Everyone loves the sparkly look of designer earrings. They are available in a variety of metal types including gold, platinum and silver. Unfortunately many suffer a variety of difficulties associated with metal allergies. Skin allergies due to metal may appear in the form of a rash, itching, swelling, burning, or redness.

Most jewelry contains one alloy that tends to cause allergies in about 15% of the population. That alloy is nickel and it is used to strengthen the product to make it more durable. Nickel is the preferred substance because it’s inexpensive and strong.

Gold jewelry under 14 karats can cause an allergic reaction to those who suffer from nickel allergies. Most gold uses nickel as a hardening agent. Cheaper forms of jewelry are primarily comprised of nickel and will cause allergy sufferers to have some sort of reaction.

Sterling Silver can be Worn by Metal Allergy Sufferers

Most people who suffer from skin allergies can wear silver earrings with ease. If you have recently purchased new jewelry or had some part of your body pierced and had an adverse reaction, you may suffer from metal allergies. You certainly should avoid nickel as this is more than likely the cause of your skin reaction.

The United States Federal Trade Commission says that any jewelry sold in the US cannot be marked or described as sterling silver, silver, sterling, or solid silver unless it is comprised of no less than 92.5% Brand Levitra pure silver

Pure silver is too soft to be made into anything that requires durability, so it is mixed with certain other alloys to avoid metal allergies. Sterling silver most commonly uses copper as a hardening agent. In 2003 a form of platinum was used to enhance the durability and shine. It is harder than other alloy mixtures and tarnish resistant.

Avoiding Allergic Reactions to Nickel

Currently there are no vaccines for those who suffer from nickel allergies. It’s imperative to avoid any jewelry that contains nickel. You are advised to pay special attention to any types of metal products that you purchase.

Rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets; all need to be inspected to ensure they do not contain nickel. You may have to replace a lot of your jewelry, do so with pieces that are guaranteed to be nickel free. You should also lean toward earrings labeled hypoallergenic.

The Benefits of Sterling Silver

Not only can you find almost every type of jewelry you’re looking for, you may also find that you’re less likely to develop metal allergies. Because your jewelry is 92.5 percent silver you know you’re getting something that has lower levels of other metals.

Many forms of nickel free jewelry are too expensive for everyday use. Sterling earrings are very nice, beautiful and affordable.

Properly cared for silver earrings retain their beauty and brings the wearer joy for many years. Simply place them in a nice cloth bag or air tight container when you’re not wearing them to protect it from being scratched by other metals. Shine with a soft cloth when you want an extra sheen and away you go.

Author Bio: Doug Davis writes for JewelryPayless.com an online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry including sterling silver earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces.

Category: Beauty/Fashion/Jewelry
Keywords: sterling silver, jewelry, sterling silver earrings, metal allergies, metal allergy