The Tradition of Luxury Table Decor

The art of decorating tableware began to flourish in the mid-18th century, when the first European workshops started producing fine, high-end pieces for elegant dining. During the 1800s, skilled makers of fine tableware developed a way to decorate using paints enriched with 24k gold, silver, and platinum — bringing new brilliance to the craft. 

This discovery opened the door to handcrafted designer dinnerware  with exclusive, one-of-a-kind detailing. Leading porcelain houses — especially those in Limoges — began using these precious-metal paints to create truly remarkable pieces that radiate status and refined taste.

Platinum in Table Settings

Platinum accents have been steadily gaining popularity in table settings over the past few years — not just for special occasions, but also for casual lunches, yacht dining, private jets, office setups, and more. As a statement, this metal is more refined. 

Gold might shout for attention, but platinum whispers — elegant, sleek, and just a little distant, in the best way. Platinum details — whether brushed onto flatware or traced along porcelain — bring a smooth, refined feel that’s easy to appreciate with both your eyes and fingertips. 

You’ll often find premium dinnerware combining bright white porcelain with a subtle platinum accent — a look that’s both polished and incredibly flexible. Beyond porcelain, platinum is commonly used in glass accents and is a favorite for refined touches on cutlery. 

Experts say that platinum-coated tableware fits perfectly into today’s idea of sustainable, understated luxury — combining elegance with everyday usability.

The Qualities and Practical Perks of Platinum Accents

Aside from being undeniably beautiful, platinum is also a stunning choice for decorative detailing. It brings a crisper shimmer and a cooler polish compared to silver. Of course, like any material, it has its pros and cons. So, let’s say a few words about its qualities and practical side.

• Durability: Platinum detailing resists fading, scratching, and rust. Every metallic accent — from soft strokes to full coatings — enhances not just the look, but also the life of your tableware.
• Usability:  For all its luxury, platinum is food-safe — it won’t affect taste or interact with ingredients. Thanks to its total neutrality, platinum is an ideal metal for culinary use. It doesn’t interact with the food, so every flavor stays pure and honest. Platinum-trimmed tableware feels luxurious, but it’s also practical — strong enough for frequent use, yet beautiful enough for holiday feasts and formal gatherings.
• Maintenance: These pieces are delicate and deserve gentle treatment. It’s probably the only real downside to such beauty. Every platinum dinnerware set comes with a “Hand wash only” label. Without a doubt, items with this kind of finish should be washed by hand — the dishwasher is too harsh. High-pressure water and aggressive cleaning agents can strip off the thin metal detailing and harm the fragile glaze underneath. Choose soft, natural sponges and mild dish soap — preferably eco-friendly and free of harsh chemicals. Don’t use the microwave for anything with metallic trim. To care for your platinum-accented flatware, simply give it a light polish now and then with a soft fabric.

A Stylish Comeback: Crafting a Timeless Tablescape with Platinum

It might look like a breeze, but designing a perfect platinum tablescape takes more intention than you'd expect.

The first and most important rule is balance. It’s all about finding the right mix of shapes, shine, textures, and style.

So, here are the key “ingredients” for a perfect tablescape.

Begin With Color

Platinum is a refined neutral, but it prefers subtle surroundings — bold colors can easily clash with its calm sophistication. This soft metallic tone shines best on light backdrops — think ivory, warm white, or pale gray — where it highlights the purity of the setting. But if you want contrast, platinum also holds its own next to rich colors like midnight blue, emerald, or charcoal gray. So when setting the table, be mindful of your fabric choices — from the tablecloth to the napkins. 

Pairing different textures, like airy linen and natural cotton, can soften the metallic accents and make everything feel more inviting. Add a finishing touch with silver or platinum candle holders, mirrored serving bowls, or elegant glassware — crystal glasses with a fine platinum rim work beautifully here. 

By the way, if you’re adding flowers to the table, make sure they harmonize with the metal accents. Stylists say that cool platinum tones really pop when paired with bold, natural textures like leather or marble. Try using them in placements or eye-catching center accents.

How to Select the Perfect Dinnerware Set

Dinnerware is the star of the whole setting. You’ll want to choose a set that truly fits your vision and needs. Make sure your dinnerware speaks the same design language as your space — classic, deco, modern, Nordic, or minimal. And beyond style, think function: you want a collection that supports your cooking and elevates every plate you serve.

So, which porcelain brands and collections should be on your radar?

• Start with Bernardaud — a house known for its elegant platinum designs. Collections like Silva, Twist Platinum, Cristal, Dune Platine, and Écume Platinum are all excellent choices.
• Limoges-based Haviland is loved for its artistic porcelain and luxurious finishes. If you’re drawn to precious metal accents, consider Infini Platinum and Clair de Lune.
• The refined Tundra Platinum and Hémisphère Platinum collections by J.L Coquet, crafted from biscuit porcelain, also make a truly striking impression.
• Raynaud, a French porcelain house, presents beautiful platinum-trimmed lines like Minéral, Monceau Platinum, Salamanque, and Fontainebleau Platine.
• Italian label Richard Ginori 1735 is equally refined, with standout pieces like Corona Platino featuring delicate platinum rims.

Finishing Touches

When platinum is already in play, less is more. Complement your dinnerware with clear crystal glassware and refined cutlery — silver or stainless steel works beautifully here.

• Ercuis, a French manufacturer, is well-known for refined silver and silver-plated cutlery and table décor. Look out for standout collections like Transat, Sequoia, Sully, Bali, and Équilibre.
• Robbe & Berking, a master of German silverwork, offers handmade collections like Martelé, Riva, Alta, Metropolitan, and Spaten. Whether you prefer sterling silver or a silver-plated option, there's a perfect match for every type of gathering.
• Gourmet Settings offers the elegant Exotique Platinum line — a blend of rustic charm and refined style, crafted from 18/10 stainless steel with a matte finish and platinum accents.

When it comes to glassware, the brand isn’t as important as the craftsmanship — what matters most is fine, handmade crystal.

• One standout option is Ovid from Villeroy & Boch, featuring a subtle platinum rim that adds just the right touch of celebration.
• The house of Eisch features the Gentleman line — stylish whiskey tumblers with platinum detailing, where contemporary design meets top-tier quality.

A Few Last Words

Platinum always brings a touch of elegance and makes any table look extraordinary. But you don’t have to wait for a big event — treat yourself to the beauty of fine dinnerware anytime. Collections like these come with a higher price tag, but they’re made to last for years. 

To ensure your set is exactly what you dream of, buy from trusted sources — either directly from the brand or an authorized dealer who can guarantee quality and provide certification.