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JEWELRY ALLERGY INFO

HYPOALLERGENIC VS STERLING SILVER  
When you're shopping for new jewelry, especially pierced earrings, knowing the difference between hypoallergenic jewelry and sterling silver jewelry can help you make an informed choice. If you've experienced an allergic reaction to jewelry, the distinction is important.
 
HYPOALLERGENIC JEWELRY 
Hypoallergenic jewelry is made for people who experience allergic reactions to certain types of jewelry. Most people who experience such reactions are allergic to nickel. Hypoallergenic jewelry is made of pure metals such as stainless steel, which does not contain nickel. Silver and gold, by contrast, can contain varying degrees of nickel. People who are allergic to nickel can still wear these metals if they purchase high-quality -- or "fine" -- silver or gold, which is 99.9 percent silver or 99.9 percent gold.

 

STERLING SILVER JEWELRY 

Sterling silver is made up of 92.5% pure silver (hence the hallmark 925) and 7.5% of other metals, typically copper.

The trouble with copper is that it’s highly susceptible to tarnishing which is why sterling silver jewelry tends to oxidize so easily. But on the bright side, copper is a hypoallergenic metal because it’s a pure element.

Other metals that can be used in silver alloys include zinc, germanium, silicon, platinum and sometimes nickel. These metals add strength and durability to the metal and helps it to resist tarnishing.

It’s the possibility of there being nickel in the sterling silver alloy that can make it non-hypoallergenic.

When most people have allergies to metal, it’s because of nickel. Symptoms of nickel allergies can result in swelling, redness, itchiness and rashes.

The amount of nickel in sterling silver alloys is often negligible, but for those with intense sensitivity to nickel, this may still cause issues.

Sometimes sterling silver is plated with rhodium to enhance its shine and make it reflective. This is a great option because not only does it make the silver look great but it also keeps any nickel from touching your skin. Just be aware that as the rhodium wears off over time, your skin will come into contact with the base alloy.

 

FINDING HYPOALLERGENIC JEWELRY

All jewelry vendors should be able to tell you what their jewelry is made of. If you find a vendor who sells stainless steel, you have found hypoallergenic jewelry.

TIPS IF YOU HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN 

Ears and wrists are the most common trouble areas for people who have jewelry allergies. While you might be able to wear a necklace that contains nickel in it, your ears might become irritated if you wear a matching pair of earrings. For this reason, it's wise to buy only jewelry that is sterling silver, gold or stainless steel with gold plate.

INFORMATION SOURCE | www.leaftv.com 

INFORMATION SOURCE | www.jewelryshoppingguide.com