Toxic Chemicals in Cheap Jewelry

Several years ago I made a commitment to only buying handmade jewelry. I have done extremely well in that venture and I'm really proud of the collection I've amassed. I have unique pieces that I'm frequently asked about and it gives me a sense of satisfaction knowing that my money goes to  independent artists. I've also made an effort to share my love of handmade jewelry by making it a feature on my blog.

Recently, though, I was considering breaking down and going to the mall to stocking up on some inexpensive jewelry so that my options at home wouldn't be as slim. Fortunately, before that happened, I stumbled upon this article from Ecology Center regarding a new study that found that more than half (59%) of the cheap commercially-manufactured jewelry they tested rated high on the list for toxic chemicals.

Researchers tested for chemicals -- including lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury, bromine and chlorine (PVC) – which have been linked in animal and some human studies to acute allergies and to long-term health impacts such as birth defects, impaired learning, liver toxicity, and cancer.

I hope you don't mind me saying so, but that is some seriously nasty shit. I don't mind suffering for beauty with my high heels or my hair color, but I'll be damned if I'm going to wear poison just to look pretty. So the next time you happen to be standing in a Target, Walmart, H&M or Forever 21, and eyeing the jewelry section, remember this new study and keep your hands off!

Support independent artists and buy handmade. Shop in the jewelry category on Etsy. Personally, I'm keen on shopping for sterling silver.

The following video is from HealthyStuff.org regarding the study.

Thanks for reading,
Lotus