In the 1900’s the use of platinum for rings peaked in popularity with the heavy metal resistant to tarnishing and wear, and when polished it did not lose any of the metal quantity as gold was prone to do. Many of the antique platinum engagement rings found today are cleaned, polished, and brought back to the original appearance.

Several tons of platinum ore is mined to produce enough metal for the jewelry and its price fluctuates with availability, but typically costs less than twice the price of gold. When first discovered, platinum was considered too hard of a metal to be worked into jewelry, but in 1803, the method was discovered to make it malleable, which led to the creation of what are now antique platinum engagement rings in Edwardian fashion. Louis Cartier was the first to fashion rings from platinum and due to their exquisite beauty when set with diamonds, he was named the Royal Jeweler by King Edward VII.

While there are many antique platinum engagement rings on the market, others without so much history behind them are often considered as classic. Not just because of their age and in the time period in which they were produced, but because of their style. Some of the more pure platinum will appear grayish white in color, sometimes mistaken for titanium or silver, but will be considerable harder.

Platinum Also Used In Many Industries

Like many precious metals, the use of platinum is not limited to jewelry. It is also used in the tips of some spark plugs in the automotive industry as well as in catalytic converters in exhaust systems. However, its use in antique platinum engagement rings was the first for personal use. So resistant to wear and corrosion, King Henry XV declared platinum the only precious metal fit for a king to wear.

Many times people will stumble upon antique platinum engagement rings and not realize the type of metal from which it is made. The only means of determining the authenticity of antique platinum engagement rings is to have them examined by an experienced jeweler. When they do not realize what they have, some may have the precious gems removed and placed into other settings, hoping to improve the value of the stones.

While many jewelry stores will charge of evaluating the worth of a diamond or a complete piece of jewelry, many will offer verification of the type of metal used in the setting at a reduced price.