Bridal Jewelry Spotlight: Platinum Lets Couples Tie the Knot with Elegance and Style

Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson, and Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale are just two of the many celebrity couples who have recently wed in the world's most precious metal - platinum. "Platinum is like our relationship in that it is strong, precious and timeless," Lachey says. "Other trends will come and go, but platinum will always be the standard."

Because of its purity, platinum - found in only a handful of places around the world - doesn't fade or tarnish. It remains what it has always been: a symbol for all things eternal. Platinum's rich, white luster allows it to reflect the radiance of diamonds and gemstones. These qualities make it an ideal choice for engagement and wedding rings, commitment ceremonies, vow renewals and milestone anniversaries - any occasion to celebrate true love.

"The word platinum evokes elegance, purity and romance," says jewelry designer Neil Lane, who designed Kate Hudson and Reese Witherspoon's platinum wedding rings. "It's the greatest complement to a special day."

Other style-savvy celebrities who have helped establish platinum wedding rings as a major trend include Russell Crowe and Danielle Spencer, and Adam Sandler and Jackie Titone.

Rocker Melissa Etheridge and Tammy Lynn Michaels exchanged platinum commitment rings designed by Rafinity, and singer Marc Anthony and his wife Dayanara Muniz said "I do" again in platinum.

"White Hot" Platinum Trends

This year's trends in bridal jewelry are definitely bold and colorful, as colored gemstones continue to gain popularity. Think platinum rings with large white or fancy-colored diamonds. For example, the latest engagement rings from Beaudry feature fancy yellow and pink diamonds, while John Buechner's bands incorporate cognac diamonds and multicolored sapphires.

Several of the hottest ring styles reflect the individuality of today's brides, from sleek and modern, to vintage-inspired and handcarved. Like Lachey and Simpson, an increasing number of couples are even working directly with jewelers to create one-of-a-kind, personalized pieces. "Jessica and I designed our rings together with the help of Harvey Carl, a designer in Los Angeles," says Lachey.

Romantic details and embellishments, including inset filigree, weaving and engraving of initials or wedding dates by designers like Martin Katz, Neil Lane and Jack Kelége are also in the spotlight this year.

More contemporary styles include tension set platinum bands from Steven Kretchmer in which the stone appears to be floating, as well as platinum stackables with a variety of pavé fancy-colored diamonds. The three stone engagement ring has officially become a classic among new brides, as showcased in collections by A. Jaffe and Kwiat. The six prong and bezel setting from Martin Flyer also remains a favorite.

"Something old" becomes "something new" as today's brides take the traditional idea to a new level, perhaps using a stone from their grandmother's wedding ring and resetting it in platinum to fit their individual style. Finishes like high-shined mixed with brushed or hammered platinum complete the cutting-edge look.

Chunky platinum rings with classic designs in matte and alternative finishes from designers like Tacori continue to be popular among men, as are combinations such as rubber and platinum designs from Chris Correia. Channel set or pavé with diamonds, sapphires and rubies are also popular among stylish grooms.

Precious Accessories

Beyond engagement and wedding rings, platinum necklaces, cufflinks, earrings, pendants, bracelets, tiaras, barrettes, combs and hairpins for the bride and bridal party designed by Martin Katz and Neil Lane are at the forefront of style this year. New designs run the gamut from platinum hearts, initials and religious symbols, to nature-inspired, art-deco and antique-inspired jewelry. Also hot this season are chandelier earrings with pearls or colored gemstones set in platinum. Grooms are selecting brushed or shiny platinum cufflinks mixed with diamonds or engraved with their initials.