THE QUEEN and Prince Philip are celebrating seventy years of marriage today - an event known as a 'platinum' anniversary.
But how did that particular metal come to be associated with such a long, glorious marriage, and what is the best present for a couple who have made it to such a milestone?
How are the Queen and Prince Philip celebrating?
The Daily Mail claims that the Queen was eager to celebrate her anniversary privately after so many jubilees and other big anniversaries over the past few years.
But don't expect her and Philip to mark the big day with a night in and a takeaway.
The paper claims that they are throwing a banquet for 150 guests at Windsor Castle, including the Queen's ladies-in-waiting and their husbands, the Duke of Edinburgh's German cousins and several European royals, including King Constantine of Greece.
It is believed they will have a drinks reception at 7:30pm, before dinner an hour later.
Carriages are at 10:30, as the Queen and Prince Philip still love parties, but aren't able to cope with late nights.
What are suitable gifts for other people's platinum anniversaries?
The most obvious gift for someone's seventieth wedding anniversary would be something made from, or featuring, the precious metal.
It is not uncommon for couples to 'upgrade' their wedding rings to the precious metal to mark the milestone.
Why is platinum used to mark the seventieth anniversary?
Platinum is an extremely rare metal which makes it highly valuable and precious.
Furthermore, as it doesn't tarnish easily and is resistant to corrosion, it is regarded as a suitable material to mark such a long standing marriage.
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