This article provides a comprehensive introduction to what platinum (鉑金/白金) is, clearing up the common misconceptions surrounding platinum and white gold. It not only delves into the core advantages of platinum jewellery, but also contrasts its essential differences with white gold, as well as their resale value and durability, so you can choose wisely and avoid mistakes.

A common confusion in Hong Kong’s jewellery market stems from similar-sounding names. In fact, the relationship between the two can be summed up clearly:

• Platinum (鉑金 / 白金，Pt): 鉑金 is the formal name in Chinese, while “白金” is its common local term — both refer to the same metal. A pure natural precious metal, it is 30 times rarer than gold, with high density, twice the hardness of gold, and a naturally white, stable finish.
• White Gold (白 K 金): White gold is an alloy with yellow gold as its base, mixed with white metals like palladium or nickel. Its misleading “white” label often leads to confusion with platinum. It is plated white and may yellow over time. Not platinum.

To sum up:

• Platinum = 铂金 = 白金: Pure precious metal, never fades
• White Gold = 白 K 金: Gold alloy, may fade over time

Under Hong Kong law, compliant platinum jewellery must be engraved with purity hallmarks recognised by law (international stamps). If the pure platinum content of a product is less than 850 parts per thousand by weight, it cannot legally be described as platinum or white gold. The following are the four mainstream hallmarks in the market — recognise them and you can easily distinguish genuine from fake:

Pure platinum is twice as hard as pure gold. Due to its high density, platinum bracelets have a solid, substantial feel when worn. It also has excellent toughness and ductility, not easily broken by physical impact, and can securely hold precious stones such as diamonds, greatly reducing the risk of stones becoming loose or falling out.

Unlike affordable jewellery or low‑karat gold that may contain allergenic metals such as nickel or copper, mainstream Pt950 platinum has a purity of 95%, with almost no impurities. Its extreme purity and hypoallergenicity make it safe for daily wear — the core reason many couples specify platinum rings as lifelong wedding bands.

Objectively speaking, platinum’s safe‑haven and value‑retention properties are generally weaker than gold. Gold is internationally recognised as a currency substitute, while platinum prices are heavily influenced by industrial demand (e.g. automotive and manufacturing), leading to relatively large fluctuations in the international market.

In addition, the price of new platinum jewellery includes expensive craftsmanship and design fees. However, if resold in the future, buyers will only value it based on the net weight of raw platinum. This means there is a significant depreciation gap between buying and selling, which consumers should be aware of before purchasing.

Two Key Tips for Platinum Resale

• Recognise Legal Hallmarks: Whether at reputable long‑standing jewellers (e.g. Chow Tai Fook) or professional precious metal buyers, staff will first check the Pt stamp inside the jewellery and strictly price according to Hong Kong’s purity standards (e.g. Pt950, Pt900).
• Check Daily Resale Price and Deductions: Before trading, refer to the current platinum resale price. Before weighing, ensure the merchant cleans dirt off the jewellery, confirms the scale is zeroed, and clarifies any melting loss or handling fees in advance.

When platinum jewellery becomes dull and loses shine, use mild household detergent for a deep clean at home:

• Step 1: Prepare lukewarm water (do not use hot water), add 2–3 drops of mild dish soap, stir gently until foamy.
• Step 2: Soak the jewellery for about 10–15 minutes to soften oil. Use a soft baby toothbrush to gently scrub crevices and engravings.
• Step 3: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Remember to place a filter over the sink drain to prevent jewellery from falling in. Finally, pat dry completely with a clean microfiber or soft cloth.

Good storage habits keep your platinum jewellery in top condition:

• Wear Last: Put on jewellery after applying makeup and perfume, to avoid chemical residue.
• Store Separately: After removing jewellery, place it in individual soft pouches or separate jewellery box compartments, to prevent scratching from other metals.

Although platinum never tarnishes and has excellent durability, its surface is still relatively soft compared to other metals used in daily life. With long-term wear, fine scratches can easily appear, along with a build-up of oil and dirt. Here is how to solve these issues:

• Professional polishing: Take jewellery to a jeweller every 1–2 years for refinishing. Polishing removes scratches and restores mirror shine with almost no metal loss.
• Daily at-home cleaning: If the loss of shine is simply due to oil build-up, soak the jewellery in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 10–15 minutes. Then gently scrub the crevices and engravings with a soft-bristled brush. Finally, rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.