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Because engagement rings are treasured pieces of fine jewelry, they are traditionally created from the most precious metals available, rated in value by several features.
 Rarity, one of the features that comprise a precious metal, is highly valued in the jewelry industry. Platinum, like a diamond, is very rare and costs a bit more because of its limited availability. Of all the precious metals, platinum is the most rare--30 times more rare than gold.
Purity is all about how much platinum or gold you’re getting in your ring. For example, 18 carat gold (75% pure) is purer than 14 carat gold (58% pure), making it more valuable. Platinum 900 or 950 (90% and 95% pure) are the most pure of all wedding ring metals.
Color is the third feature. Gold is naturally yellow but can be mixed with alloys to give it a white, pinkish, greenish, reddish, or even bluish tint. The majority of today’s brides prefer a white metal for the engagement and wedding band, which brings out the diamond’s natural beauty, adding maximum sparkle and flash.
Platinum is the only white metal that retains its whiteness over time. Some designers experiment with titanium, which is not a precious metal, or even rhodium, which is sometimes used to plate yellow gold to help make it white. And, although white gold can look similar to platinum, it needs to be replated every few years to maintain its white color, adding unnecessary expense, maintenance, and inconvenience on an ongoing basis.
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Platinum, like a diamond, is very rare and costs a bit more because of its limited availability.
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18 carat gold (75% pure) is purer than 14 carat gold (58% pure)
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The majority of today’s brides prefer a white metal for the engagement and wedding band, which brings out the diamond’s natural beauty.
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