An expansive range of jewellery pieces in non-traditional metals is rising in popularity in the trade as buyers continue to favour fresh design options and new and diverse ways to express their individuality. 

Platinum, for instance, has a strong following among a younger generation of consumers. Platinum Guild International’s latest consumer survey revealed an increased preference for platinum among young women in China, Japan and the US, especially for engagement rings and wedding bands. 

In China specifically, branded platinum jewellery collections are highly sought after as retailers continuously introduce products with innovative technology and contemporary designs.

Other metals such as palladium, rhodium and ruthenium, among other platinum group metals, are also gaining popularity. 

Often described as rarer than platinum, palladium is increasingly finding its way into bridal jewellery collections, thanks to its natural brightness and shine. It is viewed as a new and modern alternative to traditional metals.

Consumers can also choose from a variety of rhodium-plated and ruthenium-plated jewellery pieces. These are jewellery made from a base metal of gold or silver and coated with a thin layer of rhodium or ruthenium for lustre and extra strength.