Bold, Everlasting, Beautiful Platinum

Jun 5

Sponsored by Platinum Guild International

A perfect pick for engagement rings of every style

We’re about to let you in on a jewelry-industry secret: The most precious precious metal isn’t gold. It’s platinum, and for good reason (or actually, several). When it comes to durability and maintenance—or lack thereof—no other metal quite compares. Add to that platinum’s signature strength (and ability to keep diamonds secure), and it’s clear why it tops the charts. (And did we mention? Unlike some gold jewelry, platinum is hypoallergenic.)

Couples seeking a white metal for their wedding sets have traditionally had the choice of platinum or white gold. The two can look similar, but don’t let appearances fool you—they wear quite differently. Platinum is naturally white, while white gold is actually yellow gold, mixed with alloys like nickel and zinc to lighten its appearance. White gold is also almost always coated with rhodium (a metal in the platinum family) to make it appear white, but will yellow over time and need to be re-plated regularly. Platinum, on the other hand, is nearly pure (typically 95%). It won’t require plating, and it will always keep its natural white color and hold diamonds most securely, making it a perfect choice for heirloom jewelry.

“Platinum is the choice for a customer who wants a white metal but is also very sentimental about their jewelry. If the charm of a vintage design appeals, I find they will appreciate the characteristics of platinum.”
— Lisa Robin, Owner and Designer, Lisa Robin Fine Jewelry

Convinced by all of platinum’s superlative properties, but not sure if it suits your own signature style? Here are five unique engagement rings that put platinum’s versatile appeal on display.

For Adventure Seekers

This combo of diamonds (the hardest gemstone) and platinum (an exceptionally strong precious metal) makes this ring as enduring as it gets. Plus, the stones are bezel-set, meaning there are no prongs, so when it comes to keeping the diamonds put there’s nothing to catch, snag, or break. The result? A ring made for every adventure, that doesn’t sacrifice on style. (We also love the subtle milgrain around the bezels, which lends a vintage, feminine vibe.)

The Meredith by Lisa Robin, $1,195

For Antique Treasure Hunters

There’s something so very special about a vintage engagement ring. Maybe it’s the thrill of the hunt, or the impressive craftsmanship reflected in handiwork created before today’s technology. Or maybe it’s the romance of a treasure well-loved, long before it reached your hands. If you’re looking for a style with a little history—and the longevity to become a future family heirloom—a platinum piece like this vintage ring won’t disappoint.

Mid-Century Platinum Diamond Cluster Ring, $3,395 at Schiffman’s

For Nature Enthusiasts

Doyle & Doyle uses sustainable jewelry practices (such as sourcing post-consumer diamonds and recycled metals) in their vintage-inspired Heirloom collection. This beauty features an old European-cut diamond and an engraved floral motif along the shank. (Fun fact about platinum: It’s fantastic for engraving because it’s malleable yet dense, creating an ideal surface for beautiful details, like those on this ring.)

Heirloom by Doyle & Doyle Flower Engagement Ring, $5,900 at Doyle & Doyle

For DIYers

Crafty folks will appreciate this out-of-the-box design by artist Todd Pownell, known for sustainable jewelry that celebrates the earth’s raw materials. The organic flow of inverted and face-up diamonds make it a work of art that captures light from every angle, and the hammered texture shows off its handmade platinum craftsmanship that will develop a beautiful patina with wear. Bonus points for the gender-neutral aesthetic—anyone could rock this ring.

TAP by Todd Pownell Inverted and Face-Up Diamond Eternity Wedding Band, $3,590 at I. Gorman

For Design Buffs

If you’re the couple who could talk design for a lifetime, you’ll love this modern ring from Egyptian-Dominican designer Angie Marei, chock-full of ancient symbolism. The architectural columns of ancient Egypt were a large source of inspiration, and structures featuring hand-carved motifs of lotus flowers are echoed in the design. You’ll notice sacred geometry, too: An 8-sided octagon frames a perfect circle, two shapes uniting symbolizing heaven and earth and the unification of two energies creating an infinite connection.

Marei New York Octavian Brilliant Round-Cut White Diamond Engagement Ring in Platinum, Price Available Upon Request

Pro Tip for the Soon-to-be-Engaged

Don’t forget the wedding bands (and we don’t just mean on the big day)! It’s understandable for the engagement ring to take center stage during wedding planning, pushing wedding bands to the back of your to-do list. But we recommend shopping for your wedding band (and your partner’s) while picking out your engagement ring—you’ll be guaranteed to have a set that looks great together (plus it will already be checked off your to-do list).

If you select a vintage engagement ring or a ring with a unique setting (like this band from Angie Marei), there’s a good chance you’ll need to have a custom band made to sit with it. Custom pieces often take several months to make, so you’ll need to start the process well in advance of your wedding date. By going the custom route, you also have the opportunity to personalize the rings so they’re extra special.

Marei New York Octavian Brilliant White Diamond Eternity Ring in Platinum, $3,200 at Marei

Editor: Rebecca Daly
Wordsmith: Sam Van deWalle

Sponsored by Platinum Guild International

Every item featured is personally selected by our writers and editors (read: we're totally into it). Please know that when you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission (read: we get to keep doing what we love).