Thursday, July 23, 2009

The Platinum Standard


I had a wonderful lunch yesterday with some members of the Platinum Guild team. PGI (Platinum Guild International) is an organization that promotes platinum jewelry to both the trade and the consumer, and even better for me, they work with editors to show us all of the newest and most beautiful pieces available.

I find that a lot of people don't know the difference between platinum and white gold, so here's a little intro primer straight from PGI:

–Platinum is a naturally white metal so it will not cast any of its own color into a diamond.
–Usually 95% pure (by comparison 18 karat gold is 75% pure), platinum never fades or tarnishes but keeps its natural white color for a lifetime.
–As platinum is so pure, it is naturally hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin.
–Found in very few places around the world, platinum is 30 times more rare than gold.
–Platinum does not change shape or wear away so precious stones are held firmly and securely.

Most people only think of platinum for an engagement ring or wedding band, but there are plenty of companies making beautiful, fashionable jewelry and watches out of platinum. This is particularly a great choice if you have any metal allergies because platinum is hypoallergenic. Plus, it just feels luxurious and sturdy in your hand--ounce for ounce, platinum is heavier than white gold.

Want to see some of my favorites on Portero? Check these out:

Tiffany & Co Platinum Diamond Hexagonal Band Ring sz 6.25

Patek Philippe Vintage Platinum Diamonds Manual Winding Women's 3267/32 Watch

GIA Certified Platinum 3-Stone 2.40 ctw Diamond Ring sz 6

Gumuchian Platinum 2.75 ctw Diamond Clip-On Floral Earrings

IWC Pilot Chronograph Platinum Men's Automatic Watch