Platinum is the most valued of precious metals; its value normally exceeds that of gold. It has a beautiful silver-white color, and does not tarnish (as does silver). It is unaffected by common household chemicals and, unlike gold, does not get damaged or discolored by chlorine, bleach, or detergents. It is tougher than all precious jewelry metals, but still must be alloyed with stronger metals to prevent it from bending. Natural platinum contains small amounts of the rare element iridium. In jewelry, iridium is alloyed with the platinum to increase its toughness and durability. Gold is often mixed with platinum, giving it a light yellow hue.

USES
Platinum is the rarest and most expensive of the precious metals. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, and other jewelry figures are fashioned from platinum. It is usually the base metal for colorless or light blue gems. Platinum jewelry is rare and exotic, and is the fastest growing jewelry material in the world.

SIMILAR GEMSTONES
The few metals that achieve the bright metallic-white color and luster of platinum are softer, lighter in weight, and tarnish. Thus, platinum is easily distinguished.

ALSO SEE

• The mineral Platinum
• Silver
• Gold

PICTURES

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