The History and Value Behind Diamond and Platinum Rings
Share
Jewelry has represented power, wealth, love, and commitment for centuries. In fine jewelry, the combination of diamond and platinum, both strong and beautiful together, is one of the most recognized combinations.
St. John & Myers, focuses on antique and estate pieces that are an affordable expression of beauty, as well as a unique history of their past. Let's look back to see how it all started, how jewellery with diamond and platinum ring evolved, and why they are amazing.
History of Diamonds Through the Ages
Diamonds have often been noted for their distinctive fire and hardness. The earliest diamond engagement ring on record was presented to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximilian of Austria in 1477. This inspired imitation among European peers and established the diamond as the stone of everlasting love.
Diamonds originally were an object that only a few royals could afford. As exploration of diamond deposits increased, mining boomed, and diamonds became more available through global trade. By the nineteenth century, diamonds were available to many royal families. As diamond cutting advanced, diamonds became a prized, popular alternative for rings.
Diamond ring in platinum was a match made in heaven. Platinum’s brilliant, icy white lustre makes diamonds sparkle even more, with an addition of minimizing the risk of scratching. Platinum’s durability is a great means of securing diamonds; the strength of platinum equals stronger durability and longevity. Together, platinum and diamonds had their heyday in popularity with the height of the Edwardian period preceding the Art Deco period.
The Rise of Platinum in Fine Jewelry
Platinum has been made into jewelry since the time of the ancient Egyptians. However, it was only realized as a potential material for jewelry use in the late nineteenth century, when goldsmiths discovered that platinum was an exceedingly rare and beautiful metal with incredible durability; it is so strong, goldsmiths could make fine detail filigree work using it, without worrying to damage it, and secure settings for gems or other precious stones especially diamonds, that must be set securely.
During the Edwardian period (1901–1910), platinum became associated with elegance, as jewelry trends shifted towards delicate, lace-like jewelry design featuring platinum and diamonds. The Art Deco period (1920s–1930s) replaced the lace-like designs with bold geometric designs, many of which featured the now-classic diamond and platinum ring style.
By World War II, use of platinum in jewelry slowed due to its strategic importance in military applications, giving gold short-lived kudos, until it was replaced by platinum, particularly in engagement and wedding rings, by the late twentieth century.
Why a Diamond Ring in Platinum Holds Lasting Value
When you buy a diamond ring in platinum, you're not just buying jewelry; you are buying a history of craftsmanship, a bit of history and inherent value.
Here's why this combo stands the test of time:
1. Durability and Security
Platinum is one of the most durable metals used in jewelry. It has the density to make it perfect to secure diamonds and other gemstones. Gold will wear away over time, but platinum just displaces when scratched, leaving the setting still valid after years.
2. Timeless Beauty
Platinum's naturally white lustre enhances a diamond's sparkle, even more, making the overall ring sparkle. In comparison to white gold, platinum will never lose its color, nor will it ever need to be replaced in the lifetime of the jewelry.
3. Value and Prestige
Diamonds and platinum are both very rare, and rare things are precious. Platinum is mined much less frequently than gold, and simply stated, there is a far smaller supply of platinum in the world. Having a diamond and platinum ring is generally regarded as a luxury item because of the rarity of the materials.
4. Antique and Estate Value
St. John & Myers specializes in true estate and antique jewelry, where value extends beyond the materials used to create it. Vintage pieces from the Edwardian or Art Deco era can be viewed as a piece of history. Vintage diamond and platinum rings are almost always comprised of hand-crafted details and old-world craftsmanship that cannot be created during mass production today.
What Makes an Antique Diamond and Platinum Ring Unique?
Antique rings have a spirit. Each ring tells a story of the period it was made in, the craftsmanship that went into it, and the people who wore it. When you choose a vintage diamond ring in platinum, you are not just buying a ring, but are preserving a piece of cultural understanding and artistic history.
Look for features such as:
● Old European or Mine Cuts: Even though they may have been cut 100 years ago, they do not have modern cuts, and still have a soft and romantic sparkle.
● Hand Engraving and Filigree: Many popular styles during the Edwardian and Art Deco periods used hand engraving or filigree in their designs.
● Maker’s Marks and Hallmarks: While these can tell you more about the origin, age and authenticity of a piece, they should not be underestimated.
Final Thoughts
The provenance and value behind diamond and platinum ring are as deep and bright as the gemstones themselves. Before we find your perfect piece, let's understand all that is involved with these iconic styles of jewelry. There are minimal styles of jewelry that combine skill, strength, and meaning like the diamond ring in platinum, whether an Edwardian legacy or an Art Deco statement, a diamond ring in platinum is unique, momentous and luxurious choice.
View our selection of antique and estate rings at St. John & Myers and discover the exceptional craftsmanship, beauty and history that the rings hold.