Have you abandoned silver-tone jewelry because of allergic reactions? Have you considered sterling silver jewelry? If you’re curious, “is sterling silver hypoallergenic,” then this post is perfect for you!
Keyword(s): Primary KW – is sterling silver hypoallergenic; Secondary KWs – hypoallergenic earrings, nickel free earrings, is sterling silver good, hypoallergenic metals, jewelry allergy
Have you ever encountered an ideal piece of jewelry, only to be dismayed by itchy rashes the next day?
If so, you might suffer from a metal allergy. Symptoms include rashes, redness, swelling, and itching at the contact point with the metal. This can be particularly troublesome around the ears if you unknowingly wear earrings made from a metal you are allergic to.
Understanding the distinction between hypoallergenic and standard jewelry can help you make a better choice. You might also wonder: is sterling silver hypoallergenic?
Continue reading to discover all you need to know about sterling silver and allergies.
Is Sterling Silver Hypoallergenic?
The answer is: it depends.
Authentic sterling silver is labeled “sterling” because it comprises at least 92.5% pure silver. The remaining 7.5% typically consists of other metals, often copper, which is also non-allergenic.
However…
Some “less-than-reputable” manufacturers (often based in China) may substitute this with cheaper metals like nickel. Around 5-10% of people have a nickel allergy. Nickel allergies are the most common metal allergies, leading to skin irritation and itching upon contact.
Unscrupulous manufacturers might also sell “silver” jewelry that is merely silver-plated. Silver plating involves a thin silver layer coating a base metal, which can easily flake, exposing the skin to underlying metals like brass.
“Silver filled” is another misleading term. It suggests the interior is filled with silver, which is not the case—instead, it is a thicker silver plating that doesn’t guarantee allergy prevention.
Hypoallergenic Jewelry
Hypoallergenic jewelry caters to those who get allergic reactions from certain metals, with nickel being the major culprit. Always check labels to ensure the jewelry is nickel-free.
Here are some other hypoallergenic metals suitable for people with metal allergies:
Gold is an excellent hypoallergenic choice. Its purity is measured by karats, with 24kt being pure gold. Pure gold, however, is usually too soft for jewelry, so 14kt gold is more common, comprising 14 parts gold out of 24 and 10 parts other metals. Though very small amounts of nickel can be present, high-quality gold typically contains enough pure gold to avoid allergic reactions.
Platinum is another hypoallergenic metal, though pricier. It’s durable, tarnish-resistant, and seldom causes rashes or itching, making it a long-lasting investment.
Rhodium, part of the same family as platinum, is also hypoallergenic. It’s used to finish white gold, adding shine and luster. Rhodium-plated sterling silver combines affordability with anti-tarnish properties.
Brands like Eros Milano from Italy use rhodium over sterling silver, offering a balance of quality and price.
Argentium is another hypoallergenic silver variant, using germanium as a hardener, resulting in a brighter silver color and tarnish resistance. Certified 100% recycled, it is also environmentally friendly.
Niobium is great for those with metal allergies, being resistant to corrosion and used in medical implants. It contains no nickel, lead, or additives, making it hypoallergenic and available in various colors.
Ready to Purchase Hypoallergenic Jewelry?
If identifying allergy-free jewelry seems overwhelming, remember to read labels and check for hypoallergenic ingredients.
Sterling silver quality varies; lower-grade sterling silver may contain nickel, which commonly causes reactions. Hence, the notion “Is sterling silver hypoallergenic?” hinges on the quality.
Investing in high-quality hypoallergenic jewelry ensures longevity and comfort. A recommended starter piece is a high-quality 925 sterling silver chain.
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