Platinum Engagement Ring – Pro's and Con’s for the Undecided

Platinum Engagement Ring – Pro's and Con’s for the Undecided

 

Rarity always comes at a cost. The harder it is to get your hands on something, whether it be a car, a piece of art, a collectible, the more expensive it is. That’s the golden rule in the diamond and jewelry industry. The rarer, the more sought after, the more expensive. Platinum is no exception and always comes at a higher price than gold and other alternatives. 

Is it worth it to shell out several hundred more dollars to have a platinum setting vs a gold setting on an engagement ring? This is definitely one of those questions that does not have a definitive answer and is often left up to the buyer. Here are some pros and cons to help the decision-making process when the time comes. 

 

Pro’s 

Durability 

When shopping for a ring, durability is a huge factor to consider. Hands are subjected to all sorts of elements. Potential of damaging a ring, losing a diamond, or losing the ring entirely, is not an unrealistic worry. Platinum is an incredibly dense metal and will not scratch, chip or splinter easily. The buyer may want to upgrade to platinum for the peace of mind of knowing the ring is more protected and less subjective to damage which in return can save the buyer money and time on repairs.  

 As an example, take a look at this beautiful emerald cut diamond ring in Platinum: 

7.90 Ct. Sequoia Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring H Color VVS2 GIA Certified

 

Hypo-allergenic  

One of platinum's biggest selling points, especially to someone who may struggle with sensitive skin, is that it is hypo-allergenic. Some people are allergic to the alloys used in gold such as nickel. An alloy is a combination of metals combined with one or more other elements. Unlike white gold, platinum is pure white and doesn’t need to be mixed with other elements. If the person wearing the ring has sensitive skin, wearing anything besides platinum can cause rashes and other side effects.  

 

 

Enhances color of center stone 

Platinum gives off a neutral, silvery-white, hue that accentuates the center stone and allows natural light to bounce seamlessly off the center stone. Going with platinum is a guaranteed way to get the most out of the center stone, whether it be diamond or another gem.  

 

 

Con’s 

Price difference 

Price is often a deciding factor for many buyers when it comes to shopping for an engagement ring. The price difference between gold and platinum will differ due to the ever-changing value of both elements. Platinum is denser than gold so more of it is used when making a ring, therefore making it more expensive. Platinum rings are also 95% platinum, whereas 14K gold is only 58.5% gold. A buyer will definitely get more out of a platinum setting but if it's not within the budget, it’s not a necessity 

 

 

Limited on color option with platinum 

Platinum can only be a white, silver color so if a buyer is interested in a platinum setting but wants to add a splash of color to the setting, they may want to reconsider or add color to the stones instead. Gold comes in yellow, rose and white, giving the buyer plenty of opportunity to customize the design and add their own special touches.  

 

 

Platinum has many great benefits and comes highly recommended to people shopping for an engagement ring, especially for the nervous buyer who wants to assure its safety and value for many years to come. A platinum setting is more durable and offers more protection from every day wear and tear, it’s a safe option for anyone with an allergy to alloys used in making gold, and it gives the center stone plenty of room to shine by allowing natural light to bounce seamlessly off it. There is no right or wrong answer to if upgrading to platinum is a necessity. It’s one of those factors when buying a ring that is completely up to the buyer. Platinum or gold, a diamond is just as beautiful.