Learn More About Precious Metals
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Discovery of Platinum
Platinum is a dense, silvery-white precious metal known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and its usefulness in jewelry and science. Symbolized as Pt on the periodic table, it belongs to the group of noble metals and is one of the rarest elements in the Earth’s crust.
Platinum has a long history, first used by Indigenous peoples in South America as early as 1,000 CE in platinum-gold alloys for ceremonial objects. European explorers encountered the metal in the 16th century while mining for gold, but, unable to melt or refine it, they dismissed it as a nuisance and called it “platina,” meaning “little silver.” It was not until the 18th century that scientists studied and recognized platinum as a distinct and valuable metal, admired for its rarity, durability, and resistance to corrosion.
Technicalities
Platinum has a high melting point of 1,768°C (3,214°F) and excellent resistance to heat and chemical attack. On the Mohs scale it measures around 4–4.5, but its remarkable tensile strength and density (21.45 g/cm³) make it highly resistant to deformation and everyday wear.
Chemically symbolized as Pt and classified as a noble metal, platinum remains stable in oxygen and most acids, dissolving only in aqua regia (a highly corrosive mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids).
Type of person metal is suited to
Platinum is an exceptionally rare and special metal. It appeals to those who prefer silver or white-toned metals but also value durability, hypoallergenic properties, and resistance to corrosion and tarnish.
Beyond its striking appearance, platinum is celebrated for its remarkable durability and resistance to wear. It rarely scratches, fades, or tarnishes, making it an ideal choice for jewelry meant to last a lifetime.
View our selection of platinum jewelry on our website. Orders over $100 ship via complimentary UPS Ground; orders over $1000 ship via complimentary UPS Overnight.
Availability & Mining Locations of Platinum
Platinum was once commonly found as a secondary metal in alluvial deposits, but primary magmatic sulfide deposits now dominate global platinum production. A major source of platinum occurs alongside nickel and copper deposits. South Africa, Russia, Zimbabwe, and Canada are significant producers of platinum, followed by the United States, which has smaller mining operations mainly in Montana. The leading producer is South Africa, due to the natural occurrence of platinum-bearing sulfide minerals such as cooperite within the Bushveld Igneous Complex.
Other Applications
Beyond its role in jewelry, platinum is a crucial industrial metal valued for its exceptional durability, heat resistance, and catalytic properties. It is used extensively in catalytic converters to reduce vehicle emissions, in hydrogen fuel cells to generate clean energy, and in the chemical and petroleum industries to refine oil and produce fertilizers and high-octane fuels.
Platinum catalysts are also essential in curing silicone, enabling the production of medical-grade materials, sealants, and flexible molds. Its stability and resistance to corrosion make it vital in electrical contacts, thermocouples, and high-purity glass manufacturing.