Both precious metals, platinum and silver have long been considered attractive options for those wishing to purchase fine jewellery that isn’t gold in colour.
The two metals entered the fine jewellery scene at strikingly different stages of history. Silver’s use in jewellery dates back to 5000 BC, whereas platinum jewellery first appeared in the 1800s.
Both precious metals have pros and cons; however, platinum is considered the more esteemed of the two. This is due to the fact that platinum’s “mass fraction” (how many kilograms can be expected to be found per billion kilograms of the earth’s crust) is five parts per billion. Silver, on the other hand, is much more common, with a mass fraction of around 75 parts per billion.
Outside of this difference in scarcity, there is a list of other factors that separate these two fine metals from one another. Throughout this article, we run you through a few of these differences so you can pick them apart like a pro. Let’s start with a look at the primary differences between platinum and silver.
Key differences between platinum and silver
Although quite similar in appearance, a closer inspection reveals quite a few determining factors that set platinum and silver apart. These differences range from the physically observable to unseen characteristics, such as the atomic construction of the metals themselves.
Appearance
Let's begin by addressing the differences in appearance, particularly the disparities in colour of platinum vs silver. While at first glance both silver and platinum appear to be clearly silver in colour, the two metals are actually easily discernible to the naked eye. Both have grey undertones, unlike white gold, which has a warmer, yellow undertone. These grey undertones vary, however. Platinum is much brighter and shinier than silver, which has a duller, grey appearance.
Both platinum and silver develop a unique patina over time, but the nature of this patina varies significantly between the two. Patina, a layer that forms on the surface of these metals, is a testament to their journey through time and environment.
Platinum doesn’t tarnish, meaning this patina is a subtle and sought-after feature, enhancing its character without compromising the metal's integrity. It's a gentle shift in appearance, adding depth and a storied aspect to platinum jewellery. Unlike tarnishing, which is often seen as undesirable, the patina on platinum is valued for its aesthetic appeal and is a sign of authenticity and quality.
Silver, in contrast, experiences tarnishing – a form of corrosion that results in a darker, often blackened layer. This tarnishing process, a reaction to sulfur-containing substances in the air, can detract from the metal's original lustre and requires regular cleaning to maintain its shine.
While some may appreciate the vintage look that tarnish can give to silver, it is generally seen as a sign of wear that needs to be managed, unlike the naturally elegant ageing of platinum.
Durability
Where durability is concerned, there really is no contest between platinum and silver. Silver is a soft metal that both wears down quickly and tarnishes easily. Conversely, some of the biggest advantages of platinum are its high melting point, durability, and resistance to tarnishing, which means it does not require any alloys.
Platinum rings often consist of 90-95% pure platinum, which makes them perfect for standing up to the test of the everyday wear-and-tear required for an engagement ring.
Do be mindful, though. Though more durable than silver, platinum can still acquire scratches over time and with consistent wear. Usually, you can remove these scratches with relative ease.
Maintenance
Understanding the maintenance requirements for silver and platinum is crucial in preserving the beauty and longevity of your jewellery. Each metal has its own specific care needs to ensure it continues to shine and reflect its best qualities.
Platinum is celebrated for its durability and ease of maintenance. Its resistance to tarnishing means that it requires less frequent cleaning compared to silver. To maintain the lustrous sheen of platinum, occasional polishing with a soft cloth is usually sufficient.
For deeper cleaning, a mild soap solution can be used to gently wash the platinum piece. It's also recommended to have your platinum jewellery professionally cleaned once in a while to maintain its pristine condition.
Silver, on the other hand, demands more attentive care due to its propensity to tarnish. Regular polishing is necessary to keep silver jewellery looking its best. Using a special silver polish and a soft cloth, you can effectively remove tarnish and restore the metal's original brightness.
It's important to store silver jewellery in a cool, dry place, preferably in an anti-tarnish bag or cloth-lined jewellery box, to slow down the tarnishing process. Additionally, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and removing silver jewellery before swimming or bathing can help preserve its appearance.
Price & investment value
The difference between platinum vs silver is even clearer where price is concerned. Silver is one of the most affordable jewellery metals on the market, which makes it great for simple costume jewellery that goes in and out of style.
With this in mind, platinum is well worth the investment when the item is a piece of fine jewellery you expect to wear quite often (if not daily.) It's one of the most expensive metals used for jewellery making, second only to rhodium (which is typically only found as a coating over gold to increase its durability.)
From an investment perspective, while silver offers immediate accessibility and the flexibility to follow fashion trends, platinum represents a more enduring value. As an investment, platinum's rarity and lasting appeal often translate to a more stable and potentially appreciating asset over time. This makes it a preferred choice for those looking to invest in jewellery with both personal and financial significance.
Wear & care
When it comes to hypoallergenic properties, the comparison between sterling silver and platinum is quite distinct. Platinum stands out as a preferred metal for those with sensitive skin. Its inherent purity and low reactivity make it naturally hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of skin irritation. This quality is especially beneficial in jewellery that is in constant contact with the skin, such as rings and bracelets.
On the other hand, while silver itself is not typically an allergen, it's often the metals alloyed with it that can cause allergic reactions. Nickel, commonly used in alloys for white and rose gold jewellery, is a notable allergen.
This factor tilts the balance in favour of platinum for individuals seeking hypoallergenic jewellery options. Understanding the nuances of metal allergies, including what causes metal reactions, is crucial for those with sensitive skin.
Stampings & markings
Understanding the hallmarks of platinum and silver jewellery is key to identifying their authenticity and quality. Hallmarks, the stamped markings found on jewellery, reveal the metal's content and can differ significantly between platinum and silver items.
For silver jewellery, hallmarks typically include a fineness mark like "925," indicating sterling silver, which consists of 92.5% pure silver. This hallmark is a standard indicator of sterling silver's purity and is widely recognized. For a more detailed understanding of silver markings, enthusiasts can refer to resources like 925-1000.com, which offers a comprehensive list of silver stamps and marks.
In contrast, platinum jewellery is often marked with stamps such as "PT," "Pt," or "Plat," signifying that the item is made of platinum. These markings indicate a high level of purity, usually 90-95% platinum, reflecting its status as a premium metal in jewellery making.
The absence of any markings on a piece of jewellery doesn't necessarily imply inferior quality. It could be due to various reasons, such as the piece being crafted in a country where hallmarking isn't mandatory or the item being an antique, made before hallmarking was standardised. Additionally, items made by semi-professional craftsmen might lack these marks, especially in the case of silver, as amateur silversmithing is more common than amateur work with platinum or gold.
Testing your metal
If you’re still unsure which precious metal your jewellery comprises, you can always try one or more of the following tests!
Magnet test
For the magnet test, simply run a magnet over your jewellery. Most pure precious metals aren't magnetic, so if you place a magnet near your jewellery, you shouldn't see any movement in the piece.
If your platinum jewellery reacts to a magnet, however, there’s no need to panic. Pure platinum is a soft metal, meaning it is often alloyed to strengthen its finish. Cobalt, which is quite hard, is becoming popular as a platinum alloy. Because cobalt is slightly magnetic, some platinum jewellery may still react to a magnet.
Platinum/cobalt alloys will usually be stamped as PLAT, Pt950, or possibly Pt950/Co. The most common alloy used to harden sterling silver is copper, which is not magnetic. If you have a piece of sterling silver jewellery with a .925 stamp attracted to a magnet, you should consult a reputable jeweller to verify its authenticity.
Scratch test
If you've exhausted all other methods and are still uncertain whether you have platinum or silver, you can conduct a scratch test from home by buying an acid scratch test kit. If you don't want to do it yourself, a jewellery store or precious metal refiner can always do it for you. As daunting as it sounds, a scratch test is perfectly safe for your jewellery.
During the test, your piece is scratched against a scratch stone, leaving behind a small sample of its contents. A dropper then dispenses one or two droplets of acid onto the sample. In platinum's case, if the sample extracted from your piece dissolves, then the item is not platinum. If conducting the acid test yourself, always wear latex or vinyl gloves to protect your skin from the acid!
Platinum vs silver: which is right for you?
So is platinum better than silver? Having explored the distinct characteristics of platinum and silver, you should now feel confident deciding the answer based on your needs.
If you're leaning towards platinum for its durability and timeless elegance, 7879 is an excellent place to begin your search. Our chic platinum jewellery collection offers a range of designs, from the intricately detailed to the elegantly simple. Whether you're seeking rings, necklaces, charms, or more, 7879's platinum offerings cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Both platinum and silver have their unique appeals. If you're in the market for a lifelong luxury piece, such as a wedding band, platinum is an unparalleled choice. Its enduring quality and classic beauty make it ideal for such significant investments. Discover our exquisite platinum rings that symbolise love and commitment. On the other hand, if you're looking for something more affordable and suited for fashion-forward, trendy pieces, silver is a fantastic option. It allows you to enjoy the latest styles without a substantial financial commitment.
Whether you choose the lasting luxury of platinum or the versatile affordability of silver, both metals offer unique benefits to suit your individual style and needs. Explore our platinum bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and pendants to find the perfect piece that resonates with your personal taste.