Platinum Chain Styles
Platinum chains are the pinnacle of precious metal jewelry, offering a naturally white luster that never fades or requires replating. Cable chains in platinum have a cool, bright sheen that's distinctly different from white gold—brighter and with a subtle depth that only platinum achieves. Rope chains gain an extra dimension in platinum; the twisted links reflect light with a silvery brilliance that's both refined and substantial. Box chains deliver clean, geometric lines with a satisfying heft—platinum is denser than gold, so even a slim box chain feels weighty and luxurious on the neck. Figaro chains bring their signature alternating-link rhythm to platinum's prestigious canvas. Curb and Cuban link chains in platinum are statement pieces with serious presence—the dense metal gives them a substantial feel and a mirror-bright finish. For a more understated look, wheat and spiga chains offer textured elegance that works beautifully with pendants or worn alone.
Why Choose Platinum Over White Gold
Platinum and white gold look similar at first glance, but there are important differences. Platinum is naturally white—its color comes from the metal itself, not from plating. White gold is actually yellow gold alloyed with white metals and then coated with rhodium to achieve its bright white appearance. That rhodium plating wears off over time, requiring periodic re-plating to maintain the white finish. Platinum never needs re-plating because it's white all the way through, for life. Platinum is also denser and heavier, which gives chains a more substantial feel. It's the most durable precious metal for jewelry—when platinum scratches, the metal displaces rather than wearing away, so you don't lose material over time. Platinum is hypoallergenic and 95% pure (compared to 58.3% for 14K gold), making it the safest choice for sensitive skin. The trade-off is price: platinum costs more than gold due to its rarity and density.
Platinum Chain Lengths and Weights
Platinum chains follow the same standard lengths as gold chains—16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 inches—but they feel noticeably different because of platinum's higher density. A platinum chain of the same dimensions as a gold chain will weigh approximately 60% more. This extra weight is part of platinum's appeal: even delicate chains have a satisfying heft that you can feel against your skin. For women, 18 inches is the most popular length, sitting just below the collarbone. For men, 20 to 24 inches is standard. When selecting a width, keep the weight factor in mind—a 3mm platinum chain will feel heavier than a 3mm gold chain of the same length. For pendant carriers, platinum chains are excellent because their strength-to-weight ratio means they can support heavy pendants without stretching. The most popular widths range from 1.5mm for delicate everyday wear to 4mm+ for bold statement pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is platinum better than white gold for chains?
Platinum has several objective advantages over white gold for chains. It's naturally white and never needs rhodium re-plating, while white gold requires re-plating every one to three years. Platinum is more durable—it doesn't lose metal when scratched, it just displaces, so the chain maintains its mass over decades. It's 95% pure versus 58.3% for 14K white gold, making it more hypoallergenic. And platinum is denser, giving chains a more substantial, luxurious feel. The main advantage of white gold is price—it's significantly less expensive than platinum. If budget isn't the primary concern, platinum is the superior choice for a chain you plan to wear for years or a lifetime.
Why are platinum chains more expensive than gold?
Three factors drive platinum's higher price. First, platinum is roughly 30 times rarer than gold in the earth's crust, so the raw material costs more. Second, platinum is denser than gold—a platinum chain weighs about 60% more than an identical gold chain, meaning more precious metal per piece. Third, platinum has a higher melting point and is more difficult to work with, requiring specialized tools and techniques that increase manufacturing costs. When you buy a platinum chain, you're getting a denser, rarer, purer metal with superior durability and a naturally white color that lasts forever. Many customers view the premium as a worthwhile investment for a piece they'll wear every day.
Does platinum scratch easily?
Platinum does develop surface scratches with wear, just like any metal. However, there's an important difference: when gold scratches, tiny particles of metal are removed and lost. When platinum scratches, the metal is displaced—pushed to the side rather than removed. This means your platinum chain retains its original mass over time, even as it develops a natural patina. Many platinum owners come to love this patina, which gives the metal a soft, satin-like sheen that's considered a mark of authenticity. If you prefer the original high-polish look, a jeweler can polish your platinum chain back to mirror brightness anytime. The metal is all still there.
Can I wear a platinum chain every day?
Platinum is arguably the best metal for everyday chain wear. It's the most durable precious metal available—it resists stretching and breakage better than gold, it doesn't tarnish, it doesn't need re-plating, and it's hypoallergenic. Many of our platinum chain customers wear theirs 24/7 and the chains hold up beautifully year after year. The same care guidelines apply as with gold: remove it before swimming in chlorinated pools, avoid contact with harsh chemicals, and take it off for very heavy physical activities. But for normal daily life—work, errands, dining, socializing—a platinum chain is built to handle it all without any special precautions.
How do I clean a platinum chain?
Soak the chain in warm water with a drop of mild dish soap for 10 to 15 minutes. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently scrub the links, paying attention to the clasp area and any tight spots where oils and debris accumulate. Rinse under clean running water and pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Platinum is tougher than gold, so it handles cleaning well without risk of damage. For restoring a high polish to a chain that's developed a patina, bring it to a jeweler for professional buffing. Avoid using silver polishing cloths or compounds, as these are formulated differently and aren't necessary for platinum. Simple soap and water is all you need for regular at-home maintenance.