I May Be Allergic to My Jewelry!
Working with non-precious metals, I am particularly aware of buyers’ concerns over purchasing the art jewelry that I create at Ally McBead Jewelry. As a retired health care professional, I wanted to dig into information to help my customers make well-informed buying decisions.
Overall, metal allergies are common, especially to nickel. In fact, 15% of the population is allergic to it. Here is an overview of the types of allergies that may occur in various metals that I use:
· Copper – a naturally occurring pure metal (yes, it can be found on the Periodic Table of Elements we had to memorize in Chemistry class). It has the characteristic red-orange color. Copper has the property of being very malleable which means it is easy to be hammered or pressed into shape. It maintains its strength and shape and gets even stronger when worked with tools. Pure copper can turn green when exposed to air over time (think Statue of Liberty). It is that same green tarnish or patina that can be transferred to the skin in sensitive people especially when it reacts to sweat, oils or lotions.
· Brass – a combination of copper and zinc. Has many properties of copper, but is a harder metal. Yellow brass has the appearance of gold, its composition is 60-70% copper, 30-40% zinc, tin and lead. Red brass is 80-85% copper, 8-10% zinc, 2-4% tin, and trace lead. The higher copper content gives the warm golden-red tint. A later arrival on the jewelry metal scene is natural brass which is hand finished to produce an antiqued, warm brown patina. Composition is 85% copper & 15% zinc. It is nickel- and lead-free. Sensitive individuals may react similarly to pure copper.
· Nickel Silver (aka German Silver) – a white metal used in combination with other metals to increase the overall strength. Often used as a less expensive substitute for sterling silver. Common reactions are skin irritations (i.e. itching, dry patches, redness, raised bumps). More severe reactions include blisters that may drain fluid.
· Stainless Steel – a white metal that is very strong. Between 8-35% of the population can react to skin contact since this metal can contain nickel. Nickel-free stainless steel and surgical grade stainless steel are fine to use with nickel allergies.
· Silver-Filled – this option is actually sterling silver with a core of copper or brass. The usual stains from sterling silver or silver-filled are black from the tarnishing effect when exposed to air. Sensitive individuals may get green staining on their skin due to the copper content of the core.
· Sterling Silver – considered a naturally occurring precious metal although in smaller amounts when compared to other metals. Known for its brilliant white color, malleability and ability to stretch and bend. It is a combination of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals; usually copper. Pure silver is very soft so it is combined with other metals to give it more strength. The .925 mark on sterling silver guarantees the above composition. It is prone to oxidation when exposed to air for a period of time. Individuals have noted a dullness to the metal and presence of tarnish that can leave black stains on skin and clothing. At this point in time, Ally McBead Jewelry only uses sterling silver wire.
Preventing Skin Irritation in Ally McBead Jewelry*
1. I seek out Nickel-free findings (i.e. ear wires, jump rings, closures, etc.) to the best of my ability. I test all metals with a substance that is able to detect Nickel in metals that are used. If Nickel is present, I coat the metal with a liquid to decrease the possibility of skin reactions. Periodic applications (every 3 mos.) of clear nail polish or Jewelry Shield ™ is a way for customers to continue creating a barrier on metal containing Nickel.
2. I apply a wax polish for metals to a) decrease tarnishing and secondary coloring of skin; b) apply a resistance to moisture; and c) seal patina finishes.
3. I apply a leather or cloth backing to larger areas of copper and brass to avoid skin contact.
* Please know that I openly discuss copper/brass sensitivities with my potential customers and will honestly discourage buying my art jewelry when there is concern or hesitancy.
I want you to be confident and delighted with your Ally McBead purchase!