The term "hypoallergenic" is commonly used to describe products or substances that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in individuals who are prone to allergies. Hypoallergenic products are designed to minimize the risk of triggering an allergic response and are formulated or manufactured in a way that reduces the presence of potential allergens.
In the case of jewellery, hypoallergenic metals are often used to make items like earrings and bracelets which come into direct contact with the skin.
The most common hypoallergenic metals used in jewellery are:
- Sterling Silver
- Titanium
- Niobium
- Stainless Steel
- Gold (9k, 14k, 18k and 24k)
- Titanium
Sterling Silver:
- While beautiful, pure silver is soft and very malleable, making it not ideal everyday wear. To combat this, metals are added to reinforce the silver making the signature sterling silver.
- It is durable, affordable, and easy to care for, sterling silver offers the lasting durability necessary for routine wear without compromising its aesthetic qualities.
- Different to pure silver, sterling silver and is made up of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. You can tell if a metal is sterling silver by the small 925 engraving on the piece of jewellery.
- Sterling silver is a popular choice for hypoallergenic jewellery.
Care:
- While sterling silver is prone to tarnishing, you can reduce this by wearing your jewellery often.
- When not being worn, it’s best to keep your silver pieces in a soft cloth inside a covered box.
- To preserve its lasting shine, use a specially designated sterling silver cleaner.
What is Sterling Silver? The Uses of Sterling Silver in Jewellery
Sterling Silver vs. Silver-Plated: What's the Difference?
Titanium:
- Titanium is a lightweight and extremely durable metal.
- It is the only metal to possess the strength of steel yet a weight comparable to aluminium.
- It has a silvery grey colour.
- This metal is highly resistant to corrosion and doesn’t react to salt water or sunlight.
- This metal is biocompatible, meaning it is non-toxic and non-reactive with the human body. It is also 100% hypoallergenic.
Care:
- Although virtually indestructible, titanium can be scratched. We recommend you remove your jewellery when using chemicals to reduce abrasions and prolong the polish.
- Polishing with a soft cloth regularly can help retain its beautiful finish.
- To clean your titanium jewellery, use a solution of warm water and detergent-free soap with a soft cloth.
Niobium:
- This metal is like titanium in that it is biocompatible, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion and tarnishing. However, oil and grease can affect the colour and make it look dull.
- It is also available in a wide range of colours and can be anodized to produce a protective oxide layer that further enhances its hypoallergenic properties.
Care:
- To clean the niobium, simply wash in warm soapy water with a soft cloth or brush.
- DO NOT use abrasives on the niobium.
Stainless Steel:
- Stainless steel jewellery is cut from solid pieces of steel, leaving no seams or weak points.
- This metal is durable, corrosion-resistant, and affordable, making it a popular choice for jewellery.
- Generally containing 10.5% chromium, stainless steel resists oxidation, preventing rust or stains on its surface
- Ultra-high-grade stainless steel is non-magnetic and resembles platinum while maintaining a higher strength.
- A non-traditional choice for fine jewellery, stainless steel has been used more frequently in rings, necklaces, and bracelets. For added style options, it can be reinforced with gold, tungsten, or other materials.
- 316L Stainless Steel, also known as surgical steel, is hypoallergenic because it does not contain nickel, which is a common allergen.
Care:
- Stainless steel jewellery can be cleaned using detergent-free soap and warm water or a steam cleaner.
- Ultrasonic cleaners can also be used on stainless steel pieces without inlaid gemstones.
Hypoallergenic Metals- Stainless Steel vs. Titanium
Gold:
- Pure gold, known as 24-karat gold, in general is too soft for fine jewellery.
- Pure gold is alloyed with other metals, usually silver, copper, zinc, nickel, or palladium (for white gold), to make it more durable and practical for everyday wear.
- While pure gold is hypoallergenic, it is often mixed with other metals (such as nickel) which can cause a reaction in some people. To ensure that gold jewellery is hypoallergenic, look for pieces that are 14k or higher, as these are less likely to contain allergenic metals.
Care:
- Store your gold pieces in soft cloth bags or in their original boxes when not in use.
- Prevent abrasions and dulling by keeping your gold jewellery away from chlorine, cleaning fluid and other household cleaners.
- Gold jewellery should be routinely cleaned using a soft-bristled brush with a detergent-free soap and warm water. Soaking your gold jewellery is strongly discouraged.
- If your gold jewellery is plated rather than solid, DO NOT clean with liquid cleaner or polish with a pre-treated cloth intended for items with no coating. These can break down and shorten the life of the gold plating.
- You should get your gold jewellery professional cleaning three to four times a year to check settings and clasps.
Your Crash Course Introduction to Gold used in Jewellery
Platinum:
- Platinum is one of the rarest and heaviest elements in the Earth's crust. It is considered one of the purest precious metals.
- It is durable, resistant to corrosion and tarnishing, and has a true, white appearance that requires no plating, and the natural white sheen will never fade.
- Platinum is four times stronger than gold.
- Its incredible strength makes it the most durable choice for everyday wear and is a popular choice for engagement rings and other high-end jewellery.
- Due to its strength, platinum is mixed with other metals to make it more malleable. Most platinum used in jewellery is 90% pure platinum, with 10% being iridium, palladium, or ruthenium. Platinum is 100% hypoallergenic.
- Over time, platinum can develop a “patina.” While some wearers enjoy this look, it can be refinished to its original lustre if preferred.
Care:
- To clean, platinum jewellery should be soaked in a mild solution (of soap and warm water) and then gentle scrubbed with a soft-bristled brush.
- To maintain its lustre, buff your platinum jewellery with a soft cloth.
- Getting your platinum jewellery professionally refinished can also renew its shine.
Overall:
These metals are hypoallergenic because they are less likely to cause a reaction in people with sensitive skin. However, it is still possible for someone to have an allergic reaction to these metals, so it is important to be aware of any sensitivities you may have and to choose jewellery accordingly.
More Articles:
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Hypoallergenic Metals- Stainless Steel vs. Titanium
What is Sterling Silver? The Uses of Sterling Silver in Jewellery
Sterling Silver vs. Silver-Plated: What's the Difference?
Which Should You Choose: Gold or Silver? Understanding Your Skin Tone
Your Crash Course Introduction to Gold used in Jewellery
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