Which Jewellery Metals Are Safe for You?
Find hypoallergenic options for sensitive skin — personalised recommendations
Your Allergy Symptoms
Select all symptoms you experience when wearing jewellery:
Sensitivity Quiz
Have you reacted to cheap fashion jewellery?
Do you have a diagnosed nickel allergy?
Do you have eczema or sensitive skin?
Do you react to watches or metal belt buckles?
Your Personalised Results
Recommended Metals for You
Use with Caution
Avoid
Complete Metal Safety Guide
24K / 22K Pure Gold
Extremely SafeHypoallergenic — no nickel, minimal alloys. The gold standard for sensitive skin. 24K is 99.9% pure; 22K is 91.6% pure gold.
18K Yellow Gold
Very SafeVery low alloy content. May contain trace copper/zinc. Rarely causes reactions in sensitive individuals.
18K White Gold
CautionOften contains nickel to achieve white colour. If you have nickel allergy, ask for rhodium-plated or palladium white gold.
Sterling Silver (925)
Generally Safe92.5% pure silver + 7.5% copper. Generally hypoallergenic. Very rarely causes reactions — usually from tarnish or nickel clasps.
Platinum
Extremely SafeNaturally hypoallergenic, dense, and does not tarnish. The best choice for extremely sensitive skin.
Palladium
Very SafeNickel-free white metal — excellent alternative to white gold. Lightweight and hypoallergenic.
Surgical Steel
Generally SafeSafe for most people when nickel-free (grade 316L). Check that the piece is explicitly labelled nickel-free.
Titanium
Very SafeExtremely biocompatible, used in medical implants. Lightweight and completely nickel-free. Very safe for sensitive skin.
Copper / Brass
AvoidCauses green skin discolouration (copper oxidation). Common allergen. Avoid if you have any skin sensitivity.
Nickel Silver
AvoidMisleading name — contains significant nickel despite "silver" label. Major allergen. Avoid if nickel-sensitive.
3 Buying Tips for Sensitive Skin
Always Ask for Nickel-Free Certification
Before buying any white gold or silver jewellery, ask the jeweller for written confirmation that the piece is nickel-free. Many reputable jewellers in India now stock certified hypoallergenic options.
Choose Rhodium-Plated White Gold
If you love the look of white gold but have sensitivity, ask for rhodium-plated pieces. Rhodium is hypoallergenic and creates a protective barrier between your skin and the gold alloy. Replating is needed every 1–2 years.
Opt for Higher Purity When Possible
The higher the karat, the less alloy content — and the lower the chance of a reaction. 22K gold (91.6% pure) is significantly safer than 14K (58.5% pure) for most people with metal sensitivities.
FAQ — Jewellery Metal Allergies
Nickel allergy is by far the most common. Nickel is used as an alloy in white gold, stainless steel, and many fashion jewellery pieces. It is estimated that 10–15% of people have some degree of nickel sensitivity. Symptoms include redness, itching, and rash.
Pure sterling silver (925) is generally safe as it contains copper, not nickel. However, some silver-plated items use nickel as the base metal, which can cause reactions. Always buy solid sterling silver, not silver-plated, for sensitive skin.
Yes, 22K (916) hallmarked gold is one of the safest metals for jewellery. With 91.6% pure gold and usually only copper as the remaining alloy, it is unlikely to cause allergic reactions in most people. 24K is even safer but too soft for most jewellery.
Green discolouration is caused by copper oxidation — the copper in the alloy reacts with sweat and skin oils to form copper chloride, which leaves a green residue. This happens commonly with brass or low-karat gold rings. It is harmless but indicates a high copper content.
Remove the jewellery immediately and wash the area with mild soap and water. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help with mild reactions. If symptoms are severe or persist, see a dermatologist. Consider patch testing before wearing new jewellery.