Palladium rings are quite unusual and rare but are becoming more popular due to them being easier to work than platinum which is a much harder metal.

Palladium rings are also somewhat cheaper than platinum.

Usually palladium rings are mixed with platinum and silver and palladium rings should have the karat of the palladium demonstrated. 14karat palladium will also contain silver and platinum and even other metals to increase hardness and stability.

Palladium rings are shiny, as is platinum, and it is often hard to distinguish between the two. Palladium will scratch more easily however so one needs to be a bit more careful in the handling of them.

A jeweler can test palladium just as he tests gold or platinum. The test for palladium is similar although it reacts slower. Nitric acid and aqua regia and test needles of a known karat for comparative purposes are used to establish the karat of the piece.

When buying a palladium ring do ensure that it comes with a guarantee of authenticity. Especially the diamonds or gems it comes with if any should have an independent appraisal to establish the quality and value of the gems.

Palladium rings are unique and a great show piece provided they are looked after and maintained. Therefore one should keep them clean. Washing in warm soapy water and rinsing them well on a regular basis is a good idea. Drying them thoroughly and storing them away from diamonds and other hard gems is important so they do not get scratched.

Keeping in mind the above points will ensure you get and keep a palladium ring and enjoy it for many years to come!

This entry was posted on Sunday, November 12th, 2006 at 2:18 pm and is filed under Buying Palladium.