Platinum

Platinum is so rare it takes 10 tons of ore to produce one ounce of platinum. In fact, all the platinum in the world would fit into a swimming pool. That rarity means that platinum is the most coveted of all precious metals: a fitting tribute to your love.

Platinum jewelry is 95% pure and hypoallergenic, making the precious metal a fantastic choice for those with allergies and metal sensitivities. Platinum is one of the densest metals: it has a suprising heft you will notice immediately when you hold a piece of platinum jewelry. Platinum rings weigh about 60% more than the same rings in 14K gold. Many think that the weight of platinum jewelry feels luxurious to wear.

Although platinum was treasured by the ancient Egyptians and Incans, its value went unrecognized for centuries. While panning for gold in 16th-century New Granada, Spanish Conquistadors discovered white metal attached to gold nuggets, and named the metal platina, or little silver. Considered by some to be an unripe form of gold, platinum was largely ignored and thought worthless. Its fame grew slowly. Louis XVI of France later declared that platinum was the only metal fit for royalty. By Art Deco times, platinum was the only choice for fine jewelry. The Duchess of Windsor declared that gold was only for daytime jewelry: black tie affairs called for platinum necklaces, platinum earrings, and platinum bracelets.

More durable than most metals yet malleable, platinum rings can be delicate yet strong. While white gold needs rhodium plating to stay bright and silver can tarnish, platinum jewelry stays brilliantly white and maintains its luster. While platinum jewelry does scratch, the metal is simply displaced, not lost. That means when you buy Facets by Susong's platinum earrings, rings, bracelets, they'll be the same beautiful pieces that you can pass down to your grandkids as treasured heirlooms. Platinum also holds diamonds, rubies, emeralds, or any gemstone you choose the most securely of any metal. The Hope Diamond is set in a platinum necklace.

Why is platinum jewelry so expensive? It's purity means a platinum ring is 95% platinum, while a 14k gold ring is just 58% gold. Platinum's density means a similar sized piece weighs more and platinum is priced by the ounce. In addition to the durability, purity, and rarity of the metal, working platinum into beautiful jewelry requires a higher level of skill. If you're looking for a worthwhile investment that will last lifetimes, platinum jewelry is right for you.

Clean your platinum jewelry with mild soap and warm water, and gently wipe or brush with a soft cloth or toothbrush. Jewelry cleaning solution will also keep your platinum jewelry shining.