Pretty much all metals eventually rust over time. However, this isn’t true of precious metals, including platinum, which has a characteristic silvery hue. The reason is because precious metals don’t have any iron and therefore cannot rust. Platinum and gold are also not known for being highly corrosive. However, they’re susceptible to tarnishing. Overall, platinum isn’t going to discolor very much over time. The precious metals experts from First National Bullion, the platinum, silver, and gold dealers San Diego collectors rely on for outstanding quality and service, explain what you need to know about keeping this particular precious metal looking great.

Keep It Away from Water

Tarnishing is more likely to happen if the platinum pieces you possess are exposed to water in some way. This might include wearing a necklace or bracelet in the rain. Realistically, doing this now and then isn’t going to affect your precious pieces all that much. Further minimize your platinum’s exposure to moisture by:

• Taking any platinum bracelets or rings off when doing the dishes
• Removing platinum jewelry if you’re doing any type of work that may involve exposure to various viscous fluids
• Not storing your platinum pieces in places that are damp, such as a basement or bathroom

Know What to Do if You Notice Platinum Discoloration

If you notice some discoloration on your platinum pieces, there are a few things you can do to keep your precious metals looking good. The first thing to do is inspect your various pieces now and then to determine if there are any issues that warrant attention.

If you spot anything that requires some attention, you may be able to restore the affected pieces yourself with an over-the-counter rust remover. Just make sure to read the directions first so you don’t damage your pieces. A good way to achieve this goal is to do a spot test first. This is when you take a hidden part of the piece and dip it in the solution. Look to see if there’s any noticeable discoloration. If there is, stop and take the piece to a jeweler to determine if efforts can be made to save it. Generally, the answer is yes.

If the tarnishing is more severe, take the piece to a jeweler first. This way, the piece can be fully evaluated and addressed. Professional jewelers know how to deal with such problems in a less disruptive and safer way. These methods usually involve using professional-grade solutions or specialized techniques to safely restore the piece.

Treat Yourself to a Nice New Platinum Item

It’s very rare for a piece to be fully beyond repair or restoration. If a piece does need to be replaced, it’s usually at the point where it is very old anyway. This doesn’t necessarily make it any easier to part with a cherished piece, but you can take comfort in knowing you’ll be getting a nice new replacement of similar quality. The good news is today’s platinum jewelry comes in many price ranges. There are also many design options available, so you can always find something more in line with your current tastes and preferences.

Whether they’re veteran platinum collectors or simply looking to buy gold bars, San Diego residents should reach out to the experts at First National Bullion. We offer a huge selection of gold, platinum, and silver items. San Diego collectors who are looking for the finest-quality coins, bars, and bullion should give us a call at (858) 304-7580 to speak with one of our precious metals experts. 

The statements made in this blog are opinions, and past performance is not indicative of future returns. Precious metals, like all investments, carry risk. Precious metals and coins may appreciate, depreciate, or stay the same in cash value depending on a variety of factors. First National Bullion does not guarantee, and its website and employees make no representation, that any metals for sale will appreciate sufficiently to earn the customers a profit. The decision to buy, sell, or borrow precious metals and which precious metals to purchase, borrow, or sell are made at the customer’s sole discretion.