What is nickel and what is it used for?

Nickel is a hard white shiny metal mined mainly in Canada and Russia. It has non-corrosive properties which makes it a very popular material in many industries - stainless steel being the most common source.

Where is nickel used in Jewellery?

All Time to Indulge jewellery is Nickel Safe

On the surface of items to give the smooth, bright surface onto which Gold is then plated.
In the 'surgical steel' used to make the earring post - surgical steel has up to 10% nickel.
In the earring back - the shiny white face that actually touches the ear is made from it.
In the decorative gold itself which can contain up to 4% nickel to make the gold harder.
In the fastening and pins used on brooches which can be as much as 30% nickel.
In the base of the metal earring, necklace or bracelet.

What effect does nickel have?

It causes an allergic reaction in the skin - initially around the contact site - and can spread to the face and hands. The initial symptoms of sore and 'hot' ears can eventually lead to infected 'weepy' ears. Around 30% of women suffer with this problem to some degree.

How does the nickel get in?

Microscopic particles of nickel called ions pass through the skin and into the flesh. Its rate of flow is affected by the body fluids that are in contact with the nickel. Once the ear becomes weepy and infected, the rate of absorption increases. Warm weather is another factor.

Doesn't the gold stop it?

It would take a coating of gold at least 10 times thicker than currently used in plated jewellery to act as a complete barrier to nickel ions.

Why doesn't wearing clip-ons help?

Because it actually increases the area of skin contact with the nickel.

Are there degrees of sensitivity?

Yes. Many women are not affected at all. However, once affected, repeated use of nickel-bearing jewellery can accelerate the reaction. There are some women so sensitive that even the minutest trace of nickel causes an immediate allergic reaction.

If I am not nickel allergic, WILL I be?

Not necessarily - you may be one of the lucky ones...but why take that chance?

Is it only earrings that can cause the problem?

NO! It can be caused by ANY nickel contact with your skin - necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches etc.

How can I stop this allergy or prevent it from ever starting?

Wear Nickel Safe jewellery and prevent allergic reactions.

By avoiding the cause - NICKEL. There are only really two options:

Stop wearing jewellery!
Wear Nickel Safe jewellery!

ALL GOLD AND SILVER PLATED JEWELLERY FROM TIME TO INDULGE IS NICKEL SAFE.
We pride ourselves on our top quality stunning nickel safe affordable jewellery, proving that women no longer need to suffer to be fashionable!