Overview
We often receive inquiries about metal allergies, especially from customers who have had negative experiences with plated costume jewelry or other cheap metal alloys. These experiences leave customers uncertain about what went wrong and often lead to common queries about what jewelry is best for sensitive wearers. Let's delve into how metal allergies occur and how to choose the right jewelry if you're allergic or sensitive to certain metals.
Causes
Metal allergies commonly stem from a reaction to nickel*. Yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum are nickel-free options, making them safe choices for sensitive jewelry wearers. However, white gold contains nickel and may trigger a reaction due to it's nickel content. Depending on the content ratios, white gold may contain up to 25% nickel.
Some individuals can develop allergies with age, often due to piercings or prolonged wear of certain pieces. It is essential to differentiate between an allergic reaction and the harmless green skin reaction or brass reaction caused by brass content. While allergies cannot be reversed, wearing nickel-free jewelry is a solution to reduce the chance of a reaction.
*It should be noted that while nickel allergies are the most common metal allergy, there are known cases of copper allergies and even gold allergies so consult with your physician if you are experiencing symptoms.
Symptoms, Treatments, & Alternatives
If you are hypersensitive to some metals, within 12-48 hours, you may notice symptoms including ash, itching, redness, dry patches or blisters, which can last from a few days to a few weeks.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for metal allergies so stick to general avoidance. The best alternatives to a nickel allergy are metals of 14K or higher in yellow or rose gold as well as platinum - these are specifically nickel free. Every single piece made with these alloys are stamped with a 14k, 18k, or PT marking, providing authenticity assurance so you can feel safe knowing that these items do not contain nickel.
All of our jewelry is designed in a minimum of 14k yellow gold, with the options to select an alternative alloy such as rose gold, white gold, or platinum. We take pride in creating high quality jewelry made from the best recycled gold in order to provide you with the finest jewelry experience possible and pieces that are made to last.
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nickel-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20351529