Platinum was first used by the ancient Egyptians approximately 3000
years ago. The first platinum jewelry in Europe was made for the court of Louis XVI in
1780.
Platinum jewelry created for the American market is typically 95 percent pure as
opposed to gold jewelry in which 18 Karat is 75% pure and 14 Karat is 58.5% pure.
Platinum is denser than gold. An equivalent size platinum bar will weigh 60% more than
a pure gold bar. It is twice as heavy as silver or lead.
Platinum is rarer than gold. To produce a single ounce of finished platinum, a
total of 10 tons of ore must be mined.
Platinum is stronger and more durable than gold. A platinum ring typically has a
longer life than a similar style made in gold.
Platinum is also hypoallergenic and tarnish-resistant.
For these reasons, platinum jewelry typically costs more than a similar design executed
in gold.
We recommend diamonds over 1 carat be mounted in 6 prong platinum setting.