To call platinum a trend is a bit of a misnomer. Hardly new, platinum was revered even in ancient Egyptians’ time. By the end of the 19th century, it was the preferred metal for jewelry design, remaining so until World War II, when the government declared platinum a strategic metal and banned its use for jewelry. By the war‘s end, platinum simmered on the industry’s back burner.
Platinum Diamond Stud Earrings
Platinum and Fancy Yellow Diamond Fashion Ring
Now, 50 years later, platinum has re-emerged as more than a passing fancy. Heralded as the very best by such respected jewelers as Harry Winston and Neil Lane, and favored by celebs from Halle Berry to Jodie Foster, platinum has earned its renewed reputation as a precious metal as beautiful as it is enduring. Take a look at some of the fine examples at Loudoun Jewelry on Maple Ave., and you’ll see what we mean.
Rarer, more valuable and nearly twice the weight of gold, platinum designs can be up to 95 percent pure. Even so, platinum resists scratching, and is the strongest metal used in jewelry. Its purity also renders it free of allergens that can irritate the skin.
Platinum and Sapphire Eternity Band by Tiffany & CO
Vintage Platinum Diamond and Ruby Brooch
Pure, beautiful and everlasting, platinum perfectly embodies the love symbolized by wedding jewelry. As such, it’s practical for everyday wear, and an excellent showcase for diamonds because platinum’s natural white luster does not compete with their brilliance—just look at some of the diamond rings set in platinum when visiting pawn shops in Northern Virginia. Similarly, the radiant beauty of colored stones and pearls becomes the primary focus when these gems are secured in platinum. Even white gold retains a yellow tint that can detract from a stone’s shimmer or color.
Not just a companion for precious stones, platinum also fashions beautifully into scarabs, pendants or nature designs. Because it can be pulled into wire, it is perfect for intricate detail work, as well. Men find this metal’s heft masculine, and are sporting platinum cufflinks, tie pins and rings set with semi-precious stones. Platinum even combines beautifully with gold, making a dazzling color combination to expand your collection when you shop for jewelry in the DC area.
