1. Real Gold Necklaces
Real gold necklaces are highly valued and widely popular. Their bright, shiny color doesn’t fade over time because pure gold doesn’t easily react with air or chemicals. In Thailand, the most common type of real gold used in jewelry is 96.5% pure, equivalent to 23.16 karats.
Allergy Risk:
The chance of developing an allergy to real gold is very low. According to the Ministry of Public Health, only about 0.3% of people are allergic to real gold. In most cases, the allergy isn’t caused by the gold itself, but by trace metals like nickel or copper that may be mixed in during manufacturing.
Real-life Example:
Mook received a real gold necklace from her mother as a birthday gift last year and wore it daily. One day, she developed a rash around her neck. After seeing a doctor, she learned that she wasn’t allergic to the gold, but rather her skin was irritated by sweat and skincare products that had built up on the necklace. The solution was simple: clean the necklace regularly and keep the neck area dry.
2. Mixed Gold Necklaces
Mixed gold necklaces are made by combining gold with other metals to increase durability and reduce cost. These are more affordable and come in various purities, such as 18 karats (75% gold) and 14 karats (58.5% gold). The color tends to be slightly duller than pure gold and may tarnish over time.
Allergy Risk:
Mixed gold has a higher chance of causing allergic reactions due to the presence of metals like nickel and copper. The Ministry of Public Health reports that 10–15% of the population is allergic to nickel, which can cause red rashes and itching, especially with prolonged wear.
Real-life Example:
Pete bought a mixed gold necklace for his girlfriend on their anniversary. She wore it immediately but developed itching and a rash around her neck within a day. A doctor confirmed she was allergic to nickel in the necklace. She stopped wearing it and used a topical cream to relieve the symptoms.
3. Gold-Colored Necklaces That Aren’t Real Gold
These necklaces look like gold but are made from cheaper metals coated or plated with a thin layer of gold. Some are made from materials like copper and then colored to resemble gold. They’re inexpensive but tend to fade or peel with time.
Allergy Risk:
These types of necklaces often contain low-cost metals such as nickel, copper, or other alloys, which significantly increase the risk of allergic reactions. According to the Ministry of Public Health, 17% of people with metal allergies react to the metals found in imitation jewelry.
Real-life Example:
Tan bought a gold-plated necklace from a local market at a very low price. Within hours of wearing it, she experienced itching and a red rash around her neck. She stopped wearing it and bought anti-allergy cream from a pharmacy. To prevent future reactions, she was advised to avoid exposing the necklace to sweat or moisture.
How to Prevent and Treat Jewelry Allergies
If you start feeling itchy or notice a rash after wearing a necklace, don’t panic. Here are some simple steps to manage and prevent allergic reactions:
- Stop wearing the necklace immediately to prevent further irritation.
- Clean both the necklace and your skin with mild soap and water to remove any irritants.
- Apply anti-itch or steroid cream to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Choose nickel-free jewelry if you know you’re sensitive to metals. Opt for real gold or pieces labeled “nickel-free.”
Conclusion
Whether you’re choosing a real gold necklace, a mixed gold piece, or a gold-colored imitation, it’s important to consider the risk of allergic reactions and the quality of the materials. If you have a history of metal allergies, look for jewelry that’s nickel-free. And if you do experience symptoms, follow the recommended care steps so you can enjoy wearing your jewelry comfortably and safely.