Scrap Price Platinum Per Gram: Your 2026 Guide

Scrap price platinum per gram is a critical metric for anyone dealing with precious metals, especially in the industrial and recycling sectors across the United States. Understanding these fluctuations is key to maximizing returns on platinum-containing scrap materials. As of 2026, the market for platinum remains robust, driven by its essential role in catalytic converters, jewelry, and various industrial applications. For businesses and individuals in Durham, North Carolina, staying informed about the real-time scrap price platinum per gram ensures informed decisions, whether you’re selling old jewelry, industrial catalysts, or other platinum-bearing items. This guide will delve into the factors influencing platinum scrap prices and provide insights relevant to the Durham market.

Navigating the world of precious metal valuation can be complex. Platinum, often overshadowed by gold, holds significant value due to its rarity and unique chemical properties. In the United States, the scrap price platinum per gram is influenced by a dynamic interplay of global supply and demand, industrial usage trends, and economic stability. This article aims to demystify these factors, offering clear guidance for residents and businesses in Durham, United States, and beyond. We?ll explore how to find the best prices, what affects them, and why Maiyam Group is your premier partner for all precious metal transactions, including platinum scrap.

Understanding Scrap Price Platinum Per Gram

The value of platinum scrap is determined by its purity and the current market rate for refined platinum. When you sell platinum scrap, you’re essentially selling the raw material that can be reprocessed and reintroduced into the manufacturing cycle. This makes the recycling of platinum an economically and environmentally vital process. For industrial manufacturers in sectors like automotive and chemical production, sourcing recycled platinum can be more cost-effective and sustainable than opting for newly mined material. The scrap price platinum per gram directly reflects the global demand for platinum in these industries. Fluctuations can occur daily, influenced by geopolitical events, changes in mining output, and technological advancements that either increase or decrease platinum’s utility. Businesses in Durham, United States, that handle platinum-containing components, such as spent catalytic converters from automotive repair shops or waste from jewelry manufacturing, need to monitor these price shifts closely.

Factors Influencing Platinum Scrap Value

Several key elements dictate the scrap price platinum per gram. Purity is paramount; higher karat platinum will fetch a better price. Assaying or testing the material is crucial to determine its exact composition. Beyond purity, the global market price of refined platinum is the primary driver. This price is influenced by:

• Industrial Demand: The automotive sector’s need for catalytic converters is a major consumer of platinum. Growth in car production, especially for vehicles meeting stricter emissions standards, increases demand. Similarly, the chemical industry uses platinum in processes like nitric acid production.
• Supply Constraints: Platinum mining is concentrated in a few regions, primarily South Africa and Russia. Geopolitical instability, labor issues, or regulatory changes in these areas can disrupt supply and drive up prices.
• Economic Conditions: In times of economic uncertainty, demand for luxury goods like platinum jewelry may decrease, impacting prices. Conversely, strong economic growth often correlates with higher platinum demand.
• Recycling Rates: The efficiency and accessibility of platinum recycling programs in regions like Durham, United States, affect the availability of secondary supply.

Maiyam Group understands these nuances and works diligently to provide fair and competitive pricing for all platinum scrap, ensuring clients receive the true value of their materials.

The Role of Assaying in Platinum Scrap Pricing

Accurate assaying is non-negotiable when determining the true scrap price platinum per gram. This process involves sophisticated techniques to precisely measure the platinum content and identify any other precious metals present, such as palladium, rhodium, or gold, which are often found alongside platinum. Reputable refiners like Maiyam Group employ advanced X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or fire assay methods to ensure accuracy. Understanding the assay report empowers sellers to verify the price offered and ensures transparency in the transaction. For businesses in Durham, partnering with a certified assaying facility or a refinery that provides detailed assay reports is essential for building trust and ensuring fair compensation.

Types of Platinum Scrap and Their Value

Not all platinum scrap is created equal. Different sources yield different types of platinum scrap, each with its own characteristics and potential value. Understanding these categories helps in estimating potential returns and preparing materials for sale. As a leading mineral trading company in the United States, Maiyam Group handles a diverse range of platinum scrap materials.

Catalytic Converters

Spent catalytic converters from vehicles are a major source of platinum scrap. These contain a ceramic honeycomb coated with a small amount of platinum group metals (PGMs), including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The exact amount and type of PGM vary significantly based on the vehicle’s make, model, and year. The scrap price platinum per gram derived from catalytic converters depends heavily on the efficiency of the extraction and refining process. For automotive businesses in Durham, collaborating with a reliable scrap buyer who specializes in these complex materials is crucial.

Jewelry Scrap

Platinum jewelry, while less common than gold, is highly valued. Items like rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made from platinum (often marked as PT950 or similar) can be recycled for their platinum content. The scrap price platinum per gram for jewelry is generally higher due to its purity compared to industrial scrap. However, removing any gemstones before selling is advisable, as their value is assessed separately. Maiyam Group accepts all forms of platinum jewelry scrap, offering competitive rates.

Industrial Scrap

Various industrial processes utilize platinum. This includes platinum-plated equipment, laboratory crucibles, thermocouples, and chemical processing catalysts. The concentration of platinum in industrial scrap can vary widely, from high-purity components to trace amounts in waste materials. Identifying and segregating these platinum-rich waste streams is key for manufacturers. For instance, companies in the chemical production sector in the United States might generate significant platinum-containing waste that, when recycled, can offer substantial financial returns. Maiyam Group partners with industrial clients to manage and process these materials effectively.

Other Platinum-Containing Items

Beyond the major categories, platinum is found in other less common items, such as certain electronic components, specialized medical equipment, and even some types of spark plugs. Recognizing these potential sources can uncover unexpected value. Even trace amounts, when aggregated across many items, can contribute significantly to the overall scrap price platinum per gram obtained through recycling efforts.

How to Maximize Your Returns on Platinum Scrap

Getting the best possible scrap price platinum per gram requires a strategic approach. It?s not just about having platinum scrap; it?s about how you handle, process, and sell it. For businesses and individuals in Durham and across the United States, these tips can significantly enhance the value received.

Proper Segregation and Storage

The first step is meticulous segregation. Keep platinum scrap separate from other metals, especially gold, silver, or base metals, as mixing can reduce the overall purity and complicate the refining process, potentially lowering the price. Store your platinum scrap in a clean, dry environment to prevent contamination or loss. For industrial clients, establishing clear protocols for collecting and storing platinum-bearing waste is essential for long-term efficiency and profitability.

Accurate Identification and Purity Assessment

Familiarize yourself with common platinum markings (e.g., PT950, PT900). While professional assaying is the most accurate method, a preliminary understanding of purity can help you estimate value. If you have multiple types of platinum scrap (e.g., jewelry and industrial catalysts), sorting them by type and suspected purity before seeking quotes can streamline the process and ensure you?re getting comparable offers.

Choosing a Reputable Buyer

This is perhaps the most critical factor. A reputable buyer will offer transparent pricing, provide detailed assay reports, and have a proven track record. Maiyam Group prides itself on ethical sourcing, transparent dealings, and competitive pricing, making us a trusted partner for platinum scrap in the United States and globally. We understand the local regulations in regions like Durham, United States, ensuring all transactions are compliant and fair. When selecting a buyer, look for certifications, customer reviews, and clear communication about their processes. A buyer who is willing to explain their pricing and assay methods instills confidence.

Understanding Market Trends

While daily price fluctuations are hard to predict, understanding broader market trends can help you decide the optimal time to sell. Factors like upcoming industrial demands or potential supply disruptions can give you an edge. Staying informed through industry news and market reports can inform your selling strategy. For the United States market, keeping an eye on global platinum production reports and automotive industry forecasts can be particularly insightful.

Working with Maiyam Group

As Africa?s Premier Precious Metal & Industrial Mineral Export Partner, Maiyam Group offers a streamlined solution for your platinum scrap. We combine geological expertise with advanced supply chain management to provide customized mineral solutions. Our direct access to mining operations and certified quality assurance ensure you receive the best value. We handle everything from logistics to export documentation, making the process seamless for clients worldwide, including those in Durham.

The Global Platinum Market and Its Impact on Scrap Prices in the US

The scrap price platinum per gram is intrinsically linked to the global platinum market. This market is characterized by its concentrated supply, primarily from South Africa and Russia, and robust demand from key industries. Understanding these global dynamics provides essential context for anyone looking to sell platinum scrap in the United States, including in specific regions like Durham.

Supply Dynamics: Mining and Geopolitics

South Africa accounts for the largest share of global platinum production, followed by Russia. Mining operations in these regions are susceptible to various factors, including labor disputes, energy costs, and regulatory changes. Geopolitical tensions or political instability in these key producing nations can disrupt supply chains, leading to price spikes. For example, strikes in South African mines have historically caused significant volatility in platinum prices. The United States, while not a major producer, is a significant consumer, making it reliant on these global supply chains. Therefore, events on the other side of the world can directly impact the scrap price platinum per gram offered to businesses in Durham.

Demand Drivers: Industry Applications

Platinum’s unique properties?its catalytic activity, resistance to corrosion, and high melting point?make it indispensable in several critical industries:

• Automotive: The primary use of platinum is in catalytic converters, which reduce harmful emissions from internal combustion engines. The ongoing transition to cleaner energy technologies, including hybrid vehicles, still relies heavily on platinum for emission control systems.
• Industrial: Platinum is used as a catalyst in the production of chemicals like nitric acid, silicone, and in petroleum refining. Its durability also makes it suitable for specialized industrial equipment.
• Jewelry: Platinum is a popular choice for high-end jewelry due to its luster, rarity, and hypoallergenic properties. Demand in this sector can significantly influence overall market prices.
• Investment: Platinum is also traded as an investment commodity, similar to gold and silver, with investors buying platinum bars, coins, or through financial instruments.

These diverse demand sources create a complex market that can shift rapidly. For instance, new environmental regulations mandating lower emissions could boost demand for platinum in automotive applications, thereby increasing the scrap price platinum per gram for recyclers in the United States.

The Role of Recycling in the Platinum Economy

Platinum recycling plays a crucial role in meeting demand and stabilizing prices. It provides a more sustainable and often more cost-effective source of platinum compared to new mining. Efficient recycling processes, like those managed by Maiyam Group, recover valuable platinum from end-of-life products, reducing the need for primary extraction and mitigating supply chain risks. This circular economy approach benefits both the environment and the economy, ensuring a more consistent availability of platinum and influencing the scrap price platinum per gram offered to consumers and businesses across the United States.

Top Platinum Scrap Buyers in the United States (2026)

When it comes to selling platinum scrap, choosing the right buyer is paramount to ensuring you receive fair value. In the United States, numerous options exist, ranging from local jewelers to specialized industrial refiners. For businesses and individuals in Durham, understanding the landscape of reputable platinum scrap buyers is key to maximizing your return on investment. Maiyam Group stands out as a premier dealer in strategic minerals and commodities, offering comprehensive solutions for precious metal transactions.

Maiyam Group: Your Premier Partner

Maiyam Group leads the mineral trade industry with a commitment to ethical sourcing and quality assurance. We specialize in connecting Africa?s abundant resources with global markets, ensuring our clients receive premium materials. For platinum scrap, we offer:

• Certified Quality Assurance: We guarantee the accurate assessment of your platinum scrap, ensuring you get paid for its true value.
• Competitive Pricing: Our deep market knowledge and direct access to refining operations allow us to offer some of the best scrap prices for platinum per gram in the industry.
• Streamlined Logistics: We manage the entire process, from collection and assaying to refining and payment, simplifying the experience for you.
• Ethical Sourcing: We adhere to strict international trade standards and environmental regulations, ensuring responsible practices.

Whether you are a jewelry store in Durham, an automotive recycling facility, or an industrial manufacturer with platinum waste streams, Maiyam Group is equipped to handle your needs. Our expertise ensures a seamless transaction from mine to market.

Other Considerations for Buyers

While Maiyam Group offers a comprehensive solution, other types of buyers exist:

• Local Jewelers: Often buy jewelry scrap but may offer lower prices as they typically sell to larger refiners. They are convenient for small, personal items.
• Specialized Scrap Metal Recyclers: Some focus on specific materials like catalytic converters. Their expertise in these niche areas can be beneficial, but ensure they have certified assaying capabilities.
• Online Precious Metal Buyers: These can offer convenience, but it’s crucial to research their reputation, process, and payout rates carefully.

For industrial quantities and high-purity materials, working directly with a global refinery like Maiyam Group is often the most profitable and secure option. We understand the complexities of industrial scrap and provide tailored solutions that larger, less specialized buyers may not be able to match. Our presence in the United States market through our export services ensures accessibility for businesses nationwide.

Cost and Pricing for Platinum Scrap per Gram

Understanding the cost and pricing structure for platinum scrap is essential for sellers. The scrap price platinum per gram is not a fixed number; it fluctuates based on numerous factors, including the daily spot price of platinum, the purity of the scrap, and the buyer?s operational costs and profit margins. As of 2026, the market continues to show resilience, making informed selling crucial.

Factors Affecting the Price You Receive

When you sell platinum scrap, the price offered is typically a percentage of the current refined platinum market price. This discount accounts for the costs associated with refining, assaying, and the buyer?s profit. Key factors influencing the final price include:

• Purity (Fineness): Higher purity platinum (e.g., 95% or PT950) will command a higher price per gram than lower purity alloys.
• Market Spot Price: The global real-time price of platinum is the benchmark. This fluctuates constantly based on supply and demand.
• Volume: Larger quantities of scrap often allow for better negotiation and potentially a higher price per gram, as refining costs are spread across more material.
• Type of Scrap: Jewelry scrap might fetch a slightly higher rate than industrial scrap due to easier refining and potentially higher purity. Catalytic converters require specialized processing, which can affect the net price.
• Buyer’s Fees: Refining fees, assaying costs, and assay loss percentages can all impact the final payout. Transparent buyers clearly state these deductions.

Maiyam Group is committed to transparency. We provide detailed assay reports and clearly outline any deductions, ensuring you understand exactly how your final price is determined. Our goal is to offer the highest possible return for your platinum scrap, reflecting the true market value.

Average Price Ranges in the US (2026)

Predicting exact prices is difficult due to market volatility. However, as a general guideline in the United States for 2026, the scrap price platinum per gram for high-purity material (95%+) might range significantly. For example, if the spot price of refined platinum is $1,000 per ounce, which translates to roughly $35 per gram, you might expect to receive anywhere from 60% to 85% of that spot price for your scrap, depending on the factors mentioned above. This would place the scrap value anywhere from $21 to $30 per gram. However, this is a simplified example, and actual prices will vary. For industrial scrap like catalytic converters, the value is determined by the PGM content identified through assaying, rather than a simple purity percentage.

How to Get the Best Value for Your Platinum Scrap

To ensure you receive the best possible value:

1. Know Your Material: Estimate the purity and weight of your scrap.
2. Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several reputable buyers, including Maiyam Group, to compare offers. Ensure all quotes are based on the same purity and weight.
3. Understand the Assay: Request a detailed assay report and ensure it aligns with the price offered.
4. Consider Volume Discounts: If you have large quantities, inquire about potential volume-based pricing.
5. Choose Transparency: Opt for buyers who are open about their pricing, fees, and refining processes.

By following these steps, you can confidently navigate the market and secure the best scrap price platinum per gram for your materials in the United States market.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Platinum Scrap

Selling platinum scrap might seem straightforward, but several common mistakes can cost you significant value. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you secure a better deal and ensure a smooth transaction, especially for those in areas like Durham, United States, looking to maximize their returns on the scrap price platinum per gram.

1. Mixing Metals: This is a cardinal sin. Mixing platinum with gold, silver, or base metals contaminates your batch, leading to a lower overall purity assessment and reduced price. Always segregate your platinum scrap meticulously.
2. Not Getting an Assay Report: Relying solely on a buyer’s verbal estimate without a detailed assay report is risky. A certified report provides definitive proof of platinum content and other precious metals present, ensuring transparency and accountability. Maiyam Group provides comprehensive assaying for all materials.
3. Selling to the First Buyer: Without comparing offers from multiple reputable sources, you might leave money on the table. Different buyers have different pricing structures and refining efficiencies. Get quotes from at least two or three trusted entities.
4. Ignoring Market Fluctuations: Selling during a market downturn without understanding the reasons can lead to lower profits. While timing the market perfectly is difficult, staying informed about global supply and demand trends can help.
5. Misidentifying Material: Mistaking platinum for white gold or other alloys can lead to incorrect pricing expectations. Platinum has distinct markings (PT950, PT900) and properties that differ from white gold.
6. Overlooking Industrial or Electronic Scrap: Many businesses overlook the value in platinum found in industrial components or electronic waste. These streams can contain significant amounts of platinum, contributing substantially to the overall scrap price platinum per gram.

By avoiding these common errors and partnering with knowledgeable buyers like Maiyam Group, you can ensure you receive the best possible value for your platinum scrap.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scrap Price Platinum Per Gram

Conclusion: Maximizing Your Platinum Scrap Value in 2026

Understanding the scrap price platinum per gram is essential for anyone looking to profit from platinum-containing materials in the United States. Whether you are a business in Durham, North Carolina, dealing with industrial catalysts or an individual with old platinum jewelry, informed decisions lead to better returns. As we?ve explored, factors like purity, global market demand, supply chain stability, and the reputation of your chosen buyer significantly impact the final price you receive. By meticulously segregating your scrap, seeking accurate assay reports, comparing quotes from reputable sources like Maiyam Group, and staying informed about market trends, you can confidently navigate the platinum recycling landscape in 2026.

Maiyam Group is dedicated to providing transparent, fair, and competitive pricing for all precious metals, including platinum scrap. Our commitment to ethical sourcing, certified quality assurance, and streamlined logistics makes us the ideal partner for businesses and individuals across the United States seeking to maximize their returns. We leverage our expertise to ensure you receive the true value of your platinum, contributing to a sustainable and profitable circular economy.

Key Takeaways:

• Scrap platinum prices are driven by global market dynamics and material purity.
• Accurate assaying and segregation are crucial for maximizing value.
• Choosing a reputable buyer like Maiyam Group ensures fair pricing and transparency.
• Understanding market trends and industrial demand helps in strategic selling.
• Platinum recycling remains a profitable and environmentally conscious endeavor in 2026.