What are the differences between silver and platinum?

As for jewelry, silver and platinum They are two popular and widely used metals. They share some characteristics, so it is not easy for an untrained eye to distinguish them. So: what are the differences between silver and platinum?

According to the most consulted encyclopedia in the world, Wikipedia, on precious metals, in jewelry these “are usually gold (Au), silver (Ag), platinum (Pt), rhodium (Rh) and palladium (Pd). )”.

The first different feature is that platinum is denser, durable and it’s another metal rare on the planet than silver, so it’s more costly.

In addition to silver it’s more ductile and it’s easier to work with. Being less expensive, it is an additional option accessible when choosing a jewel.

Both serve in different industries, but in recent decades platinum has added, thanks to its hardness and corrosion resistance, applications in the jewelry, automotive, electrical, electronics and battery industries, among others.

How to distinguish between silver and platinum?

According to the page Spanish specialist “I buy gold”, the physical property of both is difficult to distinguish with the naked eye.

Experts indicate that there are a number of tricks and techniques that are used to evaluate the authenticity of platinum or silver pieces.

“The colors are similar, as is the texture,” they indicate, but assure that they can be distinguished with “a slightly sharper appearance,” they indicate.

The silver pieces are distinguished by their whitish and shiny color., but with a gray tone that characterizes it. This also distinguishes it from platinum and white gold. Platinum is even lighter.

As mentioned before, the weight and density of both metals are also distinguishable: platinum is heavier. If we compare, for example, two rings of the same size, the silver one will be noticeably lighter.

Regarding the hardness or resistance of both metals, it must be said that silver loses when applied continuously. weight and pressurewhile platinum is one of the strongest minerals, preventing deformation years after being smelted.

Coincidentally, the Spanish Center for Investment in Gold and Diamonds (CIODE) ensures that platinum jewelry carries a hallmark to guarantee its authenticity.

“We have to find the words”Platinum”, “PLAT” or “PT”.‘ followed or preceded by the numbers ‘950’ or ‘999’. These numbers indicate the purity of the platinum. The purest is the one marked with the acronym ‘999’”, they underline.

It’s the same with silver: “The stamp with the numbers ‘999’ tells us that it is a piece made in pure silver; while the numbers ‘925’, followed or preceded by the letter “S” mean that it is sterling silver, mixed with another metal alloy.”

They also say that purer metals like platinum or silver are “not magnetic.” That is to say that if you placed a magnet near them it should not generate any type of attraction.