Among the many choices of jewelry metal, platinum has become quite popular today be it for a dainty pair of earrings or for a special engagement ring. This is despite the fact that it is costlier than gold. Here's a look at the different features that make it the best and most expensive metal for jewelry.

Color

The natural white sheen, actually silver-like color, of platinum is an attraction to many; particularly to those who do not like the yellow hue of gold. Many might offer white gold as a competition to platinum, but the former pales in comparison to the latter and we will tell you why.

White gold gets its white color because of the rhodium plating used. As the rhodium plating fades off, the metal automatically takes on a yellowish tinge. It must be re-plated and re-polished to maintain its white hue. Platinum which is naturally white does not fade even several years down the line.

Density

Platinum is a denser metal and therefore a larger quantity is required to make a ring. It is for this reason that jewelry made of this metal is heavier than gold and silver. It also remains stable at very high temperatures.

Durability and Strength

Platinum is most valued for its strength and durability. If you put down two rings, one gold and the other platinum, bought at the same time and subjected to the same amount of wear and tear, you will notice that the gold ring tends to show more signs of wear than the platinum one. Platinum rings are also resistant to corrosion.

Given its durability, platinum can last for several years. As such, it can also be handed down as heirloom jewelry from one generation to the other.

Malleability

Platinum is quite hard to touch, yet it is quite flexible. Its properties of malleability and ductility allow it to be shaped into the most delicate and fragile designs. It can also be sized to fit changing dimensions. This is not possible in the case of titanium rings which call for a complete new purchase should the wearer become fat or thin.

Purity

Platinum jewelry is mostly made of pure platinum jewelry. This is unlike gold which is mixed other elements. The amount of actual gold used in a particular unit of jewelry is indicated as karats.

Patina

The patina is the natural satin sheen that develops over the platinum metal. This is one of the most desirable features of this metal. This is because when the platinum gets scratched, it develops a patina finish smoothing out the scratches in a way to give it a worn look.

Hypoallergenic

Platinum is a hypoallergenic metal that is to say it does not react with the skin even with prolonged used, especially use in water. This is because the platinum metal used to make jewelry is 99% pure; it is the nickel alloy used in gold that makes many allergic to it.

Availability

Platinum is also a rare metal. This accounts for its high cost and also explains why it was the choice of only the upper classes till late. To add, it also appreciates in value which makes it a great investment in the long run.

If you considering buying a platinum engagement rings or wedding bands, drop in at Aurus. They have rings in all metals and designs helping you make a simple metal band a true symbol of enduring and everlasting love.