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Platinum
is one of the rarest and most durable precious metals. It is resistant
to tarnishing and discoloration due to chlorine and other chemicals.
These factors, along with its strength and white luster, have made platinum an
increasingly popular choice for jewelry, either on its own or as the
setting for diamonds and other precious gemstones. However, despite its
durability, platinum jewelry needs to be properly cared for.
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Platinum jewelry can be cleaned the same way
you can other fine jewelry. Your jeweler can recommend a prepackaged
jewelry cleaner that works with platinum, or ask your jeweler to
professionally clean your platinum pieces. A professional cleaning
every six months will keep your platinum jewelry in great shape.
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Store your platinum jewelry separately and
with care, not allowing pieces to touch each other because even platinum
can be scratched.
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Signs of wear such as scratches can
eventually appear on platinum. However, due to the metal's
durability there is usually little metal loss from the scratch. If
visible scratches do appear, your jeweler should be able to repolish the
piece.
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If your platinum is set with diamonds or
other precious stones, be especially careful as these materials can be
more susceptible to damage. Some fine jewelry pieces combine
platinum with karat gold jewelry. Care for these pieces as you would
your gold jewelry or consult your jeweler.
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