Metal comparison

Platinum and white gold are two very different metals. The biggest differences between platinum and white gold are that platinum is a naturally white metal, and is more dense and durable. The difference in cost is primarily due to platinum's rarity and higher level of purity in platinum jewelry. When comparing costs, keep in mind the maintenance required for white gold over a lifetime, such as rhodium plating to keep it white and reshanking and retipping the prongs. Platinum may be a higher investment initially, but its enduring nature makes it the best value in the long run.

Metal

Platinum

White Gold
Color Naturally white with cool undertone White with a yellow undertone
Metal Purity 90-95% 14k - 58.5%
18k - 75%
Finish Resistant to wear, shows scratches, satin finish as worn Shows scratches, develops sheen as worn
Working Properties Dense, malleable, strong safest setting for diamonds, retains embellishments (i.e engraving) More brittle than platinum, wears over time, less secure for diamonds and precious stones
Cost Benefits Higher initial investment.
Lower maintenance costs.		 Lower initial investment.
Higher maintenance costs.
Care and Maintenance Weekly - Clean at home with jewelry cleaning solution.

Yearly - Bring to your jeweler for polishing.		 Weekly - Clean at home with jewelry cleaning solution.

Yearly - Bring to your jeweler for polishing.

As needed - Requires re-plating, possbile re-shanking or prong re-tipping.
Plating Required No Yes
Hypo-Allergenic Yes Yes

PLATINUM TECHNICAL

Platinum Alloys

    • Pt950/Ruthenium (Ru) is the best choice for multipurpose use. It is ideal for machining and fabrication. Casting will deliver good results.

    • Pt950/Cobalt (Co) has a very fine grain and is ideal for casting. It is slightly Ferro-magnetic and oxidizes at about 1000˚C. The oxidation can be easily removed.

    • 90/10 Platinum/Iridium (Pt/Ir) is a comprehensive platinum alloy. It can be used for all applications, but is best suited for fabrication.

    • 95/5 Platinum/Iridium (Pt/Ir) is a fabrication alloy. It has high malleability and work-hardens rapidly. It is great for die striking, but it is not well suited for casting because of its low hardness.

  • Pt950 heat-treatable alloys are ideal when spring action is needed or a harder product is desired. The hardening feature gives these alloys great flexibility.

[ ] Drukuj stronę