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 Every
car in Great Britain has platinum in its catalytic converter,
which reduces emissions.
Only about one-third of the platinum mined today is used in jewellery,
where it consistently commands higher prices than the purest gold.
It is interesting to note that there
are no stockpiles or "reserves" of platinum in any government
or banking storage.
In order to extract one ounce of platinum, about 10 tones of ore
need to be mined. Then the refining process begins taking over
five months.
Platinum belongs to a family of six metals, platinum, palladium,
rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and osmium.
Platinum is a
naturally white metal and will maintain its lustre for ever unlike
other white metals which turn yellowish in time.
The weight of
platinum is one of it's strongest selling points, it has a satisfying
weight which people naturally equate with value.
As the platinum
used in jewellery is 95% pure, it is hypoallergenic. All the platinum
used in AndrewBerry.co.uk's jewellery is 95% pure which is the
finest grade available. Other metals are added to the pure platinum
to give it its strength.
Platinum is extremely
dense and is much heavier than silver or gold. Settings made from
platinum hold the world's most precious gemstones but remains
the goldsmiths choice when only the best will do.
Like gold, platinum
is ideal for setting your diamonds and gemstones. However, to
enjoy it to the full, make sure to keep it clean and safe.
While it is the strongest of metals, it can scratch and develop
a lustre of wear. Many people prefer this look, but if you like
it to be shiney like new then a good jeweller can polish it back
to the original high polish.
Do not wear your platinum jewellery during rough work or handling
household chemicals. Keep it in a jewellery box away from other
pieces so that it does not get scratched. Also regularly check
the settings and if any claws seem loose then immediately take
it along to a professional for attention.
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Silver 
