Platinum

Platinum is a dense, heavy gray/white metal that is alloyed in order to increase its malleability, so as to enable the manufacture of engagement rings. It is hypoallergenic, very durable and permanently white. Typically the combinations of platinum alloy mixtures used are, 95% platinum with 5% iridium, 95% platinum with 5% ruthenium, and 90% platinum with 10% iridium. Platinum does not retain a high polished finish for very long. With wearing, it takes on a matt white appearance that requires frequent polishing to restore its original bright showroom finish.