CollectionPlatinum

​​A platinum ring refers to the band/setting of a ring being made of platinum – one of Earth’s most rare jewellery metals. Most platinum rings are made of at least 90-95% platinum – making them the most dense and durable of all wedding ring jewellery metals.

Platinum rings are the most durable of all the jewellery metals due to their strength and density. Unlike gold, they don’t tarnish, and don’t need to be rhodium plated to ensure their shine.

Most rings made from a precious metal, like platinum, yellow gold, white gold or rose gold, can be resized. As with any metal, it is best not to try and size down more than two sizes, as the ring can become unstable.

Platinum consists of 95% pure platinum mixed with an alloy of 5% iridium to offer strength. Because platinum is a coloured a luxurious deep silver colour it does not require rhodium plating. While it is one of the hardest of jewellery making metals, platinum is a malleable metal that can be easily shaped into intricate designs. Platinum rings are made by pouring liquid platinum into a casting. Once the metal has set, a jewellery atelier files and polishes the setting and lastly hand sets the stone/s.

A number of factors come into play when deciding on white gold or platinum for an engagement ring. Firstly, cost – white gold is more affordable than platinum in the short term. However, platinum is naturally silver in colour and doesn’t need to be replated like white gold does (which costs money each time). Secondly, durability – platinum is more durable than white gold. It will never tarnish and is much stronger than white gold, due to its density. Platinum will do a great job at holding gemstones in place for a long period. Thirdly, the setting you’d like - as platinum is naturally harder, it isn’t as malleable as gold. If you would like an intricate setting with fine metalwork, white gold is probably the way to go.

Finally – if you have sensitive skin, know that platinum is hypoallergenic. That means anyone can wear it, even if you have skin allergies (white gold often has nickel in it, causing people’s skin to react to the jewellery).

Due to the density of platinum, more metal is required to make the same size piece as it would take to produce a white gold ring, and metal is measured in weight – so the heavier it is, the more expensive. There is also less platinum mined than gold, which makes platinum rarer, and therefore more expensive.