At a recent show, a customer asked me whether my jewelry (mainly earrings) is hypo-allergenic. She mentioned that she breaks out when she wears jewelry that isn’t 14k gold, surgical steel or nickel free. I briefly explained the types of metals that are used in my jewelry to help her determine whether or not she could wear them. To my dismay, she could not wear any of my jewelry due to her allergy. After the show I found myself wondering, “Why can some people with jewelry allergies wear metals such as sterling silver without irritation, while others can’t?”

In an effort to better understand jewelry allergies, I did some additional research. In a nutshell, people who suffer from contact dermatitis (an allergic reaction when in contact with certain metals) are most commonly allergic to nickel. Depending on the severity of a person’s allergy, they may be able to wear certain levels of nickel without irritation…or they may not. 

The terminology used in regards to precious metals can be confusing. So, here is a list of terms you may run into, and then you can decide what metal is right for you:

Yellow gold - Generally speaking, 14k or higher solid gold will not cause allergic reactions and is virtually nickel free. For extremely sensitive allergy sufferers, this may be the only option.

White gold - The alloys used in white gold and the chemicals used to make it white can contain nickel and can therefore cause allergic reactions more often than yellow gold.

Gold filled - Gold filled metal is created by covering a base metal (such as copper) with layers of actual gold using heat and pressure. Gold filled findings usually have many layers of gold, creating a virtually hypoallergenic material.

Gold Plated - This is the same thing as gold filled, only the layer of gold is much thinner. Allergic reactions may occur more often to this type of metal versus gold filled.

Silver Plated - A base metal is covered with a thin layer of silver. Again, allergic reactions may occur more often with this type of metal.

Sterling silver - 92.5% pure silver (.925) mixed with copper to achieve a hardness and stability level that will hold its shape and resist wear and tear. Generally, sterling silver is a great metal choice for people who are allergic to nickel.

Copper - Pure copper is not mixed with nickel or nickel alloys making it a hypoallergenic material.

Stainless/surgical steel - Steel alloys do contain a certain amount of nickel, however some people with nickel allergies can wear jewelry made from stainless/surgical steel without any problems.

In conclusion, all Natural Beauty Jewelry earrings are made using either sterling silver or gold filled ear wires. The majority of the findings found in my bracelets and necklaces are sterling silver and/or gold filled as well. As of the date of this post, a select few designs contain silver plated or base metal components. Please be sure to read the product information for each piece.

Knowing what necklace length is right for you can be hard to determine. Depending on your size, different necklaces may fall in completely different locations on you than on other women.

I recommend measuring the distance around your neck to know what your minimum is and then trying on standard sizes from there to get an idea of what is comfortable for you.

If you need an uncommon necklace length, we are happy to custom size Natural Beauty Jewelry when possible to accomodate your needs. Depending on the extent to which you need a size altered from its original, additional fees may apply. Just email us at info@naturalbeautyjewelry.com to request custom sizing options and information.

Below is a visual aid of the common necklace lengths that are available in the marketplace and the general area where they typically lay.

Do you have trouble getting your fingers to maneuver that tiny lobster clasp? Sick of asking another person to put on your necklace or bracelet for you? A magnetic clasp is just what you need!

 If you would like to order your Natural Beauty Jewelry with a magnetic clasp instead of a lobster clasp please contact us before ordering and we will assist you in placing your order. Magnetic clasps are silver plated or gold plated only, additional charges may apply.

Pictured jewelry: Peach Moonstone, Coin Pearls and Turquoise Bracelet

Want to wear more jewelry? Don’t know where to start? Here are a few tips on how to get started. I have pulled together a list of pieces that should be included in every woman’s jewelry collection:

1) Pendant Necklace - A pendant necklace is versatile and can add a sturdy focal point to many ensembles.

2) Cuff Bracelets- These are easy to mix and match. Silver cuff bracelets accent your everyday jewelry magnificently!

3) Pearls - Available in many different lengths, pearls are the perfect touch of class and sophistication that is always in style.

4) Long/linear Earrings - The eye is naturally attracted to geometric lines and angles. Long earrings catch the eye and add an flattering element to any outfit.

5) Chunky Ring- Who doesn’t appreciate an over sized cocktail ring? Whether it is made of turquoise, black onyx or citrine, at least one is necessary.

6) Charm Bracelet - Charm bracelets add a little funk to your attire, whether it be full of your own hand picked charms or a fun thing to look at throughout the day.

7) Long Chain Necklace - Long chains can compliment the many outfits of your life and lengthen your overall appearance. Try mixing and matching silver and gold long chain necklaces for a new twist.

8) Diamond Studs - Classic, beautiful and forever a staple. Try wearing diamond studs with your more complicated jewelry pieces. They will make sure that you don’t look too “over-done”!

Is there a jewelry piece that is missing from this list? Just click on the above title of this blog posting to leave a comment.

Do you have jewelry that you would love to wear except it is just a little bit too small for you? An easy and convenient solution is to purchase a chain extender that can be attached to any necklace or bracelet to make it larger. Depending on how much larger you want to make that piece of jewelry, you can purchase a 1″, 2″ or 3″ chain extender from Natural Beauty Jewelry and simply attach it to the clasp as pictured below. These chain extenders are sterling silver and easy to use! 

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Don’t you love that new jewelry shine? As we all know, over time our jewelry begins to show signs of wear and tear. Here are some simple steps you can take to preserve your jewelry’s look and feel.

1. It is normal for sterling silver jewelry to tarnish slightly over time. In order to minimize tarnishing, always keep your jewelry in an air tight container or zip lock bag when not in use. If available, an anti-tarnish strip can be kept in the bag with the jewelry to aid in keeping it looking shiny and new.
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