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Platinum,
is obtained as a by-product, along with gold and silver, in
the refining of nickel and copper.
It is grayiush white in appearance, it does not oxidize, can
be caset, forged, and welded. It is very ductile and
malleable with a high melting point of 3224 F.
Iridium can be added to platinum to increase its hardness.
Platinum is a very heavy metal & also expensive.
Test for Platinum
It can be distinguished from palladium and white gold by the
feel of its weight since it is quite heavy when bounced in
one's hand. Platinum after being heated to red heat and
cooled, does not oxidize; palladium and white gold oxidize
and even change color.
Palladium belongs to the platinum family of metals is used
as a substitute for platinum since its a comparatively
cheaper & lighter. Its melting point is 2831 F. It is
used for light platinum jewelry such as earrings.
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