Then wash the ring as mentioned above. Platinum rings are less likely to scratch because they're extremely durable. Any metal can scratch and will scratch. Platinum is an expensive metal, so you will want to preserve as … Privacy Policy When filing a curved surface, follow the curvature and try not to create flat spots on the product. Repeat this operation with the next finer polishing compound, using an untreated stitched muslin buff-, this should give a highly reflective surface and a lustrous finish. Using Cleanser on Platinum Purchase a cleansing solution for platinum or fine jewelry. When polishing, you are actually removing metal, and some of that metal will adhere to the felts, buffs, and brushes. When cleaning your ring, you will have to take some precautions as the cleaning method should be safe for both platinum and the diamond. Platinum takes more effort to polish, for the simple reason that it does not wear as other precious metals do; consequently, it doesn’t follow the same metallurgical rules. If the ring has a hard layer of compacted dirt and grime, which you find difficult to remove with soap and water, you may need to take it to a jeweler to have it professionally cleaned. It seems that the consumer equates durability with scratch resistance and is then disappointed when Platinum jewelry scratches and show signs of wear. Now look at the outside of the ring. Our surface hardness diagram above shows this. Mass tumbling saves time and produces an adequate shine on platinum chain, beads, or other items without sharp edges. If you are choosing a commercial jewelry cleaner, select one that does not have harmful chemicals and will gently clean your ring. First, attack the platinum surface by tumbling the pieces. I can't imagine anyone other than me looking closely at it though. That’s particularly true when you’re joining platinum with karat gold: Since karat gold polishes more quickly than platinum, you run the risk of over polishing the gold if you leave all the finishing work until the end. Next, switch to a soap-based compound and a ceramic media with a finer grit. It is possible to remove scratches from a plastic screen, provided they are not too deep. Orchid Community While it takes a few minutes, burnishing will actually save time in the long run: It will compact minor porosity, eliminate soft areas, and add shine. Apply light pressure as you work around the ring. After checking and verifying that the ring size is correct, start sanding the inside of the shank. The burnishing process can be done either by hand or in a tumbler with polished beads. “More than other publications, MJSA Journal is oriented toward people like me: those trying to earn a living by designing and making jewelry,” says Jim Binnion of James Binnion Metal Arts. (The melting point for platinum and platinum group metals ranges from 3,214°F to 4,429°F, depending on the alloy, cormpared to 1,948°F for fine gold and 1,762°F for fine silver.) Here we outline our top tips on how to clean your platinum diamond ring. After applying make-up, body lotions or sprays, give your ring a wipe to get rid of any oily residue. Check Out Our Top Jewelry Cleaning Cloth Pick. Clean your ring weekly. Platinum mountings are very hard and generally hold the diamond securely. Now switch to a #6cut file and repeat the process. (Magnetic tumblers also offer good results, especially for polishing such hard-to-reach areas as the insides of rings.) My engagement ring is Palladium (a platinum-group metal which is not plantinum) and is dinged up plenty when you look closely at it. Anything can be scratched by another object that is harder, including tungsten carbide. To accomplish this, you’ll want to select a larger diameter buff. Use a rotary polishing tool with a cotton buff, if you have one. One of the most frequently asked questions about Platinum concerns scratching. Platinum is a silver-colored precious metal. Some people desire this patina as it gives the ring depth and character.   |   Since platinum does not oxidize or tarnish, these extra finishes will not harm the ring, instead presenting a nice texture to contrast with the meticulously polished areas. Platinum, you see, has a “liquid” surface. From a foot away it looks perfect. Take your ring to a jeweler at least once a year to check that the setting is secure and that there is no danger of the diamond falling out. Titanium rings come in a number of finishes including matt, polished, sable, satin, frost and sandblast. Scratches on platinum may show up as dents, but the damage can be buffed away in the hands of a qualified jewelry repair firm. Next, the Platinum ring is polished. 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