Platinum occupies a unique position in the world of precious metals — rarer than gold, denser than either gold or silver, and with a pure white brilliance that makes it a preferred choice for fine jewelry, particularly engagement rings. Yet many people do not know how to identify it or what it might be worth. At American Gold Buyers, located at 1178 Woodruff Road, Greenville, SC 29607, we purchase platinum jewelry and bullion from customers throughout the Greenville area. Call us at (864) 631-1000.
What Makes Platinum Different
Density
Platinum is the densest of the commonly traded precious metals, weighing approximately 21.45 grams per cubic centimeter. For comparison, gold is about 19.32 g/cc and silver is about 10.49 g/cc. This means a platinum ring will feel noticeably heavier than an identically sized white gold ring — a useful tactile clue when you are trying to identify what you have.
Purity
Platinum jewelry is typically made at much higher purity levels than gold jewelry. Common platinum alloys are 950 (95% platinum), 900 (90% platinum), and 850 (85% platinum). This contrasts sharply with the most common gold jewelry karat of 14K (58.3% gold). The high purity of platinum contributes to its durability and hypoallergenic properties.
Color
Platinum has a naturally white, slightly grey-toned color that does not fade over time. White gold, by comparison, is yellow gold alloyed with white metals and then typically rhodium-plated to appear white — a plating that wears off and must be reapplied. Platinum maintains its appearance without replating.
Hardness and Durability
Platinum is actually softer than 14K gold in terms of scratch resistance, which surprises many people. It is, however, more resistant to breaking and is ductile — it bends rather than fractures. Over time, platinum develops a “patina” from small scratches that many wearers find attractive; in fine jewelry, this is sometimes called a “lived-in” look.
Identifying Platinum Jewelry
Platinum jewelry is typically stamped with one of the following markings:
- PT950 or Pt950: 95% platinum
- PT900 or Pt900: 90% platinum
- PLATINUM or PLAT: Generic platinum marking, typically used on high-purity pieces
- 950, 900, or 850: Fineness marks without the “PT” prefix; common on older pieces
Do not confuse platinum markings with white gold markings. White gold will typically be stamped 14K, 18K, or similar gold karat designations. The two metals look similar but have very different values per gram due to their different market prices and densities.
Platinum’s Market Price
Platinum has historically traded at or above gold prices, but the relationship between the two metals fluctuates with market conditions. At times, platinum trades below gold — a reversal of its historical premium. In any case, platinum is a valuable precious metal, and the price per troy ounce times the platinum content of your jewelry (adjusted for the 950 or 900 purity level) gives you the melt value. Because platinum is denser, a platinum ring contains more metal by weight than an identically sized gold ring, which affects the calculation.
We Buy Platinum in Greenville
Whether you have a platinum engagement ring, a platinum bracelet, or a collection of platinum items from an estate, American Gold Buyers will evaluate and purchase them. We test every item to confirm platinum content, weigh it precisely, and offer payment based on current market prices. We pay cash or check to sellers. There is no appointment required.
We also sell platinum bullion coins (such as the American Platinum Eagle) for buyers. Buyers may pay with cash, credit, or crypto.
Customers from Simpsonville, Mauldin, Greer, Easley, and throughout Greenville County are welcome. Visit us at 1178 Woodruff Road, Greenville, SC 29607, or call (864) 631-1000.