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Glossary Shortcut
Don't understand a word? Find it in our glossary.
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There are a number of different factors to consider when choosing the metal for
your engagement and wedding rings. You might already have an aesthetic preference
for one over the other. The comparison chart and in depth information below can
help you sort through the practical side of your decision. With American Diamond
you are in good hands regardless of which metal you choose - we only use platinum
for the setting's prongs because platinum's superior strength provides added
security.
|
Character |
Price |
Repairs |
| 18K Gold |
Traditional.
The warmth of yellow gold is the classic engagement ring look. |
Less Costly.
Not as durable as platinum, 18K rings are reinforced with other metal alloys
and generally consist of 75% gold. |
Gold is more
prone to damage, but repairs are simpler and generally inexpensive. |
| Platinum |
Timeless.
As the purest metal, platinum has a clean, modern look and unparalleled
durability. |
More Costly.
The purity of platinum comes at a premium. Most rings are 90-95% pure platinum. |
Although
harder to repair, platinum is so damage-resistant repairs are a minor consideration. |
The purest metal, this white-colored metal is unparalleled in strength and durability.
For this reason, platinum is used for all prong settings. When considering everyday
wear and tear on your jewelry, keep in mind that platinum, unlike gold, is virtually
impermeable to the acids that can be found in household cleaners, swimming pools,
et cetera.
Since platinum weighs more than gold and is used in a purer form, it typically
costs 2 to 3 times more than 18K white gold. It is highly resistant to damage,
although if it is dented, the repairs are more difficult because of the materials
strength.
Plat 900 = 90% Platinum metal 10% other
Plat 950 = 95% Platinum metal 5% other
The Classic engagement ring is a diamond solitaire in 18k yellow gold. 18k gold
is reinforced with other metal alloys to increase its strength, because pure
gold (24 karat) is far too soft. It is also less costly than platinum, and much
more easily repaired (although also more prone to damage)
Refer to the following chart for the corresponding percentages of gold within
an alloy:
24K = 99.9999% pure (that is as pure as it gets)
18K = 75% gold 25% other metals
14K = 57% gold 43% other metals
12K = 50% gold 50% other metals
At American Diamond, we only sell platinum and 18K gold jewelry. |
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