Jewelers polish platinum using a multi-stage process involving mechanical abrasion with progressively finer compounds and wheels, starting with heavy cutting media for deep scratches, moving to finer abrasives, and finishing with soft buffs and rouge for a high luster, often preceded by burnishing (smoothing without removing metal) for best results, as platinum is tough and requires significant preparation to achieve its bright, mirror-like finish.
For platinum polishing, stitched and treated buffs are most effective. Unstitched buffs are too soft and will round all edges. Their softness cannot create necessary pressure and friction at the contact point, so polishing will take longer.
Jewelry Cleaning and Polishing Services
Polishing Services: Removing shallow scratches and restoring a mirror finish costs around $80 for most gold, silver, or platinum pieces. Prices can vary based on metal type and scratch depth, with premium polishing reaching $100 or more for larger items.
You can get your ring professionally polished; buff it yourself with a soft cloth to restore the shine; or carefully clean the ring with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. You'll need to do this periodically, because patina does come back.
But why do jewelers not like platinum? The answer lies in its unique properties that make it both a prized and challenging material to work with. Platinum is significantly denser than gold, making it heavier and more difficult to shape. This density also causes tools to wear down faster, increasing costs for jewelers.
Clean and polish regularly
Clean your platinum jewelry at home with soap and water at least once a month to maintain its shine and remove dirt buildup. Polish your piece with a soft, lint-free cloth (jewelry-specific polishing cloths are even better) before and after you wear it, or at least once a week.
Its dense, durable nature means it doesn't easily react with most chemicals. However, platinum is not completely impervious to damage. Chlorine, in particular, can affect platinum, albeit less severely than sterling silver or gold. Repeated exposure to chlorine can cause platinum to develop a dull appearance over time.
Can I use toothpaste to clean gold or platinum? No. Toothpaste can scratch both 14K and 18K gold, and it may dull or damage rhodium plating on white gold. Even platinum, though strong, can lose its high-polish finish with repeated exposure to abrasives.
The "3-month ring rule" is an outdated marketing guideline suggesting spending the equivalent of three months' salary on an engagement ring, a concept created by De Beers to boost diamond sales, evolving from earlier one and two-month suggestions. Today, it's widely seen as a myth, with most couples prioritizing personal financial comfort, open communication, and meaningful choices over this arbitrary rule.
Gold Vs Platinum Long-Term Value
Both metals maintain their value, but platinum's high purity and density contribute to its lasting worth. Gold also retains its value and is relatively easy to sell, but platinum typically has a higher resell value due to its rarity and resistance to tarnishing.
Routine inspections and professional cleaning help preserve the beauty and durability of your jewelry. Taking a proactive approach not only extends the life of your jewelry but also protects against expensive repairs or the heartbreak of losing a precious gemstone.
Caring for your platinum ring
Remove your platinum ring when doing manual work. Don't handle bleach or harsh chemicals when wearing your platinum wedding ring. Although they won't hurt the platinum, chemicals may discolour some of the softer gemstones.
Yes! White vinegar is great for cleaning gold, platinum and gemstones. Drop your jewellery into a glass of vinegar for 20 minutes, agitating occasionally, before rinsing with water and air drying on a towel.
Platinum does not lose its shine permanently. What happens is the development of patina, a soft, satiny layer that appears on the surface after months or years of wear. This is not dullness but a refined texture created by the displacement of metal over time.
Only polishing will remove scratches from gold and platinum. However, the patina of fine scratches that develops over time can add beauty to the jewelry and can reflect the journey a piece has taken. The polishing process removes metal and is only recommended to be carried out a few times over the life of the piece.
While Windex is generally safe for diamonds and sturdy metals like gold or platinum, avoid using bleach, chlorine, or abrasive cleaners that can damage your ring.
Yes, Dawn dish soap is generally safe for cleaning diamond engagement rings. It's a mild detergent that can effectively remove dirt and grime without damaging the metal or stones.
The metal's high volatility also means you could see sharp drops in a short period. If you're looking for a pure store of value, gold remains the safer bet. Platinum can still be a worthwhile purchase if you love the look and the durability, but you should treat it as a fashion expense rather than a financial asset.
Platinum jewelry does not fade or tarnish and keeps its looks for a lifetime. Platinum's purity makes it hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin.
The only disadvantages to platinum are the higher cost and heavier weight. For example, platinum is a great metal for necklaces, bracelets and rings but not earrings, because the heavy weight may pull down more on your ears and cause discomfort.
Platinum is one of the most durable and hypoallergenic metals used in fine jewelry. It is highly resistant to corrosion and tarnish , making it safe to wear in the shower . However, even platinum can accumulate soap residue over time, so it's still a good idea to remove it occasionally for cleaning.