I pick gold and platinum because they make jewellery easy to craft, durable to wear, and simple to maintain. Below I explain the key reasons in short sections with clear bullet points. I write in the first person and use active sentences so everything stays direct and readable.
Shape, weight and finish — malleability · specific gravity · luster
I value metals that shape reliably and finish well.
- I use malleability and ductility to form fine details and tight settings without cracking.
- I favor a solid feel — specific gravity gives weight that readers notice.
- I choose gold for its warm luster and platinum for a bright white sheen that flatters stones.
Choice of karat and alloy — 14K · 18K · 950 platinum · alloy
I select karat and alloy to control hardness and color.
- I pick 14K or 18K to balance durability and sheen.
- I adjust hardness with alloys (copper, silver) based on design needs.
- I use 950 platinum when I need strength with minimal alloying.
Stone setting and metalwork
I rely on predictable metal behavior for secure settings.
- I form prong and bezel settings that protect gemstones.
- I solder and finish pieces knowing the metals hold shape and resist frequent repairs.
- I find pavé and filigree easier with metals that respond well to tools.
Everyday durability — wear resistance · scratch resistance · tarnish-resistant
I choose metals that stand up to daily life.
- I use platinum for wear resistance and long-term volume retention.
- I match gold karat to expected wear — lower karat usually increases hardness.
- Both metals are largely tarnish-resistant, so maintenance stays simple.
Skin safety and finish
I consider wearer comfort and finish longevity.
- I recommend platinum for sensitive skin because it’s largely hypoallergenic.
- I check for nickel in gold alloys and avoid it for allergy-prone clients.
- I advise rhodium plating for white gold and occasional replating to keep the bright finish.
Value and trust — hallmark · purity · recyclability · provenance
I treat precious metals as both material and asset.
- I verify hallmarks (karat for gold; 950 for platinum) to confirm purity.
- I consider gold and platinum recyclable and likely to retain intrinsic value.
- I confirm provenance and conflict-free sourcing when it matters to clients.
Quick takeaway — practical reasons I prefer gold and platinum
- I choose these metals for reliable workability, secure stone setting, and lasting durability.
- They keep maintenance predictable and preserve resale value.
- For many designs and clients, gold and platinum deliver the best balance of craft and practicality.
FAQs — quick answers I give clients
Q: What’s the main difference between gold and platinum?
I tell clients gold and platinum differ in density, color, and behavior. Platinum is denser (heavier), naturally white, and keeps volume longer under wear. Gold (in 14K/18K) is softer by nature but easier to work with and offers warm luster. I consider alloy mix, karat, and budget when choosing between them.
Q: What does “karat” mean?
I explain karat as a measure of gold purity: 24K is pure gold, 18K is 75% gold, and 14K is 58.3% gold. Higher karat gives richer color and softer metal; lower karat increases scratch resistance.
Q: Is platinum hypoallergenic?
Yes — I usually recommend platinum for sensitive skin because it’s largely hypoallergenic. Gold alloys can contain nickel, so I check composition or choose nickel-free alloys for allergy-prone wearers.
Q: Does white gold need rhodium plating?
I often put rhodium plating on white gold to achieve a bright white finish. Over time the plating wears and I suggest periodic replating to restore the look.
Q: Which metal wears better over time — gold or platinum?
I pick platinum when I want long-term volume retention and fuller prongs; it displaces rather than loses metal. Gold scratches more easily, and repeated polishing reduces metal over many years, so I match karat to expected wear.
Q: How should I care for gold and platinum jewellery?
I recommend:
- Regular gentle cleaning with mild soap and a soft brush.
- Avoiding harsh chemicals and chlorine.
- Annual professional checks for prongs and settings.
- Rhodium replating for white gold as needed.
Q: Can rings made of platinum or gold be resized?
Yes — I resize both, but I note differences:
- I find gold easier to resize and solder.
- Platinum is harder to work and requires specialized tools and solder, so I use an experienced jeweller.
Q: How do hallmarks and purity stamps work?
I always check hallmarks: karat stamps on gold (14K, 18K) and purity marks on platinum (usually 950). They confirm purity and affect resale value and trust.
Q: Are gold and platinum good investments?
I treat them as recyclable assets with intrinsic value. They’re not the same as market investments, but they generally hold material value and are resellable.
Q: How should I choose between gold and platinum for a piece?
I decide based on:
- Budget (platinum usually costs more),
- Skin sensitivity (choose platinum or nickel-free gold),
- Design needs (fine settings and heavy wear favor platinum),
- Desired color and weight (gold for warmth; platinum for bright white and heft).