Platinum is revered for its silvery-white colour, making it a popular choice for an engagement ring. Compared to other ring metals, platinum never fades or tarnishes, thus retaining its incredible sheen and sparkle. Diamond Quarter’s informative guide takes you over platinum diamond engagement rings and why it's the best choice for you.
Why are Platinum Engagement Bands Popular?
Platinum is renowned for its rarity and durability, Platinum is ten times rarer than gold and about two times harder, making it top of the pile in terms of precious metals in the jewellery world. Platinum’s natural white metal colour helps showcase the diamond’s whiteness and brilliance and does not detract from it compared with bright coloured metals such as yellow or rose gold which can reflect their colour through the diamond making it appear less white and clear. Therefore, a platinum band is an excellent choice for a luxurious, modern engagement ring which ticks all the boxes and holds a great value, meaning it can be passed down generations as a family heirloom.
What is the Difference Between White Gold and Platinum?
White gold and platinum share the same appearance and finish when you first purchase your engagement ring it is hard to tell them apart. However there is a big difference between these metals and how they will look over time. A platinum engagement ring is typically made from 95% platinum keeping it a strong dense metal with only 5% left being a mix of other metals such as palladium, rhodium, iridium, ruthenium and other alloys. Whereas white gold is made from 75% pure gold which is naturally softer than platinum and 25% mix of other white metals such as palladium, platinum and rhodium. White gold alloy was first created to mimic the colour of platinum, and once coated in rhodium it has this pristine white shine making it appear very similar to platinum, however over time with wear and tear this will deteriorate and wear off revealing the natural colour of white gold which is a light champagne yellowish colour. White gold will always need recoating in rhodium to maintain this pristine white shine and depending on the wearer this can be every year to three years to maintain. Whereas Platinum stays this natural white colour with no need for this maintenance, just a light polish now and then to remove scratches from daily wear.
The Advantages of Choosing a Platinum Engagement Ring
There are many advantages to a platinum engagement ring, including:
- A platinum ring prevents your diamond from appearing yellowish
- Platinum is more rare and usually more valuable than gold
- A platinum band requires less maintenance which can be costly over time.
- A platinum engagement ring is more durable and hard wearing for active lifestyles.
What Setting Works Well with a Platinum Ring?
The setting you select must reflect your style and taste. A platinum ring with a solitaire diamond creates a classic and captivating look. However if you want a centre stone with decorative side stones or shoulder set you can rest assured platinum works well with these designs too and you can have confidence that your platinum diamond engagement ring won’t ever go out of style. Alternatively, if you want something different to a solitaire or diamond shoulder set you can also consider halo, vintage and three-stone settings that also work well as a platinum engagement ring.
Is Platinum a Hypoallergenic Metal?
Platinum is a hypoallergenic metal, thus making it the best choice for sensitive skin. The platinum’s purity means it is least likely to cause irritation compared with other metals such as gold which can have trace elements of nickel and other materials which allergy suffers can react to making it the safest choice if you or your partner have sensitive skin, or find that you react to certain precious metals Platinum will be the most recommendable precious metal jewellers will advise.
Pop the question in style with a durable and long-lasting platinum engagement ring from Diamond Quarter. Did you buy your engagement ring from us and now you are planning to upgrade your engagement ring to a platinum one? We can help you with the process, feel free to book an appointment at our Golden Square showroom in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Our diamond experts are here to assist you with your platinum engagement ring purchase or upgrade.