellery a reassuring heft.
It is usually used at 950 purity, meaning 95 percent platinum, and stamped Pt950. That is a much higher purity than 18K or 14K gold, yet the metal remains hard enough for daily wear, which is unusual for such a pure precious metal.
- Naturally white, needs no plating to stay bright.
- Usually 95 percent pure, hallmarked Pt950.
- Dense and durable, holds stones securely.
- Resists tarnish and keeps its colour for life.
Why it commands a premium
Platinum is rarer than gold and, at 95 percent purity, a platinum piece contains more precious metal by proportion than an 18K gold one. Combined with its density, which means more metal by weight for the same design, this makes platinum jewellery a premium purchase, particularly for engagement rings and other high value bridal pieces.
Over time platinum develops a soft matte patina from tiny surface scratches, which many wearers value as a lived in look, while a polish restores the shine. That low maintenance whiteness, with no replating, is a genuine advantage over white gold for buyers who want to fit and forget.
- Platinum is a rare, dense, naturally white precious metal.
- Jewellery platinum is usually 95 percent pure, marked Pt950.
- It needs no plating and does not tarnish.
- Its durability and rarity make it a premium bridal choice.
Platinum, in short.
What does Pt950 mean?
Pt950 is the hallmark for platinum that is 95 percent pure, the most common purity for platinum jewellery. The remaining 5 percent is other platinum group or alloy metals.
Is platinum better than white gold?
For durability and low maintenance, platinum has advantages: it is naturally white and never needs replating. White gold is lighter and cheaper but needs periodic rhodium plating. The best choice depends on budget and preference.
Why is platinum jewellery more expensive?
Platinum is rarer than gold, used at higher purity of 95 percent, and denser, so a piece uses more precious metal by weight. Together these push its price above comparable gold jewellery.
Related terms
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