According to FTC guidelines, the term "platinum" may be used without qualification if the fineness is at least

• A. 900
• B. 950
• C. 925
• D. 990

Answer: (B)

FTC labeling rules set a clear threshold for using the word platinum without a fineness qualifier. The fineness tells how much of the metal in the piece is actually platinum. To call a piece simply “platinum” on the label, the metal must be at least 95% platinum, i.e., 950 parts per thousand. The remaining 5% can be other metals added to improve strength and durability.

That’s why 950 is the best answer: it represents the minimum purity required for unqualified use of the term. A fineness of 900 would be only 90% platinum, so it would require a qualifier. 925 is not a standard platinum fineness and is associated with other alloys, while 990 is a higher purity, but the official minimum that permits the unqualified term is 950.