​What is 950-Platinum Jewelry?

Posted by PlatinumOnly on Aug 8th 2023

What is 950-Platinum Jewelry?

950-Platinum is a jewelry composition where 95% is pure platinum and 5% comprises other metals like ruthenium, iridium or cobalt, enhancing its hardness and workability. Platinum stands out for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tarnish, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for exquisite jewelry. Unlike gold, which loses material when scratched, platinum merely displaces it, preserving its integrity. This toughness, combined with its inherent lustrous beauty, makes it unparalleled in the jewelry world. For an unmatched selection of 950-Platinum pieces, shop at PlatinumOnly.com.

Key Differences between 950-Platinum, White Gold, and Silver:

  1. Hallmarks:
    • 950-Platinum: Jewelry items often have hallmarks, which are tiny stamps or engravings that indicate the metal's purity. For 950-platinum, look for marks like "950", "PT950", or "PLAT".
    • White Gold: Hallmarks might be "14k", "18k", "WG" or the actual percentage of gold such as "585" (58.5% gold which is 14k) or "750" (75% gold which is 18k).
    • Silver: Common hallmarks include "925", "Sterling", or "S925", indicating sterling silver which is 92.5% pure silver.
  2. Color and Luster:
    • 950-Platinum: It has a naturally white luster that doesn't fade or tarnish over time.
    • White Gold: While also white in appearance, it might have a slight yellowish tint, especially as the rhodium plating wears off over time.
    • Silver: Typically has a bright white shine, but it tarnishes over time turning blackish.
  3. Weight:
    • 950-Platinum: This metal is denser and will feel significantly heavier than white gold or silver of the same size.
    • White Gold and Silver: Both are lighter in comparison.
  4. Durability and Wear:
    • 950-Platinum: Extremely durable and doesn't lose metal when scratched. Scratches only displace the platinum, leading to a characteristic patina over time.
    • White Gold: Can wear down over the years and may need re-plating to retain its white shine.
    • Silver: Softer than platinum or white gold, and can get scratched more easily.
  5. Price:
    • 950-Platinum: Typically, the most expensive of the three due to its rarity and purity.
    • White Gold: Priced lower than platinum but varies based on the karat and current gold prices.
    • Silver: The most affordable among the three.
  6. Hypoallergenic Properties (Read More):
    • 950-Platinum: Platinum is naturally hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin or metal allergies. This characteristic means that wearing platinum jewelry often reduces the risk of allergic reactions, such as skin irritations or discolorations.
    • White Gold: While gold itself is relatively hypoallergenic, white gold alloys often contain other metals like nickel, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Those with metal sensitivities may need to be cautious and choose nickel-free white gold or another hypoallergenic alternative.

In Conclusion:

To accurately identify 950-platinum jewelry from white gold and silver, inspect the hallmarks, consider the metal's weight, and observe its color, luster, and wear characteristics. Knowing these differences ensures that you appreciate the true value and beauty of your jewelry pieces. For an exquisite collection of 950-Platinum jewelry, don't forget to visit  PlatinumOnly.com.

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