Platinum is a precious metal that does not oxidise and is more resistant to corrosion than gold or silver, which makes it perfect for creating durable jewellery. Nearly 400kg of ore is needed to produce just a single gram of platinum, making it much rarer and more expensive than gold.
Due to its strength and longevity, platinum is traditionally given as a symbolic gift on 70th anniversaries.
Lucky enough to own some platinum jewellery? Here are some top tips to keep it sparkling…
- Use a specialist jewellery cleaning liquid or make a mild soapy solution using lukewarm water and a few drops of mild detergent such as baby shampoo or washing up liquid
- Soak your jewellery for a few minutes, then use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush around any jewel settings, intricate designs or areas where dirt may be trapped
- Rinse lukewarm water to remove any residue, then dry and polish with a lint-free jewellery cloth
- While platinum is an incredibly strong metal that does not tarnish, it can scratch – store platinum pieces individually in a jewellery box or bag to prevent them from coming into contact with other items
- Over time platinum can develop a natural grey patina, but because of its purity it is hypoallergenic and perfect for those with sensitive skin – if you wear rings, thoroughly rinse your hands after washing them to ensure no traces of soap are left under your jewellery, as it could irritate the skin
