Industrial vs Jewelry Platinum
Two different markets for the same precious metal.
Platinum is divided into two near-watertight markets: industrial platinum (catalysts, chemistry, electronics) and jewelry platinum. Their grades, sectors and prices are linked but distinct.
Industrial Platinum — Auto Catalysis: 40% of world demand. Catalytic converters contain 2–7g of platinum for petrol engines (against palladium for the most recent). Euro 7 anti-pollution standards will maintain residual demand despite the rise of electric vehicles.
Industrial Platinum — Chemistry and Refining: Catalyst in nitric acid synthesis (Haber-Bosch), oil refining, sulfuric acid production. These applications consume ~25 tonnes/year worldwide and are stable.
Jewelry Platinum (Pt999 and Pt950): The jewelry market is dominated by Japan and China (Together representing 65% of world jewelry demand). In Switzerland, platinum is synonymous with high watchmaking — prestige watch cases and platinum bracelets are the most precious in the industry.
Traceability and Recycling: Unlike ordinary industrial metals, platinum is fully recycled at life's end (catalysts, electrodes). Recovery rate exceeds 80%. This mitigates pressure on mining supply and stabilizes long-term prices.