Deciding between gold and platinum jewelry can be a tough decision. Both are beautiful, durable, and, in many cases, the differences between them can be hard to spot. However, looking a little deeper will reveal that they are actually very different. Because of this, when you are deciding between gold jewelry and platinum jewelry, you have many things to consider.
At Central Mega Pawn, we always want to help our customers make the best decisions possible! To that end, we not only have an in-house jeweler on staff, but we also educate ourselves on the differences between the precious metals. And we are now proud to present this handy guide that we have compiled to help you determine which is the right choice for you: gold jewelry or platinum jewelry? Keep reading to learn some of the most significant differences that will help you make your decision.
Care and maintenance
People often assume that gold and platinum jewelry require the same long-term care because of how similar pieces look at the purchase time. However, this is not true!
Gold is a beautiful, precious metal and is often treasured by people who own gold jewelry. But, especially in regard to white gold, the aging process must be taken into consideration. White gold is actually a mixture of gold and other precious metals, such as silver or nickel. Then, it is rhodium plated to make it look whiter and give it that fantastic mirror finish.
Over time, and with consistent wear, the plating will wear off, and the piece’s natural yellowish color will emerge. To restore it to its original shine, you would need to take it to a jeweler to redo the rhodium plating. Depending on how often you wear the item, caring for it may be considered something of a commitment.
Platinum, meanwhile, ages somewhat differently due to its purity. Unlike gold, it will not turn yellow. However, over time platinum jewelry will lose its shine and begin building a natural patina. Many collectors appreciate the patina, accentuating other aspects of the piece and showing wear that is unique to the wearer. To restore its finish, you would need to take it to a jeweler for a professional polish.
Lifespan
Another significant difference between gold and platinum that you should consider is durability and lifespan. Platinum is very hardy. It has been described as the most durable metal used in jewelry production. A significant factor in this durability is how differently platinum and gold handle wear like scratches.
When gold, especially white gold, becomes scratched, gold is actually lost from the item. Platinum, on the other hand, behaves differently. When platinum is scratched, no metal is lost. Instead, the metal is pushed around from one place on the item to another, which creates the patina so prized by many collectors. And, when a jeweler polishes it, the metal is pushed back into place and is like new once again.
So, if durability is a factor when you are looking to buy a fine piece of jewelry, platinum should be at the top of your list. Platinum jewelry can be handed down through generations and reconditioned over and over.
Available purity
Because gold is a soft metal, it is mixed with other metals, which form an alloy that makes it stronger. That is why you will find gold jewelry with a purity rating of below 18k. Any higher, and the jewelry would be incredibly soft and delicate—collectors who price high carat gold jewelry love how light it feels.
Platinum is the opposite. It is a solid and heavy metal when it is found in most jewelry and is the densest precious metal on the market. This gives it the heft and weight that jewelry fans either love or dislike. If a heavy ring sounds unappealing, platinum may not be the way to go.
Allergy concerns
When trying to decide which is better for you, platinum or gold, you will also want to think about possible allergic reactions. Many designers and retailers claim that their jewelry is hypoallergenic. However, because consumer gold is mixed with other metals, there is a chance of skin irritation and allergic reactions. In many cases, the only way to find out if there is an irritant is to wear it for a while and observe.
Platinum, meanwhile, is the actual only true hypoallergenic precious metal that you can buy because of its purity. Wearers who have sensitive skin may prefer platinum jewelry to be safe.
Budget
One of the most significant considerations when you are trying to decide between platinum and gold is the hit to your budget. In almost every case, platinum will be the more expensive option due to its rarity and purity. In fact, gold is mined far more than platinum. In 2018 alone, 3,332 tons of gold were mined, compared to 190 tons of platinum. This discrepancy in mining leads to high prices for platinum jewelry.
All of these factors, and more, can play a significant role in making the right decision for your needs. If you need further guidance, you have many options. If you have not already, your local pawn shop should be at the top of your list!
At Central Mega Pawn, we are uniquely qualified to help you decide which is better for you: gold or platinum? Not only do we have years of experience assisting people to find the right piece of jewelry for their needs, but we are also only one of a few pawnshops nationwide to have an in-house jeweler on staff.
When you need help deciding what kind of precious metal is the right choice for you, we can help you find it and also get it at a great price. If you live in or around the Inland Empire, visit us in person or online today, and let us show you why we are the area’s go-to resource for all your jewelry needs! We are your local jewelry experts.
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