NKFH is testing the heavy metal content of jewelry

In common parlance, “jewelry” is generally fashion jewelry made of non-precious metal or with only a very thin coating of precious metal: such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, brooches, anklets, etc. These jewelry – as products intended for consumers and coming into direct skin contact – may pose a high chemical and health risk, especially if their composition contains hazardous or restricted substances in unacceptable quantities. The products are widely distributed, often at low prices, a significant part of them originate from third countries, and are available primarily in stores operated in the Far East and on the Internet. All this justifies increased market surveillance and product safety controls.

Metal jewelry that comes into contact with the skin often causes contact allergies and eczema. Objects that come into direct or prolonged contact with the skin are particularly dangerous, as heavy metals can be released and absorbed through the skin. Therefore, the basic aim of the examination carried out by the Food and Chemical Laboratory of the NKFH is to filter out unsafe jewelry bracelets, necklaces and rings containing cadmium and lead.

Sampling, carried out by government agencies under the professional guidance of the NKFH, is carried out widely, from shopping malls, department stores, stores operated in the Far East, and online stores.

Based on the experience of previous laboratory tests, it is clearly justified to check the heavy metal content of jewelry: there are many metal products in contact with the skin on the market, the poorly chosen raw materials of which may contain toxic heavy metals in unacceptable amounts as components or impurities.

The NKFH and the government agencies under its professional guidance are taking decisive action for the safety of consumers and are taking the necessary official measures to withdraw dangerous products from the market.