Platinum and silver have been used for many years to make durable and beautiful jewelry, flatware, and other ornaments. Deciding which precious metal to buy can be difficult, especially when they look similar. However, platinum and silver have distinct differences that you should pay attention to in order to make an informed decision. Follow this platinum vs silver guide to learn more and tell the two metals apart.
What is Platinum?
Platinum is known as one of the rarest and most expensive metals in the world. The price of platinum can double during times of economic stability and growth, and there are also common types of platinum scrap that you can search for and sell. Its purity is often between 85 and 95 percent, and it is not a single metal like gold or silver. A family consisting of six metals - iridium, osmium, platinum, palladium, rhodium, and ruthenium - and almost every metal in this group is used to make ornaments.
What is Silver?
Silver, on the other hand, is a popular metal found around the world that is more affordable and available. Not only is it made into jewelry and silverware, but it has also been used as currency throughout history. Metals such as copper, nickel, and zinc are often added to silver to increase its durability, as it is malleable. The popular term 'sterling silver' refers to metal alloys consisting of 92.5 percent silver, while the rarer 'fine silver' contains 99.9 percent silver.
Differences between Platinum and Silver
At first glance, it can be difficult to tell platinum and silver apart based on their appearance. Both precious metals are gray, but platinum has a much whiter hue and is brighter than silver.
There are also big differences in the proper care and maintenance of platinum and silver. If you want to buy jewelry that will last a long time, you need to check if it can withstand wear and tear. Platinum is a strong metal with a high melting point and is a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings. Although it can develop a dull appearance after long use, it can be easily polished by a professional jeweler. Silver, on the other hand, is a relatively soft metal that is susceptible to tarnishing and damage. It is known to wear down over time and therefore requires a lot of care, such as frequent polishing. Compared to platinum, silver is less durable and may not be suitable for everyday use.
They also differ in price. As mentioned earlier, platinum is one of the most expensive metals on the market today due to its rarity and durability. When choosing between these two metals, value is an important deciding factor. Silver is undoubtedly less expensive and you can replace it more often considering the wear and tear. If you are making an investment, it may be worth spending more money on platinum to keep it longer. If you are looking to buy silver or platinum, AGR Gold offers a wide range of precious metals and services to meet your needs.