Everything You Need to Know About Platinum Rings

With its lustrous, silver-colored tone, it’s no wonder platinum is one of the most popular metals for fine jewelry. The metal started to be widely used in fine jewelry by designer Louis Cartier toward the end of the 19th century, and his innovative use of it brought out both its luster and strength. It became increasingly popular in the 20th century, and today, it’s many couples’ material of choice for rings.

Jeweler and designer Ryan Atlas says he’s continually impressed by platinum’s staying power when it comes to engagement rings and wedding bands. “Although different types of gold have risen and fallen in fashion over time, platinum has maintained a steady fan base for decades for its color, durability, and luster,” he says.

Curious if platinum is the best ring metal for you? Read on for everything you need to know about platinum engagement rings.

Pros and Cons of Platinum Rings

Platinum engagement rings are extremely durable. “It sustains small scratches more easily than other metals and may start to take on a matte appearance,” Atlas says. “Like fine leather, these scratches actually make platinum jewelry more durable and beautiful.”

Also, platinum is naturally hypoallergenic, making it safe for anyone with allergies or sensitive skin. “It’s a versatile choice that will accommodate a variety of metal sensitivities,” says Atlas. Platinum rings look especially lovely when set against sparkling diamonds. Add in its timelessness and it’s easy to see why it’s so in demand.

One drawback is its weight, as platinum is heavier than 14k or 18k gold. Platinum can also be more expensive than gold rings. 

What to Look for in a Platinum Ring

Here are a few questions and answers you should know before purchasing a platinum ring.

• What type of certification should I look for in a platinum ring? A genuine platinum ring should have an imprint that certifies it is platinum, including the percentage of platinum composition.

• What are the levels of platinum purity? A platinum ring should list its platinum composition. If it’s marked 950, that means it is 95 percent platinum, which is a high level of purity. If there is no mark, that means it has less than 50 percent platinum, or none at all. Some platinum rings are mixed with palladium. Palladium is slightly harder, making it more scratch-resistant but also more difficult to resize than platinum. It is also a bit darker in color, lacking the extra luster platinum offers.

• Do platinum rings maintain their color? Yes, platinum will maintain its color, unlike white gold, which periodically needs to be re-plated, Atlas says.

How to Care for a Platinum Ring

Platinum is very resistant to corrosion, making it a very low-maintenance metal. “Platinum’s beautiful silvery-white color coupled with its gorgeous shine is one of the reasons it’s so highly sought after. It will also maintain its color over time while other metals can lose theirs as they age,” Atlas says.

Platinum is easy to polish at home, which can save time and money since you don’t have to take it to a professional jeweler for cleaning. Use a gentle cleaner or mild dish soap and warm water to clean it.

Ahead, scroll through 20 platinum engagement rings and platinum wedding ring sets.