We use different metals in our handmade jewelry. These metals may include a combination of gold, silver, copper, zinc, or iron. Metals have different reactions to exposure to air, oils, chemicals, and moisture over time. These reactions may change the appearance of these metals.
Copper
Copper-filled jewelry metals are copper-based and plated with a thin layer of another metal, like gold or rhodium. Copper does oxidize, which can cause some jewelry to temporarily turn skin green. This discoloration happens when the skin is exposed to parts of jewelry where the metal plating has worn off. Copper is also non-ferrous (does not contain iron), so it is not magnetic.
Brass
Brass jewelry can be made of either raw or plated brass. It is an alloy of 70% copper and 30% zinc. While it is corrosion-resistant (due to the zinc), it still has the potential to oxidize (due to the copper). Brass is non-ferrous (does not contain iron), so it is not magnetic.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel jewelry is typically silver but can be plated or chemically treated to add color. It does not tarnish or corrode. Since it is ferrous (contains iron), it is magnetic. There are several grades of stainless steel.
304 grade is an alloy of chromium, nickel, carbon, and iron. 304L grade has lower carbon content and higher nickel content. This grade is heavily used in men’s jewelry.
430 grade contains less than .75% nickel.
316 and 316L grades are surgical but contain 8% nickel when used in jewelry.
Bronze
Bronze is an alloy of copper, tin, and zinc. Due to its copper content, it can oxidize, which can cause some bronze jewelry to temporarily turn skin green. This discoloration happens when the skin is exposed to parts of jewelry where the metal plating has worn off. It’s non-ferrous (does not contain iron), so it is not magnetic.
Iron
Iron jewelry is typically plated with thin layers of other metals. It can corrode when exposed to oxygen, creating rust. Iron is ferrous so it is magnetic.
Rhodium
Rhodium is a durable and rare metal. It is corrosion-resistant and does not oxidize. In jewelry, rhodium is plated over base metals for durability and luster.
Nickel is a low-cost metal that blends with other metals to make them more durable and shiny. It is found in many metals, including precious metals.
The “Nickel-Free” label on jewelry can refer to just the plating, or both the plating and the fill metal. The European Union has defined the amount of nickel that can be present in jewelry. They’ve also provided guidelines for use of “nickel-free” and “hypoallergenic” labels. However, there are currently no regulations in the United States on the maximum amount of nickel jewelry must contain to use the labels “nickel-free” or “hypoallergenic”.
At Punctuation, we source components that are described by our suppliers as nickel-safe or nickel-free. While we trust our partners and suppliers, we are aware of the inconsistencies in regulations and labeling and want to be as transparent as possible.
While our products are made with nickel-free metals, use caution before purchasing any items made of metal. If you have, or believe that you have, a metal allergy, consult a medical professional before purchasing or wearing our jewelry.