Why is jewelry safety important?
Jewelry is an integral part of many people's lives every day. However, not all consumers are aware that behind the surface of beautiful jewelry can be hidden dangerous chemicals that can cause health problems. Modern jewelry, especially in the mass-produced segment, is often made using metal alloys that may contain harmful elements such as nickel, cadmium and lead.
The role of REACH in jewelry safety
What is the REACH Regulation?
REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) is a European Union regulation adopted on 18 December 2006, regulating the registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemical substances. This regulation is intended to protect human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemical substances.
The role of the Lithuanian Assay Office
Lithuanian Assay Office, acting in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Lithuania on the State Supervision of Precious Metals and Gemstones (Article 16, paragraph 10), carries out control over the implementation of the REACH Regulation. During the assay process, each unit checks the amount of harmful elements in the products and their alloys submitted.
Main harmful substances in jewelry
Cadmium (Cd) – absolute ban
Chemical name: Cadmium
CAS number: 7440-43-9
Status: Completely prohibited
Cadmium is one of the most dangerous heavy metals for the human body and is not an essential element for living organisms. The REACH regulation strictly prohibits the use of cadmium in precious metal alloys and solders.
Health effects of cadmium:
- Causes acute and chronic poisoning
- Harmful to kidney function
- May cause cancer
- Accumulates in the body and is difficult to eliminate
- Especially dangerous for children and pregnant women
Nickel (Ni) – restricted use
Chemical name: Nickel
CAS number: 7440-02-0
Status: Allowed with strict restrictions
Nickel is used in many items, including jewelry, and can cause skin irritation and allergies. Nickel allergy is one of the most common contact allergies, affecting about 15-20% of the population.
The limits set by the REACH Regulation are:
- In earring posts and other products intended for insertion into pierced areas of the body:
- Maximum nickel release: less than 0.2 μg/cm² per week
- In products intended for direct and prolonged contact with the skin:
- Maximum nickel release: no more than 0.5 μg/cm² per week
- Applicable to: earrings, necklaces, bracelets, chains, anklets, rings, watch cases and bangles
Lead (Pb) – strictly controlled
Chemical name: Lead
CAS number: 7439-92-1
Status: Strictly controlled
Lead is one of the most dangerous heavy metals for the human body. Although the REACH regulation does not ban lead completely, its content in jewelry is strictly controlled.
Health effects of lead:
- Will affect the nervous system
- Harmful to the mental development of children
- Cause reproductive system disorders
- Can cause anemia and kidney damage
The problem with white gold
According to research data from the Lithuanian Assay Office, the nickel content of conventional white gold alloys of 375-750 standard fineness, exceeding 4-10%, may raise reasonable doubts about compliance with the provisions of the REACH Regulation. This means that traditional white gold may be unsafe for consumers, especially those with nickel sensitivity.
Alternative white gold solutions:
- Palladium alloys (more expensive, but safer)
- Platinum alloys (highest quality)
- Rhodium plating (economical solution)
How to protect yourself from harmful substances?
Buying tips:
- Choose reliable manufacturers and sellers
- Look for certificates and quality marks
- Avoid cheap products from unknown sources
- Check the composition of the materials
- Request information about alloy composition
- Choose white gold products especially carefully
- Pay attention to the country of origin
- Products from EU countries must comply with REACH requirements.
- Be careful with imported products
Usage recommendations:
- Monitor skin reactions
- Itching, redness, abrasion
- Rash at contact sites
- Skin irritation
- Proper product care
- Clean your jewelry regularly.
- Avoid aggressive cleaning agents
- Protect from moisture and chemicals
- Limit wearing time
- Take breaks.
- Do not take off for sleep
- Avoid wearing while exercising
Research methods and standards
In case of doubts about the levels of harmful chemicals in alloys, the Lithuanian Assay Office applies a basic test method approved in international standards to determine the nickel release rate. This method:
- Complies with EN 1811 standard (nickel release from products that come into direct and prolonged contact with the skin)
- Uses EN 12472 standard (nickel release from earring stems)
- Ensures accurate and reliable results
Consumer rights and information
Consumer rights:
- Get information about product composition
- Require certificates of conformity
- Return an unsafe product
- Obtain compensation for health damage
Where to seek help:
- Lithuanian Assay Office ([email protected])
- State Consumer Rights Protection Service
- State Food and Veterinary Service
Future prospects
The jewelry industry is constantly looking for new, safer materials and technologies. Currently, intensive development is underway in:
- Nanotechnology solutions
- Protective coating layers
- Controlled release of substances
- Biocompatible materials research
- Hypoallergenic alloys
- Medical grade metals
- Development of alternative materials
- Titanium alloys
- Use of ceramics and composites
Conclusions
The safety of jewelry is the right and responsibility of every consumer. The REACH regulation ensures strict controls, but consumers also need to be informed and careful. When choosing jewelry, you should always:
- Choose reliable manufacturers
- Check the composition of materials
- Observe your body's reactions
- Seek help when in doubt
Only through joint efforts of manufacturers, regulatory institutions, and consumers can a safe and high-quality jewelry market in Lithuania be ensured.
This article was prepared based on the recommendations of the Lithuanian Assay Chamber and the provisions of the REACH Regulation. For more information, please contact the Lithuanian Assay Chamber by e-mail [email protected]