Shining Bright Without the Nickel: Your Guide to Nickel-Free Jewellery

Oh, back to where it all began.

I'm almost 100% sure that my 9ct gold wedding ring was what started my dyshidrotic eczema to my palms.

It began with a small rash to here the band touch the skin, and even when I removed it the eczema kept spreading.

My theory is that it triggered my systemic allergy and I then in turn started reacting to nickel in foods.

Today, we're delving into a world where fashion meets function: nickel-free jewellery. If you've ever had a rash from your favourite necklace or a pair of earrings, chances are you reacted to nickel, a common allergen. But don't let this get you down! With the rise of nickel-free options, you can keep sparkling without the skin irritations.

It has often been hypothesized that systemic nickel allergy begins when a person gets their ears pierced, exposing the body to a prolonged and internal dose of continuous nickel, this is one of the reasons nickel allergy is much higher for females.

Why Nickel-Free?

Nickel is often mixed with other metals to produce cost-effective jewellery. However, for a significant number of people, prolonged skin contact with nickel can lead to allergic reactions. Enter nickel-free jewellery, a saviour for sensitive skin. Designed without this pesky metal, these pieces allow everyone to accessorize freely.

Best Nickel-Free Jewellery Options:

1. Stainless Steel: Not all stainless steel is created equal. Some contain nickel, but many high-quality stainless steel jewellery pieces are nickel-free and offer a sleek, modern appearance.

2. Sterling Silver: Comprising mostly of silver mixed with copper or other metals, authentic sterling silver is naturally nickel-free. Look for a "925" stamp, indicating it’s made of 92.5% pure silver.

3. Gold: Higher karat gold, like 18K or 24K, typically contains little to no nickel. Be cautious with white gold, though, as it can sometimes be alloyed with nickel. Opt for palladium alloyed white gold if you're allergic.

4. Titanium: This metal is as strong as it is safe. Hypoallergenic and naturally nickel-free, titanium offers a beautiful silver hue that doesn’t tarnish.

5. Platinum: A luxurious option, platinum is durable, pure, and naturally hypoallergenic.

6. Copper: While some people are allergic to copper, many are not. Pure copper jewelry can be a beautiful and rustic nickel-free option.

7. Zinc Alloy: In its pure form, zinc is safe for most people with nickel allergies. However, ensure that the alloy (blend of metals) does not contain any nickel.

Caring for Your Nickel-Free Jewellery:

Even if your jewellery is nickel-free, it's essential to care for it to prolong its life:

1. Store in a Dry Place: Moisture can tarnish even the finest of metals. Keep your jewellery in a dry environment.

2. Regular Cleaning: Using a gentle cloth or appropriate cleaning solution can keep your pieces shining bright.

3. Avoid Chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, and other chemicals can react with metals. Put on your jewellery after applying these products.

Nickel-free jewellery not only protects sensitive skin but also represents a move towards conscious consumption in the fashion world. With more brands embracing the nickel-free ethos and with numerous metal options available, it's clear that style doesn’t have to come at the expense of comfort.

Remember, it's always best to invest in quality pieces, especially if you wear them daily. After all, jewellery is an expression of who you are – and you deserve the very best!