I have a question about the FTC guidelines on platinum quality marking for a good friend of mine. Her husband's wedding band in stamped with 800Pt. I was reading on quality quidelines on the FTC website.
Here it states that platinum must be at least 850 ppt platinum and apparently any less is to be marked with it's pgm as well. This is the point I am unsure of- I don't know.
Also the people they purchased thier wedding rings from said that white gold was stronger and more durable than platinum for her ring- I thought the opposite was true, and that platinum is the best choice for setting diamonds in long term items like wedding rings, etc.
ANSWER..!
Platinum jewelry has taken a little change over the past few years, especially since the price has risen along with Gold.
In order for the industry to keep prices competitive, they have started to classify Platinum Alloys with the 800pt or 850pt marks etc - which is quite acceptable as they are NOT using the word 'PLATINUM' (which indicates the pure metal).
While that term (800pt) may be a little misleading, especially if it were not brought to the purchasers attention, it is never-the-less quite acceptable.
You also have to remember that not all jewelry is made in the States and many items made in Europe or overseas may not have such stringent rules and regulations.
Personally, if your friend knew the item was 800 grade alloy and was happy with the price - I'd be happy with that.
Regarding Platinum verses White Gold - White Gold is HARDER because of the way it is mixed with other metals. Traditionally Platinum is used for diamonds because it doesn't throw any colour into the gemstone. Diamonds are graded by their LACK OF COLOR so the less reflection from the ring - the better. Platinum wins for me, but it's still a personal thing.
Hope this helps.
Tags: ftc guidelines, ftc website, platinum alloys, platinum jewelry, stringent rules
