I have a sensitivity to gold. What type of metal is best for me to wear in a ring?
Jul
15
Written by:
7/15/2011 6:53 PM
When gold jewelry is made, it is mixed with different types of alloy metals to change the strength, purity or color of the metal.
Your allergic reaction likely comes from the alloy metal (such a nickel, copper, and zinc), and not from the gold itself.
Hypoallergenic metals are much less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Platinum and palladium are the most frequently used hypoallergenic metals in jewelry. Platinum is malleable, which makes it very easy to work with for solitaire style bands and diamond bands.
Titanium and tungsten carbide are good substitutes for more simple bands. These two metals are also hypoallergenic and are used more often in men's bands.