Tired of Jewellery Allergies?

Here's Why Hypoallergenic Metals Are Your Safer Choice!

You know that feeling when you buy a cute necklace or a pair of earrings, only to find yourself scratching, red, and slightly panicked within hours of wearing them? It’s likely that this is your skin having a slightly dramatic reaction to certain metals in your jewellery. Turns out, not all metals are created equal, and some can trigger an allergic reaction. But don’t worry, we’ve got the lowdown on hypoallergenic metals and why choosing the right jewellery can save you from an irritation fiasco!

Why Does Cheap Jewellery Make Me React?

Okay, let's get into it. So, you’ve got this beautiful shiny piece of new jewellery and it’s only a fraction of the price of gold or silver. But then, a few hours later—BAM! Your skin starts to itch, turn red, and swell up.

The culprit is usually the base metal used in cheaper jewellery. Most inexpensive pieces are made from alloys (a mixture of metals), and some of these alloys contain nickel, a metal known for causing allergic reactions. Nickel is actually one of the most common causes of jewellery allergies, and it’s found in everything from costume jewellery to cheap stainless-steel pieces.

Nickel is a bit of a troublemaker because it can react with your skin, especially when sweat, body oils, or moisture from the environment mix in. For some people, this causes irritation, rashes, and inflammation.

But that’s not the only bad guy lurking in your jewellery box. Some cheaper metals can also contain copper and zinc in high concentrations – these metals can also trigger irritation or allergic reactions. So, while the jewellery might seem like a bargain, your skin is paying the price.

What Makes Gold and Silver Different?

These two metals have been the stars of the jewellery world for centuries, and for good reason.

Gold: The Classic Beauty

Gold, especially when it's 14K or higher, is often hypoallergenic. Pure gold (24K) is naturally resistant to corrosion and doesn’t contain any of the nasty metals that cause allergic reactions. However, since pure gold is too soft for many jewellery pieces, it’s usually mixed with other metals like copper or silver to make it more durable. The higher the gold content, the less likely it is to cause a reaction.

If you’ve ever had a reaction to gold jewellery, chances are it’s because of the alloy metals mixed with it, not the gold itself. Look for jewellery that’s marked “14K” or “18K” for a higher gold content and a lower chance of irritation.

Silver: The Shiny Saviour

Silver is another great alternative, particularly 925 sterling silver (92.5% pure silver). While sterling silver is usually alloyed with a small amount of copper to make it stronger, it’s still much less likely to cause an allergic reaction than cheap costume jewellery. Plus, silver has natural antimicrobial properties, which means it’s less likely to harbour bacteria, which can also cause skin irritation.

Just like gold, silver can be mixed with other metals in jewellery, but sterling 925 silver is typically safe for most people to wear without issue.

You can be reassured to know you are purchasing gold or 925 sterling silver by checking for a Hallmark. All gold and sterling silver over the weight of 7g is required by UK law to have a hallmark present.

Is Gold and Silver-Plated Jewellery the Economical Answer?

While gold-plated or silver-plated jewellery might appear to be the best of both worlds - safe and affordable. The very thin layer of precious metal is often applied over a base metal of brass or copper (containing nickel).  The presence of these reactive metals underneath can lead to discomfort and allergic reactions, particularly when the plating wears off over time and the underlying metal becomes exposed to the skin.

Hypoallergenic Metals: Alternatives to Gold and Silver

These are metals that are either naturally gentle on the skin or are specifically alloyed in a way that minimizes irritation. Some popular hypoallergenic options include:

• Titanium: Lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, titanium is a great option for those who need jewellery that’s gentle on the skin.
• Platinum: This precious metal is not only stunning but also highly unlikely to cause skin reactions.
• Surgical Stainless Steel: A higher-grade stainless steel that’s less likely to cause irritation, often used in body jewellery and surgical implants.

How can we help?

Cheap jewellery might look good on your wallet, but it could be a disaster for your skin. When it comes to jewellery, quality matters. Gold, silver, and other hypoallergenic metals not only look gorgeous, but are much less likely to leave you scratching your neck or wrists in distress; and while you don’t have to break the bank to find beautiful, safe jewellery, being mindful of the materials used will help you avoid irritation and ensure you stay stylish and comfortable.

All inOre Jewellery is made in-house at our workshop in Scotland, using high quality metals including 925 sterling silver, 9ct and 18ct gold. Our precious metals are all sourced from credible suppliers who supply certificates of authenticity. Most of our products will also be hallmarked, which requires testing of the base metal to ensure it contains the correct composition.