Part of platinum's appeal lies in the fact that it dulls very little over time and never tarnishes. Platinum is a hypo-allergenic metal that will not irritate the skin. Most platinum jewelry is 95 percent pure platinum, and 5 percent iridium or palladium alloy. For guaranteed quality in platinum, look for the marks 900Pt, 950 Plat, or Plat.

Soaking platinum in a mild solution of soap and warm water and gently scrubbing it with a soft-bristled brush is usually all that is required to maintain the metal's luster.