Platinum

For many women nowadays, platinum is the metal of choice when choosing a setting for their diamond engagement ring. Platinum is a white metal that is very dense, and consequently is extremely strong and durable. Generally, it is used in an almost pure form. Due to its purity, it will not tarnish or lose its colour.

People ofthen ask if white gold is the same as platinum and the answer is quite simply, no. "White" gold does not exist in a pure form, and is obtained by mixing yellow gold with nickel or palladium. Nickel, in particular, is known to cause skin irritation in susceptible people. After the white gold ring is made, it must be coated with another metal called rhodium, which is a white chemical coating. This coating must be reapplied every couple of years to keep the band looking white.

Platinum, on the other hand, is permanently white in colour, and since platinum is used in its pure form (generally 95% pure), the colour remains true for the life of the ring. While platinum is considerably more expensive than white gold, the extra expenditure is well worth it in the long run. Platinum is a comparatively rare metal, much rarer than gold, which means that the price of the setting will be about double the cost of a similar setting made of white gold, but the rarity and longevity of the metal only increases the beauty and value of the ring.

Platinum engagement rings are very popular today not just because of their durability, but also because of their bright white appearance. The platinum engagement ring is known for it's breathtaking white sheen, which complements perfectly the brilliance and sparkle of the diamond(s) set within it.

However, for those who prefer the look of yellow gold, 18 carat yellow gold is 75% pure and does not usually cause the skin irritations associated with white gold.

DiamondFind.co.uk