How to Tell if Your Jewelry Is Nickel-Free (Even If It’s Not Labeled)
Let’s be real: nothing ruins a cute outfit faster than red, itchy ears or a rash from your earrings. 😩 If you’ve got sensitive skin, chances are nickel is the sneaky culprit. But what if your jewelry doesn’t say whether it’s nickel-free? Here’s how to find out before you wear it and how to shop smarter moving forward.
Look for Labels Like “Nickel-Free” or “Hypoallergenic”
This might sound obvious, but it’s your first line of defense.
Brands that care about your skin (like us!) will clearly say if their jewelry is nickel-free, hypoallergenic, or made for sensitive ears. If there’s no info listed? That’s a red flag 🚩.
✅ All Lauren Riley Jewelry crystal pieces are nickel-free unless otherwise stated in the listing. We got you, sensitive skin babes. 💕
✅ All Lauren Riley Jewelry silver and 18k gold pieces are nickel-free!💕
Know the Safe Metals
If it doesn’t say "nickel-free," flip the script and focus on what it’s made of instead.
Nickel-safe metals include:
✨ Surgical-grade stainless steel (316L)
✨ Titanium
✨ Niobium
✨ 14k+ solid gold
✨ Sterling silver (check for "925")
✨ Gold PVD plating over stainless steel (💎 hello, LRJ waterproof pieces!)
Metals to be cautious with:
⚠️ “Mixed metals” (super vague)
⚠️ Unlabeled fashion jewelry
⚠️ Cheap alloy blends
Use a Nickel Test Kit
Yes, these exist and yes, they actually work.
A nickel spot test costs under $20 on Amazon and gives you results in minutes. Just swab the jewelry with the solution. If it turns pink? Boom... nickel detected.
🔬 Pro tip: Test jewelry backs, clasps, or anything that touches your skin directly.
Ask the Brand Directly
If you’re shopping from a small business 🙋, don’t be afraid to message them!
A trustworthy brand will gladly tell you what materials they use and if they dodge the question or say “we’re not sure,” that’s your sign to bounce.
Pay Attention to How Your Skin Reacts
If a pair of earrings gives you a rash, don’t ignore it.
Skin sensitivity can develop over time, and even if something didn’t bother you before, it might now. Keep notes on which metals your skin loves (and which ones it does not tolerate).
Final Thoughts
Jewelry should never hurt and you deserve to wear pieces that feel just as good as they look.
Stick with trusted brands, read those labels, and when in doubt? Ask questions. Your skin will thank you (and you’ll look amazing while doing it 😉).
💌 P.S. Every piece in the Water-Resistant & Tarnish-Free collection is hypoallergenic and nickel-free; made to shine without irritation. Ready to find your perfect piece?