Those of us who have sensitive skin are easily affected by coming in contact with substances that cause the majority of people no problems at all. This is especially true of products that make direct contact with our skin - like lingerie and jewelry. Allergic reactions and contact dermatitis associated with jewelry occur most commonly with the metals cobalt and nickel. Nickel especially is commonly found in less expensive jewelry because of its production ease, durability and high shine. Nickel however can dissolve with water - think sweat - and rub into your skin. Copper is another less expensive metal and its oxidation process can cause skin to turn green. Silver also contains small amounts of copper, which adversely affects people with acidic skin chemistry.
If you aren’t investing in high karat gold jewelry right now, or platinum, or gold plated jewelry with a sterling silver base - vermeil - then opt for hypoallergenic metals including stainless steel, alloys that contain zinc (Tibetan silver) or palladium, titanium and niobium.
I opt to use niobium in Sumaris earrings, because it isn’t an alloy - its a pure metal. Niobium - Nb on the periodic table - is a rare earth metal. It will also turn beautiful rainbow shades when an electric current is passed through it.
Check out the SUMARIS collection of statement earrings made with niobium ear wires - our earring description will specify the metal used.
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