Final answer:
The expensive, silver-white metal used in jewelry referred to is platinum, which is known for its rarity, durability, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for fine jewelry.
Step-by-step explanation:
An expensive, silver-white metal often used in jewelry is platinum. This metal, belonging to the platinum metals group, is highly valued for its rarity and its aesthetic qualities in fine jewelry. Platinum is well known for its high resistance to corrosion and its inertness, which makes it durable and perfect for high-end jewelry that can last a lifetime. When discussing the context of jewelry, gold is also frequently mentioned as a valuable and sought-after metal, being used extensively in jewelry and often representing wealth. However, in contrast to gold's softer characteristic, platinum is more durable and dense, making it particularly suitable for intricate and lasting jewelry designs.