Mens Wedding Rings

More on Platinum

The Misconceptions & the Truth

Platinum work requires special skills on the part of the metalsmith, and a "dedicated" set of tools for work on platinum only.

Unlike gold or silver, platinum becomes so bright during heating that the metalsmith must wear special goggles to protect the eyes during soldering, annealing, and melting.

Platinum requires extensive knowledge and expertise to properly work with. Most retailers metals equipment are for working gold only.

For years, some in the jewelry industry have been harboring misconceptions about platinum. Now that more companies are working in the precious metal again, more and more jewelers are learning valuable lessons about working with platinum.

Misconception:
Platinum is difficult to work with; metal-smiths need an extreme amount of expertise. Platinum is not difficult, just different. The learning curve is steeper, but a good metalworker can master platinum's differing properties.
The Truth:
Anyone with a modicum of experience can learn to work in platinum. It's true, however, that working in platinum does require extra time, especially in the finishing process.
Misconception:
Platinum jewelry must be plated with rhodium.
The Truth:
Platinum by itself is white enough so rhodium plating is not neccessary.