Platinum rings are more expensive than their gold counterparts. Platinum rings are made with between 90 percent and 95 percent pure platinum--in contrast with 18K gold rings, which are made with only 75 percent gold. If you've had to replace your car's catalytic converter and were surprised at the cost of doing so, it's because the catalytic converter contains platinum--a pricey precious metal. Add to this the cost of fashioning platinum into a ring and the value of a beautiful design, and you might see why their prices exceed that of comparable pieces in gold.

One of the advantages of platinum rings, however, is that they do not require much maintenance. Platinum rings do not tarnish or wear away. Since platinum is the strongest of the precious metals, it will also resist damage more than other metals. The downside to this, however, is that platinum is more difficult to polish and repair, should that be necessary.

Platinum may look a little bit like white gold, but the two are not the same. During WWII, the U.S. government prohibited the use of platinum in all applications that were not military-related. White gold was and is still used as a substitute for platinum because of consumers' strong preferences for the silvery appearance. Unlike platinum, white gold is made by combining gold with other metals (such as nickel, silver or palladium) and then coated with Rhodium to achieve a similar appearance.

Platinum Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

Platinum rings are gaining in popularity for engagement and wedding rings. Though 18K gold is still the most common setting for such rings, you can find platinum rings in similar styles from most jewelers. If you do not see the perfect ring at the nearest jeweler, you should consider searching other jewelers or looking online. If you find the perfect ring in gold but know that your bride would prefer it in platinum, rest assured that many jewelers are willing to customize their work--for a small fee, of course.

Rings are often the most meaningful pieces of jewelry in a person's collection. Rings from the high school or college one attended, baby rings from a beloved family member, and of course the engagement and wedding ring are all imbued with a meaning and substance far outweighing the metal and stone of which they are made. In rings, as in so many types of jewelry, gold is most popular metal--though platinum, titanium and silver all have their fans.

As with all jewelry, the style of the person who wears the ring should be the primary determinant of how it looks. A simple band of gold or a two-tone mix of yellow and white gold is perfect for a person with classic taste, while bolder or more contemporary tastes can demand larger, fancier designs with gemstones or more dimension. A ring with the wearer's initials can make a statement, and the gift of a ring with the giver's name or initials on it can carry special weight.

Wedding Bands in Gold--A Match Made in Heaven

The choice of wedding bands is one a couple will ideally make together. After all, the bands will last throughout the entirety of their marriage. Nobody wants to trade in a wedding ring for a new model after a few years, so couples should take care to choose a ring that matches their style and taste and seems likely to be one they will be comfortable with for years to come. Wedding rings are not the place to get trendy! Yellow gold has been a traditional favorite of newlyweds for as long as rings have been exchanged at weddings. White gold is a more modern twist on the time-honored tradition of gold rings.

An even newer and fresher wedding band is a two-toned mixture of white and yellow gold. The two look wonderful together, as the soft and mellow color of the yellow and the brilliant shine of the white meld together to form a perfect contrast. Such unity can serve to symbolize the coming together of the couple themselves, with the fundamental differences and similarities they bring together in harmony.

A mother's bracelet is a personalized silver bracelet that celebrates the most important woman in your life, your mom. It's also a great way to let the people in your life know you care. It's the perfect gift for many occasions from birthdays to anniversaries to baby showers.

Beautiful Keepsakes

Mother's bracelets top the list of gifts for mom. She's received everything from candy to flowers to breakfast in bed, but why not give her a gift that lasts a lifetime? A bracelet with your name on it is a Mother's Day present she'll never forget. It's a beautiful reminder of the bond between mother and child. They're great for all women, from mothers of adult children, to new mothers, to grandmothers.

You've seen the beaded identity bracelets they put on babies in the hospital. Well, mother's bracelets are an adult version. Traditionally, they are sterling silver bracelets that feature the letters of a child's name. They typically feature up to four strands for additional names. You can dress them up with pearls, birthstones and other gems, or you can keep them simple. Either way, they make a great gift for Mother's Day.

Bragging Rights

As we all know, mothers love to talk about their children. A piece of jewelry with your child's name on it is an instant conversation starter. Other women can't help but notice when you're wearing such a piece. Not only does a mother take pride in talking about her children, but also the woman who wears a mother's bracelet takes pride in the gift itself. It's a constant reminder that she is special to her family and friends.

Not Just for Mother's Day

While these identity bracelets make perfect gifts for Mother's Day, they're also great for birthdays, anniversaries, and other major life events. Because they are personalized, you can wear the name of just about anyone around your wrist. From your children to your friends, to loved ones, and even man's best friend, personalized jewelry is a source of inspiration to its wearer.