Do Platinum Rings Turn Yellow?

A stylish statement piece, a brilliant commitment symbol, and a lasting memento − your wedding band or engagement are all these things and more. So, when you are choosing a meaningful jewelry piece, you need to make a few hard decisions.

If you are planning to buy a white metal, you have two popular choices in front of you: Platinum and white gold.

So, which one should you choose?

Mostly, people look at the price first, which is a factor worth considering. Platinum is more expensive than white gold because the former metal is 30 times rarer than the latter metal. It is mined much less, which raises its price.

Did you know that around 2,700 tons of gold are mined every year compared to platinum’s 80 tons? You have your answer right there!

Platinum is denser, which means that a platinum ring made keeping the same weight as a white gold ring will weigh more. Since platinum is a precious metal, it is priced by weight and not other factors, such as its finished design.

From a durability point of view, platinum does not turn yellow! However, it does lose its luster, which is what we are here to discuss. To understand why this happens, let’s take a look at the metal first.

To see the most popular platinum rings just click here.

Understanding the Metal Platinum

The natural luster and allure of platinum make it a desirable white metal. Before buying it, a few concerns probably crossed your mind, including:

• How long will it last?
• Will the shine fade away?
• Will it tarnish?
• Can I get it re-polished?

As a top-rated metal, platinum is one of the best and in-demand materials in jewelry. However, in order for the jewelry to be labeled as platinum, it must have around 95% of white metal. This is why platinum jewelry pieces are considered pure.

Many people believe that platinum does not tarnish. This is a myth!

Yes, platinum is a strong, pure, and extremely durable white metal. However, it is not resistant to tarnishing. When we say that platinum jewelry is made of 95% of this white metal, it means the ring or bracelet is 950 parts platinum and 50 parts other common metals.

Long-Term Care For Platinum

Whenever the topic of “Does Platinum Tarnish?” is discussed, white gold is always mentioned. A common misconception that people have about white metals is that they perform the same. Starting with white gold, this metal has quite the drawbacks.

White gold is made with yellow gold, and other metals including palladium, silver and nickel. The prepared jewelry is dipped in rhodium, which gives it a shiny and white finish. This is why white gold and platinum look the same.

It’s important to understand that when the rhodium plate wears off, the yellow color of white gold starts to appear. This does not mean that the metal is susceptible to tarnishing. It simply starts to lose its luster due to the metals reacting with your sweat and chemicals.

For platinum, this white metal builds patina. Since platinum is a pure metal, it will slowly lose its finish. You won’t see any yellow coloring, but it’s possible you might see a shade of green. This is called patina, which is something many people don’t mind. They believe it gives the jewelry an antique look. Again, platinum jewelry too can be re-polished by a jeweler.

Does Platinum Tarnish or Rust Like Silver?

Platinum will forever look the same as the day you bought it. This might sound confusing to you, but this white metal does and does not tarnish. It won’t corrode like silver. However, it will develop a matte finish-like layer, which will change the jewelry’s appearance slightly.

In comparison, silver is less durable; it loses its shape over time and thins out. Moreover, it is prone to tarnishing. Obviously, this white metal is less expensive and a good jewelry option, but it does not hold a candle to platinum. 

Does Platinum Turn Yellow?

Platinum does not change its color. As mentioned above, it does develop a patina, which gives it a slight greenish-brown hue. Some people like the matte finish and believe it enhances the jewelry’s look.

Does Platinum React to Chlorine?

Since platinum jewelry contains 95% of white metal, it does not react to chlorine. Its corrosion-resistant makes it non-reactive. However, it is advised that you exercise caution when wearing fine jewelry. Make sure to take off the rings when you are eating something messy that requires the use of your fingers, and remove them when taking a shower or going swimming.

Does Platinum Lose Its Luster in Saltwater?

Avoid wearing any type of jewelry when swimming in the lake or ocean. You will be glad to know that saltwater does not hurt platinum. If you forgot to take off your jewelry, no worries.

However, copper, pewter, and silver are not so lucky. From saltwater to sweat and chemicals, just about everything can tarnish these metals. They will be greatly damaged, making the jewelry unsalvageable.

Conclusion

We can tell you with confidence that platinum does not turn yellow. However, it does develop a patina, which is a matte finish that changes the appearance of the jewelry.

Platinum is superior in every way because it does not tarnish, is corrosion-resistant, and is a true hypoallergenic white metal. These are qualities that no other white metal possesses. Since the ratio of other metals in platinum jewelry is less, it won’t irritate your scan. You can wear it everywhere, and it won’t get damaged upon exposure to saltwater, chlorine, sweat, and chemicals. However, before buying this white metal, make sure you are not allergic to it because that’s a whole different matter.

So, if you are going shopping for an anniversary gift, we suggest buying a platinum ring or bracelet is the best option. You know what they say − you can never go wrong with jewelry!