from the Antique Jewelry University
Platinum is a metallic element that does not corrode, it is malleable, ductile and strong. Platinum is used in jewelry and is prized because it does not tarnish. Platinum was known in Colombia and Ecuador prior to the 15th century and was used in jewelry. In the mid 19th century (once methods were developed to be able to fuse it) platinum began to be used in Europe. Platinum is more expensive than gold.