It's time for another in our series of gem mythbusters. Today's myth: Platinum is stronger than gold and the best metal for jewelry.
This myth is not as cut and dry as the previous myths we've addressed. In fact, we can't really bust this one - only give you the pros and cons of both platinum and gold.
Platinum
- Platinum is roughly 60% more dense than gold. This density assures you that your most precious diamonds and gems will be protected and secured. Although gold can be considered stronger in the sense of it being harder to bend, the density of platinum makes it ideal for wearing everyday. Like all jewelry metals, platinum will scratch, however the scratch or nick on a platinum piece of jewelry is simply a displacement of the metal and none of its original volume is lost.
- Platinum's luster complements the sparkle of diamonds and gems. Its finish can range from a bright polish to a soft matte texture. Platinum can scratch and naturally develops a soft visible "patina" over time. Many wearers like the "patina" but the shine can be restored with polishing. Platinum wears away much more slowly with time than other jewelry metals.
- Jewelry made with platinum will have markings of Platinum, Pt, or Plat, meaning that it contains at least 95% pure platinum. If marked "iridplat," it contains 90% platinum and 10% iridium, another platinum group metal. Platinum is a very pure metal and its purity makes it hypoallergenic and thus the perfect choice for those with sensitive skin.
- Platinum's density makes the same design in Platinum heavier than gold. Some find platinum's heaviness doesn't suit certain styles, such as large earrings.
Gold
- Gold is alloyed with other metals and the term karat is used to indicate the amount of gold present. The higher the karat the higher the gold content but the less durable the metal. Because of this, 18k and 14k are most often used for jewelry; 18k gold is 75% pure and 14k is 58.5% pure.
- All gold is yellow. White gold gets its color by mixing yellow gold with alloys like nickel, zinc, and palladium. White gold is usually covered with rhodium plating to create a bright, pure white finish. Rhodium-plated white gold can "yellow" over time and may need to be occasionally replated with rhodium. Rose gold is alloyed with copper to produce its pink hue.
- When gold is alloyed with nickel, it can be allergenic to a small percentage of wearers who have skin allergies. In response, many refiners and manufacturers are now offering white gold that doesn't contain nickel.
- Gold is a more affordable metal than platinum, yet it is still very durable and an excellent metal for jewelry.
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