How to Care for and Maintain Platinum Jewelry

Platinum is a rare and precious metal, valued for its durability, natural luster, and hypoallergenic properties. However, even the most resilient metals require proper maintenance to retain their brilliance over time. In this guide, we’ll cover essential platinum jewelry care tips, including how to maintain platinum jewelry, remove scratches from platinum rings, store platinum, and more.

Does Platinum Tarnish?

One of the most common questions we hear when clients are considering a platinum wedding ring is “Does platinum tarnish?”. The answer is no. Unlike silver, platinum does not tarnish. However, it does develop a natural patina over time, which can give your platinum ring a slightly aged appearance. While patina is highly valued by many jewelry enthusiasts, you can prevent platinum patina by participating in regular platinum maintenance, which will keep your pieces looking new.

How to Clean Platinum Jewelry at Home

Many jewelers recommend taking your ring in for a professional cleaning one to two times a year. To preserve the shine and beauty of your ring between professional cleanings, you can easily clean your platinum jewelry at home with just a few steps: 

1. Use Mild Soap and Water – Start by mixing warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. One or two drops of soap to one cup of water should be plenty.

2. Soak and Gently Scrub – Let your jewelry soak in the mixture for about 20 minutes, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush the ring in the mixture, clearing away any dirt or buildup 

3. Rinse and Dry – Rinse your jewelry thoroughly under lukewarm water and dry with a lint-free cloth.

For extra shine, you can use a jewelry polishing cloth designed specifically for platinum. This simple at-home cleaning routine will have your friends and family begging you for secret tips on how to clean platinum jewelry.  

How to Remove Scratches from Platinum Jewelry

Platinum is a durable metal, but it is not scratch-proof. Unlike gold, when platinum scratches, the metal is displaced rather than lost, meaning the atoms of platinum are still in your ring- they’ve just moved around a bit. If you notice platinum scratches on your rings or bracelets, you have a few options:

• Buff with a Polishing Cloth – Minor surface scratches can be buffed out with a soft polishing cloth.

• Send for Professional Refinishing – For deeper scratches, jewelers can use tools to polish your platinum ring back to its original quality.

• Embrace it – Many people opt for a matte finish on their platinum rings, which does a good job of disguising surface scratches and dents. By embracing the organic matte finish of your platinum ring, you won’t need to worry about small scratches that appear over time.

How Often Should You Get Professional Cleaning?

While home cleaning is essential, professional maintenance ensures your platinum jewelry remains in excellent condition. It’s recommended to have your pieces professionally cleaned and inspected every six months to a year. This allows your jeweler to:

• Restore the polish and remove deep scratches

• Check for loose stones or weak prongs

• Maintain the overall structure of your jewelry

If you own a platinum ring for men, especially one with diamonds or intricate designs, professional care is crucial to maintaining its luxury appeal. 

What Can Damage Platinum Jewelry?

Although platinum is highly durable, certain conditions can affect its appearance and longevity. Here are some things to avoid:

• Harsh Chemicals – Avoid exposing your jewelry to chlorine, bleach, and abrasive household cleaners, which can compromise the quality of your ring

• Rough Handling – While platinum is strong, repeated hard impacts can cause scratches or bends in delicate settings.

• Improper Storage – It is important that you store platinum jewelry separately from other accessories to prevent scratches and damage. (Consider a fabric-lined jewelry box or pouches)

By following these platinum maintenance tips, you can ensure your jewelry retains its elegance for years to come. Whether you own a platinum ring for men or a cherished family heirloom, regular care will keep your platinum looking its best.