Fake opalescent pearls are one of the types of costume
jewelry that may contain lead.
My reader Craig, who I’ve mentioned before because he sends me so many suggestions for Debra’s List, sent me a whole list of websites this week that sell nickel-free products, which led me to create a whole new “allergy-free” section on Debra’s List. While browsing these websites, I came across one that sells “nickel- and lead-free” jewelry.
I haven’t really written about lead in jewelry, so wanted to do that now.
Lead is one of the most toxic substances there is. It is well known there is no safe level for lead, but still it is found in many consumer products.
One of them is costume jewelry. In fact, high levels of lead have been found in costume jewelry, especially costume jewelry for children. Lead has often been used in jewelry, to make the piece heavier, brighten colors, and to stabilize or soften plastic.
Lead exposure from costume jewelry can be dangerous, even deadly. So much so it is regulated by the State of California with the Metal-Containing Jewelry Law.
I don’t wear much costume jewelry myself anyway, but this is a reason not to. Especially do not give costume jewelry to children to wear.
The CDC says wearing toy jewelry will not cause your child to have high level of lead in their blood. Lead does not permeate through the skin. But children do put things in their mouths. If you have children in your home, keep any adult costume jewelry out of their reach as well, as they can be made ill if it is swallowed.
Typically precious metals and real stones do not contain lead and are safe to wear.
CBS NEWS: Costume Jewelry Found to Have High Level of Toxins and Carcinogens, Test Show
CALFIRONIA WATCH: Why should I be concerned about lead in jewelry?
