Celebrate your union forever with platinum
What do all of these celebrity couples have in common? Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale. Julia Roberts and Danny Moder. Russell Crowe and Danielle Spencer.
They were all wed in platinum, which continues to be the metal of choice for engagement and wedding bands this year. Men favor this precious metal for its weight and durability, while the ladies adore platinum for its natural white luster, which enhances the sparkle of diamonds and gemstones.
The proof is in the numbers. According to a 2002 Modern Bride survey, 44 percent of brides acquired a platinum engagement ring. Why is platinum so popular?
"The word platinum evokes elegance, purity and romance - and it's eternal. It's the greatest complement to a special day," says jewelry designer Neil Lane, whose fans include "It" couples Kate Hudson and Chris Robinson, and Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany.
"The bigger, the better" is the name of the bridal jewelry game this year. Think platinum rings with large white or fancy colored diamonds. For example, the latest must-have engagement rings from Michael Beaudry feature fancy yellow and pink diamonds, while Jeff Cooper's bands incorporate white or black diamonds.
Ring styles range from sleek and modern, to vintage-inspired and hand-carved. Romantic details and embellishments, including inset filigree and engraving by artists like Jack Kelege, are all the rage.
"Since platinum is more malleable, designers can create more intricate, unique pieces," says Paul Tacorian, a designer for Tacori.
Contemporary styles include tension-set platinum bands in which the stone appears to be floating, as well as platinum stackables with a variety of pavé fancy-colored diamonds. Traditionalists take the idea of "something old, something new" to a whole new level, perhaps using a stone from their grandmother's wedding ring and resetting it in platinum to fit their individual style. High-shined finishes mixed with brushed or hammered platinum complete the cutting-edge look.
Platinum isn't just for wedding rings and bands - you can accessorize with it, too. New designs run the gamut from platinum hearts and religious symbols to nature-inspired, art deco and antique-inspired designs.
Today's top jewelry designers are turning out beautiful platinum necklaces (Tiffany & Co. and Kwiat), cufflinks (Chris Correia and Kurt Wayne), earrings (Gumuchian Fils and Erica Courtney), pendants and bracelets (Varna and Martin Flyer), watches (Delaneau), tiaras (Martin Katz) and barrettes, combs and hairpins (Ricardo Basta Eichberg).
For more information on platinum bridal jewelry trends, or to order a buyer's guide or find a platinum jewelry retailer in your area, visit www.preciousplatinum.com.
