Our Metals & Materials Philosophy
Material choice at Dunn & Co. is never incidental. We work exclusively in platinum and 18 karat yellow gold, selected for longevity, structural integrity, and suitability for hand fabrication. All precious metals used in our work are 100 percent recycled and refined to the highest industry standards.
Platinum
Platinum is considered the noblest of precious metals and is exceptionally rare—approximately thirty times rarer than gold. Naturally white and inherently pure, platinum requires no surface plating to maintain its color, unlike white gold. Its density and strength provide unmatched security for precious center stones; nothing holds a diamond more reliably over time than platinum.
At Dunn & Co., platinum is our primary metal for fine and bespoke jewelry. We work exclusively in 950 platinum alloyed with ruthenium, a formulation selected specifically for hand fabrication. This alloy allows for precise forging, clean structural lines, and exceptional long-term durability. Under normal wear, platinum displaces rather than wears away, developing a soft, elegant patina while preserving its mass, integrity, and structural strength. The result is a metal that not only looks beautiful, but feels substantial, enduring, and deeply suited to heirloom jewelry.
18 Karat Yellow Gold
We also work in 18 karat yellow gold, an alloy prized for its warmth, stability, and longevity. At 75 percent pure gold, it provides an ideal balance between beauty and durability for daily wear.
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All gold used in our work is 100 percent recycled, refined to meet strict purity and performance standards. Properly alloyed yellow gold resists corrosion and ages gracefully, maintaining depth of color and structural strength over time.
Why We Do Not Use
White Gold
White gold achieves its appearance through alloying and surface plating rather than inherent material properties. Over time, this plating wears away and requires repeated refinishing.
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For clients who value longevity, material integrity, and comfort, platinum offers a more enduring and stable alternative. Additionally, some white gold alloys contain nickel, which may cause skin sensitivities for certain individuals.
Ethical & Responsible Materials
We use only 100 percent recycled precious metals, reducing reliance on new mining while maintaining uncompromising quality. Our materials are sourced through suppliers who prioritize transparency, ethical labor practices, and environmental responsibility.
Material Value & Longevity
Gold and platinum are globally traded commodities whose values fluctuate over time. Our approach is guided not by short-term pricing trends, but by material suitability, longevity, and performance. Jewelry should be built to endure, not optimized for the moment.