Jewelry for Sensitive Skin: Which Metals Are Safe?
Green finger, red earlobes, itchy rash — metal allergy is more common than you think. This guide from a jewelry factory lists the safest metals and which to avoid.
What causes the reaction?
Most jewelry reactions are caused by nickel, which is mixed into gold to harden it. When sweat dissolves nickel, it touches the skin and triggers contact dermatitis. Cheap fashion jewelry plated in nickel is the usual culprit.
The safest metals, ranked
Medical-grade titanium and niobium are fully hypoallergenic. 14K+ solid gold (especially white gold that has been re-rhodium plated recently) and platinum are also safe for most people. Avoid plated jewelry, nickel silver, and low-karat gold (9K and below).
| Metal | Nickel content | Sensitive-skin rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platinum | None | Excellent | Daily rings, earrings |
| 14K+ solid gold | Low | Very good | Everyday wear |
| Titanium / Niobium | None | Best | Ear piercing, severe allergy |
| Gold-plated brass | High | Avoid | Short-term fashion only |
Tips to prevent reactions
Remove jewelry before swimming or showering, keep the skin dry, and re-plate worn pieces. Our solid-gold pieces are designed for daily wear — browse rings and earrings. Need a hypoallergenic custom piece? Message us on WhatsApp.
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Get a Free Quote Chat on WhatsAppFrequently Asked Questions
Is 14K white gold hypoallergenic?
Usually yes. The nickel is alloyed and sealed under rhodium plating. If you react, switch to platinum or rose/yellow gold.
Why do my ears turn green?
Copper in the alloy reacting with sweat. Solid gold or platinum studs avoid this.
Can I wear gold-filled jewelry with allergies?
Gold-filled has a thick gold layer and is safer than plated, but severe nickel allergies should choose platinum or titanium.