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A Complete Guide to Hypoallergenic Jewelry

by Stephanie Kim 18 Aug 2025 2 min read

Don't let the clinical name deter you; hypoallergenic jewelry aims to prevent allergic reactions through thoughtfully chosen materials. In this guide, we delve into metals and pieces tailored for individuals with sensitive skin, ensuring your jewelry is not only suitable for everyday wear but also destined to become cherished heirlooms in your collection.

What is hypoallergenic jewelry?

Hypoallergenic jewelry refers to pieces designed to minimize the risk of causing allergic reactions or skin irritations in individuals with sensitive skin. Crafted from materials less likely to trigger allergic responses, they are suitable for those prone to metal allergies.

Signs of allergic reaction with jewelry

If you experience rashes, redness, swelling, or itchiness, it may be due to an allergic reaction to nickel or other metals commonly found in jewelry. Nickel, being a low-cost material often combined with softer metals like gold, is the most common culprit for jewelry allergies.

Some people might experience skin discoloration when wearing certain metals, especially when they sweat. True metal allergies might lead to itchiness, redness, or a rash.

What makes jewelry hypoallergenic

Now that we've clarified what hypoallergenic jewelry entails, let's explore the factors that contribute to its hypoallergenic nature:

  • Material Selection: Hypoallergenic jewelry uses metals like gold, platinum, titanium, stainless steel, and sterling silver known for their low allergenicity.
  • Nickel-Free: To minimize allergic reactions, hypoallergenic jewelry avoids nickel, a common allergen found in many metal alloys.
  • Low Reactivity: These materials have low reactivity with the skin, reducing the likelihood of irritation or sensitivity during prolonged wear.
  • Non-Toxic Coatings: Some jewelry features non-toxic coatings or platings, such as rhodium plating on sterling silver, to further minimize skin reactions.
  • Allergen Testing: Reputable manufacturers conduct allergen testing to ensure their products meet hypoallergenic standards and are safe for individuals with sensitive skin.
  • Metals that cause allergic reactions in jewelry

    Metals commonly known to cause allergic reactions in jewelry wearers are:

  • Nickel: A common allergen in jewelry, nickel can cause various skin irritations, including redness, itching, and even blistering, particularly in those with sensitive skin.
  • Brass: Although primarily composed of copper and zinc, brass may contain trace amounts of nickel, which can elicit allergic reactions in individuals prone to metal allergies.
  • It's essential to be aware of these metals if you have sensitive skin or a known metal allergy to avoid potential allergic reactions when wearing jewelry.

    Tips For Choosing Hypoallergenic Jewelry

  • Read Labels: Always check product descriptions for terms like "nickel-free," "hypoallergenic," or "skin-friendly" to ensure the jewelry suits your needs.
  • Avoid Common Allergens: Opt for jewelry made from certified hypoallergenic materials like 18K or 24K gold. Be cautious with gold-plated pieces, as the base metal might trigger reactions.
  • Consider Personal Sensitivities: Take your past experiences with metal allergies into account, and choose materials that are less likely to cause irritation.
  • Look for Certifications: Choose jewelry that has been certified hypoallergenic by reputable organizations, ensuring it meets safety standards for sensitive skin.
  • Test Before Wearing: If unsure, conduct a patch test by wearing the jewelry on a small area of skin and monitoring for reactions.
  • Mind the Design: Choose pieces with smooth edges and polished finishes to minimize irritation.
  • Solid Gold vs. Gold Plated

    When selecting hypoallergenic jewelry, solid gold is often the safer choice compared to gold plated pieces. Gold plated jewelry may not be hypoallergenic for everyone due to the base metal beneath the plating, solid gold jewelry, particularly those made from high-quality materials like 18k or 24k gold, tends to be hypoallergenic.

    Explore our guide on distinguishing between gold plated, gold vermeil, and solid gold to make an informed decision about your hypoallergenic jewelry options.

    AURÉV's Essential Hypoallergenic Pieces

    At AURÉV, we exclusively use 18k solid gold in our pieces, renowned for its durability and timeless appeal. Through rigorous testing processes, we guarantee that our gold is free from nickel and brass, ensuring that our jewelry options are not only stylish but also safe for sensitive skin, making it a truly timeless investment.

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