Despite not boasting as long a history in art and design as gold or silver, platinum jewellery has quickly become sought after for its elegance and durability in the world of fine accessories. However, when it comes to choosing between pure platinum and platinum-plated options, the decision isn't always straightforward.
Do you need to fork out for a solid platinum product, or does a thin veneer over another, cheaper metal suffice? This guide aims to provide a look at platinum plating, weighing the pros and cons of platinum and plating, and guiding you towards whether pure platinum or its plated counterpart is right for you.
The pros and cons of platinum-plated jewellery
Advantages of platinum-plated jewellery
While the appeal of solid platinum might seem clear, that doesn’t mean plating is entirely without merit. Platinum plating offers several benefits, making it an attractive option for many:
- Affordability: Platinum plating is significantly more affordable than solid platinum, making it accessible for those on a budget.
- Appearance: It mimics the look of real platinum, offering a similar lustrous, silver-white finish that adds elegance to any piece.
- Design variety: Due to its lower cost, platinum-plated jewellery is available in a wide range of designs, catering to diverse tastes and styles.
Disadvantages of platinum-plated jewellery
Impressed by the perks of choosing plated platinum? Well, don’t make your decision so soon. Despite its advantages, platinum plating also comes with certain drawbacks:
- Tarnishing and wear: Over time, the plating can wear off, revealing the base metal beneath and leading to a loss of the initial shine and colour.
- Allergic reactions: For those with sensitive skin, the base metals used in platinum-plated jewellery can cause allergic reactions.
- Shorter lifespan: Compared to solid platinum, plated jewellery has a shorter lifespan and may require frequent re-plating to maintain its appearance.
Now we have a handle on how plated platinum performs alone, let’s look at how it stacks up against the real thing: pure platinum.
Comparing platinum plated with solid platinum
Platinum is truly hypoallergenic
Platinum's hypoallergenic properties are unmatched in the realm of precious metals. Being 95% pure, it stands as the only truly hypoallergenic platinum option, making it ideal for those with sensitivities to other metals.
This purity ensures that pure platinum jewellery doesn't trigger allergic reactions, unlike some plated versions which may contain problematic base metals like nickel. Therefore, for those with sensitive skin, pure platinum is not just a choice but a necessity, offering both elegance and comfort without compromise.
Durability and longevity
When it comes to hard-wearing jewellery pieces, solid platinum outshines its plated counterpart. Solid platinum is inherently resistant to wear and tear, maintaining its integrity and appearance over time. Unlike platinum plating, which can wear off and expose the less durable base metal, solid platinum retains its lustrous finish without tarnishing.
Solid platinum pieces are a lifetime investment, often becoming family heirlooms, whereas plated jewellery may require frequent re-plating and care.
Value and investment
The value proposition of solid platinum versus plated options is clear. Pure platinum maintains its value over time, making it a wise investment choice. As a precious metal, solid platinum holds intrinsic value, which is not significantly affected by market fluctuations, unlike plated jewellery which depreciates faster. Solid platinum pieces are not just jewellery; they are investments that can be passed down through generations, retaining both their monetary and sentimental value.
So, while platinum plating may offer initial affordability and aesthetic appeal, solid platinum stands superior in terms of hypoallergenic properties, durability, longevity, and investment value.
Understanding the composition and manufacturing process
Okay, so we understand the pros and cons of buying plated platinum jewellery, but how does the production and makeup of plated platinum actually differ from solid, pure platinum?
The plating process
The manufacturing of platinum-plated jewellery involves a detailed process where a thin layer of platinum is applied over a base metal. This process typically includes several key steps:
- Selection of base metal: The process starts with choosing a suitable base metal, often less expensive options like copper, nickel, or silver. These metals provide the necessary strength and durability to support the platinum coating.
- Cleaning and preparation: The base metal undergoes thorough cleaning to remove any impurities. This step is crucial to ensure that the platinum layer adheres evenly and smoothly.
- Electroplating: The actual plating process is done through electroplating. In this method, the cleaned base metal is submerged in a solution containing platinum ions. An electric current is then passed through the solution, causing the platinum ions to bond to the surface of the base metal, forming a thin, uniform layer.
- Polishing and finishing: After plating, the jewellery is polished to achieve the desired shine and finish, closely resembling solid platinum.
The materials used
The materials used in platinum-plated jewellery differ significantly from those in solid platinum pieces:
- Base metals: Platinum-plated jewellery typically uses a core of less expensive metals like copper, nickel, or silver. These metals are chosen for their cost-effectiveness and physical properties, such as strength and malleability.
- Platinum coating: The platinum used in plating is the same as in solid platinum jewellery, but its application is much thinner. This thin layer provides the appearance of platinum but without the same depth and weight found in solid platinum pieces.
By contrast, solid platinum jewellery is made almost entirely of platinum, usually about 95% pure or higher. This gives it a heftier feel, a more substantial presence, and a higher value compared to platinum-plated pieces.
While platinum-plated jewellery offers the aesthetic appeal of platinum at a more accessible price point, it lacks the purity, weight, and overall quality of solid platinum.
Discover pure platinum jewellery for timeless elegance
Explore our platinum collection
When it comes to selecting jewellery that embodies both timeless elegance and unmatched quality, pure platinum stands out as an exceptional choice.
Explore our platinum collection to discover pieces crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that you're not just wearing jewellery, but a work of art. From sleek, contemporary designs to classic, elegant styles, our collection caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
We invite you to explore our platinum collection and discover pieces that resonate with your personal style. Embrace the timeless elegance of pure platinum and let your jewellery speak volumes about your refined taste.
Secure your investment in platinum
Recognised for its intrinsic value, platinum is not only a symbol of luxury and status but also a prudent investment choice. Its rarity and durability make it a sought-after commodity, ensuring that your investment retains its worth over time.
Choosing pure platinum jewellery means investing in something that preserves its beauty and value, making it an ideal choice for heirloom pieces that can be cherished and passed down through generations.
For those interested in learning more about the unique qualities and investment potential of platinum, we offer detailed insights into the world of 999 platinum. Discover why platinum is more than just a metal and how it can be a smart addition to your investment portfolio.