So you're shopping for an engagement ring or maybe you're looking to upgrade the look of your existing ring. You hear many people say platinum is a stronger and tougher metal than gold. The truth is, yes it is. However this doesn't mean it is scratch proof, in fact it scratches more easily. Its heavy density will make the piece heavier, and since cost is by weight it will also be costlier than gold. Platinum is more expensive as it is nearly used in its purest form with only 5-10% of alloys, something to keep in mind. It is also the metal of choice for very delicately constructed pieces, since it is a harder metal, it will ensure that the stones will be held securely. When the design of a ring doesn't have a fragile construction, you might as well go for white gold.
Another important factor why platinum could be the right choice for you is if you have allergy to gold. Well no one can really be allergic to this eternal metal which is gold, it is the whitening agent (nickel) in the alloys mixed with the gold that can cause sensitivity to some people. The small amount of allows added to platinum will be another form of platinum group metal.
One great reason to choose platinum over white gold is that its native color is white, unlike the gold which receives its whiteness from the added alloys and with time will need re-polishing and re-dipping to regain the bright white finish. Platinum also isn't as white as the gold, somewhat grey white, this flatters the diamonds making them that much brighter, even color gemstones shine. The color grey will always enhance the color it accompanies, even in clothing; wear grey pants with a fushia top and that top's color will be brighter.
When ordering a platinum piece, keep in mind that platinum melts at higher temperatures and requires different tools and special skills and most often will take longer to create.
Overall, platinum is a metal that demands better skilled smiths and must be done right from the get go, unlike gold, it is very difficult to correct platinum if there are issues in the design. Therefore, platinum jewelry is made sure to be made perfectly in the first place and tends to be more "exclusive".
Hope this helps in your decision, I personally like my gold, the eternal metal, but there's something to be said about platinum isn't there?
