Recently, news about "inferior silver jewelry containing excessive levels of heavy metals" has sparked widespread discussion online. Many reports indicate that a large number of jewelry items labeled as "pure silver" have been seized on the market, but are actually made of inferior alloys with seriously excessive levels of heavy metals such as lead and nickel. Long-term wear can not only cause skin redness and allergies, but may even pose a risk of cancer.
Upon seeing these news reports, many silver jewelry enthusiasts couldn't help but worry: "Is the silver jewelry I'm wearing safe?" and "Why do some silver pieces cost only tens of dollars, while others cost hundreds?"
As a brand focused on high-quality silver jewelry, MYSOUL@inthewood___ feels it has a responsibility to clarify the truth. In fact, genuine sterling silver is an internationally recognized "safe metal," and the problem lies with those ** "imposters ** .
1. What is "toxic silver jewelry"? (The true face of fake sterling silver)
The "problematic silver jewelry" mentioned in the news is usually not genuine silver.
- The truth about the material: Most of them use inexpensive copper or iron alloys as a base.
- Excessive heavy metals: To make these cheap metals look like silver and add weight and texture, unscrupulous manufacturers add lead and ... Nickel .
- nickel: It is the most common allergen and can easily cause contact dermatitis (redness, itching, and rashes).
- lead: It is a toxic heavy metal that can damage the nervous system with long-term exposure and is extremely harmful to the human body.
- Electroplating camouflage: Finally, a very thin layer of silver is electroplated on the surface. When you first buy it, it looks brand new, but after wearing it for a short time, the electroplating layer wears off, and the inferior copper and toxic substances inside will come into direct contact with your skin.
This is why some people develop skin ulcers after wearing so-called "silver jewelry" —because what you're wearing isn't silver at all!
2. Why is genuine S925 sterling silver safe?
Unlike inferior alloys , silver has been used in medicine and tableware since ancient times, possessing natural antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties.
- International standard: S925 sterling silver refers to silver with a content of 92.5% , and the remaining 7.5% is usually copper (to increase hardness for shaping), and it contains absolutely no lead or nickel .
- Body reaction: Genuine sterling silver is very skin-friendly and is the safest material after pure gold and platinum. It is very suitable for sensitive skin and is even recommended to wear sterling silver earrings when you first get your ears pierced to help them heal.
3. Our commitment: We insist on using pure silver throughout.
We deeply understand that jewelry is worn close to the body, and safety is our bottom line. In response to the chaos in the market, we insist on taking a different path:
- Solid Silver throughout : We do not sell Our jewelry is made entirely of S925 sterling silver, inside and out. Even if it wears down over time, the silver inside will still be visible, and it will never "fade and turn into copper".
- Peace of mind promise: Our products are rigorously selected to be free from the harmful effects of lead and nickel. You can wear them daily with peace of mind, even while showering (please take care to keep them dry) without worrying about skin allergies.
4. How to distinguish between real and fake? Here are 3 simple self-test tips.
- See the marker: Legitimate silver jewelry will always be engraved with... S925 The steel stamp.
- Observe oxidation: Genuine silver will naturally oxidize and turn yellow or black when exposed to air for a long time; this is a normal phenomenon and can be restored to its bright white color with a silver polishing cloth . If the jewelry turns red or bronze and the color cannot be wiped off, it is a fake, revealing its "copper base."
- Listen to the sound: Pure silver is relatively soft and makes a dull "tap-tap" sound when dropped on the ground; while alloys usually produce a sharp and crisp sound.
Jewelry is meant to enhance life, not become a burden on health. When choosing silver jewelry, don't be misled by low prices. You get what you pay for; choosing sterling silver is not only choosing beauty, but also choosing peace of mind and protection for yourself and your family.
Looking for safe, hypoallergenic sterling silver jewelry? Browse our website to explore more! Our Korean-made, handcrafted 925 sterling silver custom engraving series offers unique gifts for your loved ones!