Is A Platinum Wedding Band Worth It?
With so many metal options to choose from for wedding bands, it's no wonder that many couples aren't sure if a platinum wedding band is worth the money. Platinum, the premium metal for wedding bands, is priced higher than other precious metals such as gold or silver. We hear this question quite often: Is a platinum wedding band worth it? There are several compelling reasons why wedding bands made of platinum may be worth the investment. Read on for more facts about platinum wedding bands that will help you decide which type of ring is right for you. To answer this question, let's dive into the qualities that make platinum such a desirable metal for a wedding band.
First and foremost, platinum is incredibly durable. Savvy couples know it is resistant to deformation and corrosion, making it an excellent choice for daily wear. Additionally, platinum is denser than other metals such as gold and silver, making it more resistant to loss of material and shape. This durability makes platinum wedding bands and engagement rings a smart investment since it's less likely to need repair or replacement over time.
Another reason why platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands is its rarity. Compared to gold or silver, platinum is much less abundant in the earth's crust, making it a more exclusive metal. Its rarity also makes it a symbol of luxury and prestige. In fact, platinum was seldom used in wedding bands until the 1990s, when jewelers began to develop better tools to work with the metal. Platinum still remains an attractive choice for those who value high-end materials. Platinum is also a store of value, since it's historically always been priced higher than gold.
Platinum's beauty is impossible to ignore. Platinum is whiter and stronger than white gold. Even if a platinum wedding ring is scratched, the ring is naturally white all the way through. Platinum's white color is especially suited for engagement rings and anniversary bands set with diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. Platinum has a naturally white, silvery color.
One misconception most people have about platinum is the idea that it will retain a mirror like polish no matter what. In fact, all platinum develops a patina over the years, which, like a strong and lasting marriage, develops its own history and memories. This makes it a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands. Its reflective quality also make it an attractive option. Even though platinum is more durable than gold and silver, it can be more difficult to maintain its shine than other metals. Platinum tends to scratch more easily than gold, because platinum is a softer metal. These scratches can be buffed out by a professional jeweler.
Platinum jewelry alloys are 100% hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin. Platinum is a noble metal and doesn't react with other metals. Platinum is also chemically inert and will not oxidize in air at any temperature. Unlike some other metals used in jewelry, platinum alloys do not contain nickel, which is a common allergen. This means that you can wear your platinum wedding band without worrying about it causing skin irritation or an allergic reaction.
With all of this in mind, is a platinum wedding band worth the investment? The answer depends on your priorities and budget. If you favor durability, rarity, and beauty, and are willing to invest in a premium quality wedding band, then platinum is definitely your best bet. However, if you have a limited budget or prefer a different aesthetic, there are other metals that could be a better fit for you.
White gold and silver are less expensive and have been popular choices for wedding bands for centuries. However, gold and silver are far less durable than platinum. White gold wedding bands must be re-dipped in rhodium to maintain their luster and appearance. Silver wedding bands oxidize over time and have less rigidity, so they become less round over time. Non precious metals, such as cobalt, tantalum, titanium and tungsten, have emerged in recent years as low cost alternatives. At Joy Jewelers, we offer wedding bands made of various metals to suit our customers' needs.