Say Goodbye to Earring Allergies: A Breakdown of Earring Materials

Earrings are arguably the most noticeable pieces of all jewellery.

Classic hoop earrings or elegant dangling tassel earrings are indispensable accessories for those pursuing style, but many people refrain from getting their ears pierced due to allergies or find it uncomfortable to wear earrings for extended periods. The disappointment of not being able to wear beautiful earrings is understandable.

So, how should you choose earring materials?

Is medical-grade steel or 925 sterling silver better? Which earring materials are less likely to cause allergies? How can you choose earring materials to avoid allergic reactions?
 

I. Why Jewelry Causes Allergies

Before discussing materials, let's talk about the possible reasons for allergies.

1.Contact with Allergenic Metals

Metal allergies occur when metals come into contact with sweat on the skin, dissolving into ions. These metal ions may interact with proteins in the body, becoming allergens.

Earring allergies affect up to 80% of the population in metal contact dermatitis. Although earrings have traditionally been considered women's jewellery, more men are wearing them nowadays. Earrings, passing through ear piercings, are more likely than other jewellery to allow blood cells to come into contact with metals, leading to what is known as contact metal allergy.

Every time you wear earrings, they come into contact with sweat, so after removing them, remember to wipe them dry with a cloth before storing them. Taiwan's humid climate makes metals highly susceptible to oxidation. Storing earrings in ziplock bags helps block air, preventing dirt or oxidation due to prolonged non-use, thus preventing allergies. Earrings that don't usually cause allergies may suddenly cause itching. In such cases, clean the earring posts thoroughly.

2. Presence of Other Allergens on Metal Surfaces

Besides metals themselves, dust and dirt are common allergens. All metals oxidize, and ear posts left in the air for a long time may accumulate dust, mites, or other allergens.

Proper care and storage of earrings are crucial.

1. Pure Gold/Gold Fill Earrings

Pure gold (24k Gold) is the most stable metal globally, making earrings made of precious metals the safest choice for many allergy-prone individuals. However, precious metals come with a higher price tag.

2. Sterling Silver Earrings

Sterling silver is another precious metal. Although it tends to oxidize and turn black in Taiwan's humid climate, with proper care, it is still an excellent jewelry material. Sterling silver earrings, typically composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, are a preferred choice for allergy-resistant earrings.

III. Materials Used by OYJ

To ensure that every beauty-conscious and allergy-prone individual can wear earrings comfortably, OYJ has made considerable efforts.

3. Gold Fill Earrings

Gold fill is a popular material in Europe and America. Unlike electroplating, which attaches ions to the metal surface, gold fill involves a high-pressure coating of 14K gold onto a silver-copper alloy surface. The thickness and stability of the gold layer in gold-fill earrings are higher than conventional electroplating, making them more durable and less prone to oxidation.

3. Nickel-Free Plating

OYJ uses European standard nickel-free plating, making it safe for those allergic to nickel in electroplated jewelry. The plating layer is thicker, making it more durable.

Editor | Olivia

珠寶設計師 / 品牌創辦人 / 會計師 / 旅遊狂熱者，有著不安於室的反骨靈魂，把自小的興趣變成終身職業，從會計師轉換跑道變成珠寶設計師，成立自己的同名品牌，用輕珠寶打動女性的心，現在在全球已經有超過 20 個國際通路可以看到 OLIVIA YAO JEWELLERY，也讓每位有夢想的女性看到更多生活方式的可能。