You've just gotten engaged. Of course, your relationship is unique and you want an engagement as unique and valuable as your love. Why not use platinum?



Platinum has become the new standard of the highest quality. Credit card companies now tout their platinum cards. Where once a performer coveted receiving a gold record, platinum is now the mark to shoot for. Thus platinum engagement and wedding rings mark your relationship as the standard to shoot for too.

Most people think platinum is a newcomer among the precious metals. Actually it was known in ancient Egypt as early as 700 B.C., so it is an old metal. There are records of platinum/gold alloys in South Africa in 100 B.C. Scientifically, platinum was recognized as an element in 1700 A.D. but not really used much in jewelry until the early 20th century.

Platinum is used much more today but it is still rare and expensive, 30 times more rare than gold. In its natural state, it is grayish white. When used in jewelry, it is paired with iridium (in a ratio of 90 percent platinum to 10 percent iridium) to make it shine. Platinum is very malleable and more resistant to wear and oxidation than gold.

If you choose a platinum engagement , be careful: Platinum has been known to cause skin rashes. It also can tarnish easily. But keep in mind that more people are known to be allergic to gold than to platinum. As long as you try platinum rings on first to test your sensitivity, you should be safe. For the most part, platinum rings very little maintenance and will keep their brand-new appearance for a long time.

Budget conscious couples may be more attracted to titanium than platinum for their engagement rings. Titanium is certainly less expensive and is similar in color and durability to platinum. However titanium is difficult to cut and work with, so many jewelers don't like working with it. That's something to keep in mind if you want a custom-made ring.

When you go to select your ring, take your time. There are many beautiful styles available. One of them is bound to be just right for you. Or, you may consider having a ring custom made. Jewelers have custom-ring design software packages so they can make your ring exactly how you want it. Look online and in magazines for ideas of what you want and bring those ideas in.

While platinum is still very rare and expensive, it is a wonderfully durable metal, one that will make that all-important engagement ring a piece that is valued in more ways than one. By choosing platinum, you will have an heirloom that will last as long as your love for each other.