Tuesday, March 17, 2009

You Can't Beat Platinum For an Elegant Wedding Ring

By Twyla Ness

Platinum is more than just a fine metal. When made into a wedding ring, it has a timeless appeal that can steal your heart. Platinum wedding rings are often more costly than a wedding band crafted from white gold, even though they look very much alike. Frequently, they are nearly double the price. But the reasons for the cost variance can be easily explained.

Platinum can retain its shape far beyond any other alloy. It is concentrated and can maintain its symmetry even with the daily stresses that a wedding ring frequently undergoes. It also resists scratches and nicks, a regular worry. But because it's such a rare metal, it's much more expensive than the alternatives.

Yet there could be a reason to get a platinum wedding ring that trumps all the rest. Platinum is sensational in its appearance. A platinum ring is almost completely pure metal. Most are 90 to 95 percent pure, so a platinum ring has more substance and brilliance. However, the remaining portion isn't just a common filler material. Iridium, osmium and the like are other components that combine to create the spectacular appeal of these fine rings.

Platinum has an exceptional luster that can't be replicated by any other alloy. Even among the finest metals such as gold and silver, it stands out as a most desirable choice in jewelry.

Platinum has been a component of wedding rings for thousands of years. It was employed by the ancient Egyptians who were drawn to its magnificence. Artisans of South America utilized "little silver", as it was called, in numerous decorations. When Louis XVI caught on to this precious metal in the 18th century, its place of honor in contemporary times was secured.

Thankfully, the tradition didn't die out, and we are able to benefit from it today. Platinum wedding rings now encompass a vast range of designs. When made from platinum, the simplest of designs can become elegant and sophisticated. This material requires nothing but itself to offer an elegance that anybody could wear with pride. But there are also lots of ways to dress it up.

A few simple gems can elevate a basic platinum band to the status of a family heirloom. Take your already attractive platinum ring and add an exceptionally well cut diamond, and you've reached a new level in elegance. Just the ring alone without any stones will show off your sense of style. - 15252

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