Did you recently debate with your friends about platinum and diamonds? Are you wondering why the two are so famous and not sure which to choose for your engagement ring? Well, this article will help you understand the difference between platinum and diamond.
The two materials are durable, strong, luxurious, and naturally radiant. For that reason, they tend to become confusing to most people, and that’s why we think it’s best to address the issue. Besides, you’ll find it helpful when selecting pieces of jewelry like rings.
To avoid making the wrong decision, we’ll tell you why you should choose platinum or diamond.
What is platinum?
Platinum, discovered in 1735 in South America, is an attractive silvery metal among the six transition elements in the periodic table. It features an atomic number of 78 and a weight of 195.09. Therefore, its overall atomic structure allows it to bond with other elements easily.
It is also a rare metal to come by, and its extraction process is quite complex- probably this is the reason why it is one of the most valuable metals today.
Platinum is used in many areas, including making jewelry, dentistry, cancer drugs, etc. Its appealing appearance, inertness, resilience, and strong resistance to corrosion and tarnishing make it one of the best metals to manufacture medicines.
Why choose platinum?
When going for jewelry shopping, platinum is almost certainly at the top of your list. And rightfully so. Platinum, as previously stated, is a very appealing metal and is one of the best choices you can make when purchasing jewelry.
Are you on the hunt for an engagement ring? Is it a present for someone? Or maybe you just want to add to your jewelry collection? Here are a few reasons why platinum is a wise investment:
- It is durable– We all want something that will last a lifetime, and platinum checks that durability box. Platinum features a density of 21.5 grams per cubic centimeter at room temperature. As it stands, the higher the density, the more durable the piece is.
- It is hypoallergenic– Can you imagine spending a lot of money on jewelry that you can’t wear because it irritates your skin. Well, that is not the case when it comes to platinum which is almost 95% pure. One characteristic that makes the metal hypoallergenic is its extreme purity, making it an ideal choice for you.
- It is a naturally occurring white metal– Most metals, including white gold, require some plating to have that white finish. This means that with time, they fade hence necessitating a re-plating. However, this is not the case with platinum. It is a natural and white metal that does not need any plating.
- Low maintenance– let’s be honest; no one enjoys the frequent visits to the jeweler. If you purchase a piece of jewelry made of platinum, you can say goodbye to the many visits.
- It is timeless– handing down your jewelry to future generations is a tradition that dates back to the dawn of time. Platinum jewelry is not only one-of-a-kind, but it’s also long-lasting, meaning that you can pass it down to your family, and it will still be intact.
What is a Diamond?
‘Shine bright like a diamond’ is a phrase that you’ve probably heard so many times when people talk about this rare gemstone. It is hard not to notice someone wearing a diamond piece, be it a ring, a necklace, bracelet, or earrings.
So, what exactly is it? A diamond is a rare gemstone that is made up of 99% of carbon as its native element. It is formed in the earth’s mantle at high pressure and temperature, around 100 miles below the earth’s surface.
Besides that, the diamond shines brightly due to its high luster, enabling it to reflect a maximum amount of light.
Why choose Diamond
We can all agree that owning a diamond piece is worth an investment. Diamonds are exquisite and unique, which make you stand out in a crowd. Even if you’re wearing the tiniest piece of diamond jewelry, you can be sure that someone will notice it. So much so, it instantly elevates your look. As a result of that, this begs the question, why choose a diamond?
- It is durable– As mentioned, diamonds are made under high temperatures and pressure. This, in turn, makes the diamonds one of the most rigid gems on earth. For you to cut diamond, you will need diamond bladed tools as diamond only cuts diamond. Even better, diamonds are tough to break, so you can be confident that your diamond jewelry will last a lifetime.
- Perfect size– Diamonds come in different sizes. For that reason, you have the option of choosing the size that suits you best. If you love the small cuts, then don’t hesitate to get them. Similarly, if you love the bigger pieces, you’ll get your cut. And the good thing is that you can easily store the diamonds even in a small space regardless of the size you purchase.
- Timeless– Besides the fact that diamonds are durable, they are also timeless pieces. Diamonds will and can never go out of style. You need not worry that you may look old-fashioned when wearing a piece of diamond that you bought years ago.
- Fit for any occasion– whether you are getting engaged, married, gifting someone, attending a work function, you can rock your diamond jewelry. Adding a pair of diamond jewelry to your overall look takes it a notch higher.
What is the difference between Platinum and Diamond?
Both platinum and diamond are timeless pieces popularly known for their unique attractiveness. In fact, they are both used in making some of the most attractive rings that we have today. When the two come together, they make beautiful pieces that are, of course, durable.
Besides, most people prefer such rings, which is a symbol that shows that the couple is stronger together and are willing to do life together for as long as they live.
As much as the two are a perfect combination used to make engagement and wedding rings, they have some differences. So, let us look at some of them.
Material
One of the main differences is that platinum is metal while diamond is a gemstone. Platinum is a naturally occurring metal with a purity level of about 95%. Moreover, the purity of platinum is what is used to grade it. On the contrary, the quality of the diamond is measured by the 4c’s- cut, clarity, carat weight, and color.
Price
Their pricing points is another difference between platinum and diamond. The price of platinum depends on its weight and rate per gram. That is, the higher the purity (95%), the higher the price. Diamond’s pricing, on the other hand, is determined by the 4c’s. The higher the grade of each of the c’s, the higher the cost of the diamond.
Hardness
Diamond and platinum differ in hardness. Remember when we said earlier that you could only cut a diamond with another diamond? Well, that tells you a lot about its nature in terms of its hardness. Based on MOH’s scale of hardness, diamond is rated at 10, whereas platinum falls between 4-4.5. Clearly, diamond is by far much harder compared to platinum.
The hardness of any material primarily determines its vulnerability to scratches. In this instance, platinum can be scratched by any more rigid metal than it is, whereas diamond with a 10 (MOH’s scale) rating is scratch-resistant.
Maintenance
You can wear your diamond jewelry every single day, and it will still maintain its form and shape over time. However, platinum will develop ridges on its surfaces with everyday wear, but your jeweler can easily polish it.
You might as well notice a change in the color of platinum after wearing it for a while. This hue, known as patina, is nothing to worry about as it gives a ring a vintage, classical look. If you like the piece’s original color, you can have it rhodium plated.
Which one to choose: platinum or Diamond?
When choosing between diamond and platinum, this has to be one of the most challenging decisions you have to make. The reality is that both platinum and diamond are invaluable, and they both have their perks.
The one to choose will depend on various factors, including how deep your pocket is. Diamond is the most expensive one, but worth every penny.
Whether you choose diamond or platinum, we believe it will be a perfect choice for your needs.
Conclusion
Both platinum and diamond are excellent materials with remarkable endurance. Sometimes, artisans even consider the two as a perfect combination for making rings. However, if you have to choose between platinum and diamond, consider factors like their hardness, price and material.
Did you find this article educative? Then don’t forget to leave a comment telling us what’s the best part. You can also tell which material you would choose and why.
