Pure platinum, with its lustrous sheen and enduring quality, is a coveted metal in the world of fine jewelry. Whether you're a collector, an enthusiast, or simply curious about the authenticity of your platinum piece, understanding how to check its purity is essential.
This article guides you through various methods to determine the purity of platinum, ensuring that your precious metal is as genuine as it is beautiful.
Check the hallmark
The most straightforward method to carry out a platinum purity test is by checking its hallmark. A hallmark is a stamp or marking on the metal indicating its purity. Platinum items often bear marks such as “950” or “999,” denoting their level of purity.
To understand more about these platinum purity marks, explore the intricacies of what 999 platinum really is.
However, if your piece is antique, vintage, or purchased outside the UK, it may not have these hallmarks. In such cases, other testing methods can be employed.
The visual test
Start by examining the visual characteristics of your platinum piece. Pure platinum is dense and weighty with a bright white-silver reflective surface, distinct from other metals like silver.
Compare your item with other jewelry pieces of known metals to spot differences. For a deeper understanding of these visual distinctions, see how to tell the difference between platinum and silver.
The magnet test
Platinum is not magnetic, so using a magnet can be a quick way to test its authenticity. Simply bring a strong magnet close to your platinum piece. If there is no attraction, it's a good sign that your item may be genuine platinum.
However, remember that this test is not conclusive, as other non-magnetic metals can exhibit similar behavior.
Testing with acid
For a more definitive test, consider using an acid test kit available from some jewelers. These kits allow you to perform a scratch test to check for purity. Be aware that this method requires making a small scratch on your piece and involves handling acids, so caution is advised.
If you're unsure about the metal type, acid test kits for different metals can help identify what your piece is made of.
Can you use vinegar to test platinum?
While some believe vinegar can test for platinum, it's an unreliable method. Vinegar is a weak acid and won't react with several metals similar to platinum. For accurate identification, specific acids are necessary.
The ice test
An interesting way to test for genuine platinum is the ice test. Platinum’s high thermal conductivity means it melts ice quickly.
This test is quick and simple. Place a small ice cube on your platinum piece and observe how rapidly it melts compared to a non-platinum item. A quicker melt indicates a higher likelihood of genuine platinum.
Be mindful, however, that platinum is far from having the highest thermal conductivity of any metal. Repeat this test with aluminum to see your ice cube disappear in a flash.
Testing with hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide, which you can get from most pharmacies, can also be used to test platinum. Using hydrogen peroxide to test for platinum is a simple process, but it requires caution:
- Safety precautions: Wear gloves to protect your hands and use a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide (3% is typical).
- Application: Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to a discreet area of the item.
- Observation: Watch for any reaction. Platinum typically does not react visibly to hydrogen peroxide.
- Rinse off: After testing, rinse the item thoroughly with water.
Contact a jeweler for a professional appraisal
If your platinum piece isn’t hallmarked, determining its exact purity level at home can be challenging. In such cases, a professional appraisal by a jeweler is recommended. They can use specialized equipment to accurately assess the purity of your platinum.
Shop pure platinum jewelry at 7879
To ensure the authenticity and purity of your platinum jewelry, consider purchasing from a reputable jeweler like 7879. All our platinum jewelry is of 999 purity, hallmarked by the UK Assay Office, and comes with a unique authenticity certificate.
From elegant platinum rings to sophisticated necklace chains, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and cuffs, our collection embodies purity and luxury, ensuring you invest in pieces that are as genuine as they are exquisite.