Have you encountered Platinaire® jewelry yet? Do you know what it is? Here’s the 411 on Platinaire®. It is a patented alloy consisting of 92.5% silver, 5% platinum and 2.5% undisclosed elements (the patented part). What does that mean to you? Simply put, more precious metals items to keep an eye out for.
In September 2010, the A.G. Weindling LLC company announced they will be selling diamond jewelry set in Platinaire®. Therefore, you won’t find their logo (maker’s mark) indicating Platinaire® before that date.
While the silver and platinum alloy has been used in high quality flutes for concert musicians, it is increasing in demand for jewelry. Why would the demand for this jewelry be increasing? Because gold and platinum spot prices are high and jewelry pieces made from them are not easily affordable in these economic times. The A.G. Weindling LLC company is providing an affordable alternative to gold and platinum jewelry. This alloy makes the jewelry stronger than just using silver alone, so it is being used in pieces meant to last a lifetime, such as engagement and wedding rings.
However, the company isn’t limiting themselves to engagement and wedding rings. They are using Platinaire® to make bracelets, earrings, necklaces, pendants and rings. Their jewelry focuses on setting diamonds in Platinaire®, so it is an affordable alternative during rough economic times. Be careful not to pay a huge price, as if the item is pure platinum. Remember, it is mainly sterling silver with a tiny bit of platinum added for strength.
Keep in mind, these items are different than the platinum plating found on top of sterling silver to prevent tarnishing. Rather than just a light coat of platinum on top of the silver, the silver, platinum, and other elements are mixed (melted) together to form a stronger metal (alloy). This is the difference between Platinaire® and rhodium plating over sterling silver.
How do you recognize if the piece is Platinaire®? You might see the word Platinaire®, the company’s logo (maker’s mark), and/or 925 1/20 plat. I have personally seen a ring with the 925 1/20 plat mark on the inside of the band, but I wouldn’t rule out the other two possible marks either. You can check out the company’s logo on their website, in the upper left corner (www.platinaire.com).
If you own a piece of Platinaire®, please send us an email to confirm what marks are on your item.
Good Luck and Happy Hunting,
~Vicki Priebe
Author of “Cheap Gold and Silver”