Are Brass Earrings Safe? Guide to Hypoallergenic Jewelry
An estimated 70 per cent of fashion jewelry earrings incorporates brass, especially mid-range and costume jewelry – but are brass earrings safe? When curating a quality jewelry collection, it is essential to consider the quality and safety of the materials used. Brass, with its gold-like sheen, often appears in fashion jewelry. However, it carries potential risks, especially for those with sensitive skin or metal allergies.
This guide explores the composition of brass earrings and discusses key considerations for those with sensitive skin. We’ll also highlight high-quality, stylish alternatives that prioritise both elegance and skin health. Continue reading to make informed, refined choices for your jewelry collection.
What Are Brass Earrings Made Of?
Many of the issues that arise from the question ‘are brass earrings safe?’ originate from its composition and allergens.
Brass is an alloy predominantly composed of 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc. The metal alloy imparts an attractive gold-like sheen at an accessible price, rendering it a favoured choice for fashion jewelry. Its inherent malleability facilitates ease of crafting, making it ideal for mass production in costume jewelry pieces.
Nevertheless, this affordability is not without its drawbacks. Brass jewelry can occasionally contain trace amounts of other metals, such as nickel.
Nickel is known to be a common allergen and may induce allergic reactions, skin irritation, or discolouration. This is particularly relevant in lower-grade items where nickel content may not be explicitly listed.
Brass Reactions and Safety Concerns
COPPER OXIDATION – THE GREEN SKIN EFFECT
Brass earrings tend to react with air, sweat, and moisture due to their copper content. When exposed to oxygen, the copper oxidises, forming copper oxide, which can turn your skin green. This effect is particularly noticeable in humid conditions when sweat accelerates the reaction.
Even gold-plated brass jewelry will eventually expose the brass underneath as the thin layer of gold wears off. Thus, when buying high-quality earrings, it’s essential to consider the materials used, as these directly impact the safety and durability of your jewelry.
HIGH REACTIVITY
Copper oxidises faster than precious metals like gold or silver due to its higher reactivity.
Conversely, precious metals like pure gold or pure silver have more stable atomic structures, making them less likely to react with air or moisture. This stability means they require less maintenance and don’t tarnish or corrode as easily as brass.
NICKEL REACTION
Additionally, brass earrings can contain nickel, which is known to cause contact dermatitis and nickel allergies in some people. When nickel comes into prolonged contact with sensitive skin, it can cause redness, itching, and swelling, making it unsuitable for those prone to skin irritation.
In terms of jewelry types, brass is commonly found in costume jewelry—including drop earrings, leverback earrings, and other everyday wear. However, these types of earrings are more likely to corrode over time, especially when exposed to sweat, water, or the natural oils from your skin.
Hypoallergenic Alternatives to Brass Earrings
Now we have addressed ‘are brass earrings safe?’ – consider safer alternatives to brass earrings. Focus on hypoallergenic materials that support skin health. The most common causes of earlobe irritation are piecing infections and contact metal allergies—specifically to nickel, copper and cobalt.
The best earrings for sensitive skin are made from hypoallergenic materials like 14k gold or higher, sterling silver, titanium, and platinum. These precious metals are often used for fine jewelry or high-quality demi-fine jewelry (a mix between fine and costume jewelry).
They offer safety, durability, and long-term value, making them worth the investment. Unlike brass, fine metals resist tarnishing and corrosion, while retaining their lustre over time. Additionally, they are hypoallergenic, which makes them safer for extended wear, particularly for earrings. Though more expensive, their ability to protect sensitive skin and ensure lasting quality adds significant value.
Let’s now explore some of the best safer alternatives to brass earrings, focusing on materials that balance safety and durability with respect to cost.
For an elegant yet hypoallergenic option, consider pearl jewelry. Check out our Guide to Pearl Jewelry for more on choosing timeless, skin-friendly pieces.
Sterling Silver 925
Sterling silver reactivity
Precious metal, sterling silver 925, is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (typically copper). Sterling silver is hypoallergenic and much safer for sensitive skin than brass. Its high silver content makes it chemically stable and less reactive, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
Brass, on the other hand, contains a higher percentage of copper, which reacts with moisture and can turn skin green. While the small amount of copper in sterling silver adds hardness and durability, it doesn’t compromise its lustre or safety. This makes sterling silver an ideal choice for daily wear earrings with minimal risk of adverse reactions.
925 Stamp
Opt for certified Sterling Silver 925 for guaranteed purity and safety. Compared to other sterling silver, which may have a lower purity percentage, sterling silver 925 is both safer for sensitive skin and longer-lasting.
Genuine sterling silver earrings are stamped with 925 or ‘sterling’ such as in the Tiffany & Co example below from their Nike collaboration.
Note on Silver Tarnishing
Sterling silver can indeed wear down over time and turn black due to a process called tarnishing, which happens when silver reacts with sulfur compounds in the air, forming silver sulfide.
Prevent tarnishing by storing your silver jewelry in airtight bags. Clean it regularly with a silver polishing cloth, and avoid exposure to humidity, chemicals, or perfumes.
Rhodium plating on sterling silver can also help prevent tarnish and prolong the jewellery’s shine. Rhodium is less likely to cause allergic reactions than brass because it is a hypoallergenic metal that does not contain nickel or copper, common irritants found in brass.
Gold (14k or higher)
Gold Jewelry as a Hypoallergenic Alternative to Brass Earrings
When asking “are brass earrings safe?”, it’s essential to explore safer, long-lasting alternatives like gold jewelry. Gold is one of the least reactive metals, making it a prime choice for hypoallergenic jewelry like gold pendants and earrings, made from pure gold, white gold, or rose gold.
While brass tarnishes over time due to its high copper content, the surface of gold jewelry tends to remain free from oxidation or tarnishing. Therefore, gold retains its brilliance over time with less frequent maintenance.
Higher karat values (14k and above) are less likely to cause skin irritation due to their lower percentage of mixed metals like nickel or copper, which are known to trigger allergies.
24k vs. 18k vs. 14k Gold for Sensitive Ears
- 24k Gold (100% pure) is the softest and most hypoallergenic due to its lack of alloys. However, it’s impractically soft for daily wear, easily scratching and bending.
- 18k Gold (75% gold) offers better skin safety with fewer alloys. While it’s less prone to allergies, it’s still more malleable and more susceptible to scratches than lower-karat options.
- 14k Gold (58.3% gold) strikes a perfect balance between durability and hypoallergenic properties, offering good scratch resistance and affordability. This makes it a top choice for those seeking both safe, everyday wear and a more accessible price point than higher karats.
- Gold Vermeil consists of a sterling silver base coated with a thicker gold layer (at least 2.5 microns), is a more affordable alternative to solid gold. While it won’t last as long as solid gold, it offers better durability and hypoallergenic benefits compared to brass or standard gold-plated jewelry. Typically lasting a few months to years before wearing down, it’s a quality choice for those wanting the look of gold without the high cost.
Avoid gold-plated jewelry. At just 0.5 microns thick, it isn’t a reliable alternative to brass earrings. The thin gold layer quickly wears off, exposing the base metal underneath, which often contains irritants like nickel. It may tarnish within months. Particularly with frequent wear, it is unsuitable for sensitive skin.
Essential Click Small Hoops Earrings
Monica Vinader’s craftsmanship focuses on contemporary, minimalist designs with streamlined, clean lines. The brand uses gold vermeil and sterling silver.
Monica Vinader offers a range of gold earrings, including gold vermeil pieces like the Essential Click Small Hoop Earrings, which feature a thick layer of 18k gold over sterling silver for durable finish. Their jewelry resists tarnishing and oxidation, maintaining its shine without causing skin discolouration.
Monica Vinader operates as a direct-to-consumer brand, allowing them to offer high-quality pieces at accessible prices. They also provide a 5-year warranty on all their jewelry, covering replating, repairs, and free resizing with valid proof of purchase.
DAVID YURMAN – 18K SOLID GOLD EXCELLENCE
For a 18k solid gold option, David Yurman is a renowned luxury jeweller in the United States. Established in 1980, David Yurman is celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and intricate artistry. The brand’s 18k gold earrings exemplify luxurious materials and meticulous detailing. Yurman’s signature cable motifs and gemstone settings reflect a timeless elegance, showcasing a level of craftsmanship that sets the brand apart. Their 18k gold pieces are particularly notable for their hypoallergenic properties, making them a refined choice for those seeking both durability and sophistication. David Yurman’s commitment to quality and artistry is evident in every piece, ensuring that their jewelry remains a symbol of luxury and enduring style.
David Yurman’s Sculpted Cable Micro Huggie Hoop Earrings in 18k yellow gold offer exceptional value for money with their elegant, small design and mid-range price. These earrings deliver the luxury of 18k gold at a more accessible price point. For those seeking larger styles, David Yurman also offers premium-priced 18k gold earrings that provide a more substantial statement.
Key take-away on gold jewelry
Invest in gold, especially in 14k or 18k, to strike a balance between safety, health, and longevity. These pieces will better protect against skin reactions whilst ensuring durability. Alternatively, gold vermeil is a more accessible option.
Platinum
Platinum is an incredibly strong and durable metal. Known for its dense composition, platinum is heavier and highly resistant to scratches and deformation. Its natural strength and lustrous appearance, which doesn’t fade or tarnish over time, make it an ideal choice for sensitive skin and long-lasting jewelry like earrings.
With a purity level of around 95%, platinum is hypoallergenic and maintains its shine with minimal upkeep.
Platinum earrings tend to start around $500 due to the metal’s rarity and premium quality. Boodles, a renowned London-based jeweller, specialises in platinum jewellery that remains virtually unblemished over decades.
Surgical Stainless Steel (316L)
Surgical-grade stainless steel, while not as prestigious as gold or platinum, offers an affordable yet durable choice for hypoallergenic earrings. It is commonly used for ear wires and other jewelry components that come into direct contact with the skin.
Its corrosion-resistant chromium oxide layer ensures safe wear for those with sensitive ears who experience irritation from brass. Unsurprisingly, they are a popular choice for hypoallergenic jewelry.
Studex jewelry for sensitive ears
The brand Studex specialises in hypoallergenic jewelry. The band offers a variety of sterilised, surgical-grade stainless steel earrings designed for sensitive ears.
Their earrings, such as those in the Sensitive Collection, are made from high-quality materials like 316L surgical stainless steel. They provide an affordable yet durable alternative to brass when considering the concerns surrounding ‘are brass earrings safe?’.
The corrosion-resistant chromium oxide layer ensures safe wear, preventing irritation commonly caused by metals like brass.
Titanium
Titanium earrings are a lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic alternative to brass earrings. Known for being nickel-free, titanium is ideal for sensitive ears, causing minimal irritation. Unlike brass, titanium doesn’t tarnish or corrode, offering long-lasting quality with low maintenance. Its density is much lower than brass, making it more comfortable for extended wear.
While typically more expensive than brass, titanium earrings are still affordable. Source a pair of pure medical grade titanium (silver, golden, black, or natural colours available) earrings from specialty jewelry stores, Blomdahl.
Proper Care and Storage for Long-Lasting Jewelry
Proper care
Ensure proper care to maintain the longevity and hypoallergenic properties of your jewelry. For hypoallergenic earrings made from materials like sterling silver, titanium, or surgical steel, gently cleanse them with a soft cloth and rinse with warm water to preserve their shine and cleanliness.
Storage
Store these pieces in a cool, dry place, ideally in a lined jewelry box or soft pouch to avoid scratches. Brass earrings, which are prone to tarnishing, require extra care—keeping them in air-tight containers or pouches will minimise exposure to moisture and air, preventing oxidation.
Are brass earrings safe in humid conditions? No – avoid storing any jewelry in humid environments, as this accelerates tarnishing and wear.
Choosing high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry is a simple way to enhance your appearance. Learn more about creating a refined look in our Guide to Dressing Elegantly on a Budget, which includes tips on dress sense and accessories.
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