Gold jewellery has always symbolized elegance, wealth, and tradition. But what many people don’t realize is that the glittering pieces they wear may contain hidden metals mixed with gold to make it stronger and more affordable. One such alloy is nickel—widely used in the past, but now recognized as harmful to health and banned in many parts of the world.

Why Nickel is Used in Gold Alloys

Gold in its purest form (24K) is too soft for everyday wear. To make it durable, jewellers mix it with other metals. Nickel became a popular choice because:

• It gives gold a bright, white finish (used in white gold).
  
  

• It makes jewellery harder and more scratch-resistant.
  
  

• It is cheaper compared to safer alloys like palladium or platinum.
  
  

At first glance, nickel seemed like the perfect partner for gold—but over time, its hidden dangers became impossible to ignore.

Why Nickel is Harmful

1. Nickel Allergies

Nickel is one of the most common causes of jewellery-related skin allergies worldwide. Prolonged skin contact can lead to:

• Rashes, redness, and itching.
  
  

• Painful blisters or dry, cracked skin.
  
  

• Long-term sensitivity, where even small traces of nickel trigger reactions.
  
  

For some people, just a few hours of wearing nickel-containing jewellery can cause irritation.

2. Cumulative Health Risks

Continuous exposure to nickel doesn’t just cause skin problems—it can also affect overall health. Studies link high levels of nickel exposure to respiratory issues and, in rare cases, more serious conditions.

3. Impact on Quality of Jewellery

Nickel may make jewellery harder, but it can also cause tarnishing and discoloration over time. Pieces can lose their shine faster compared to safer alloys.

Global Regulations and Bans on Nickel

Because of these risks, nickel use in jewellery is strictly regulated or banned in many countries:

• European Union: Nickel Directive restricts nickel release from jewellery to extremely low levels.
  
  

• United States: While not an outright ban, strict safety standards regulate its use.
  
  

• Australia, Canada, and Japan: Nickel use in jewellery is heavily restricted to protect consumers.
  
  

These regulations came into effect after millions of people developed skin allergies due to nickel exposure.

Why Nickel Still Appears in Jewellery in India

Despite global restrictions, nickel is still used in parts of India, particularly in white gold or cheaper alloys. The main reasons are:

• Lack of strict enforcement of jewellery regulations.
  
  

• Lower production cost compared to safer alternatives like palladium.
  
  

• Limited consumer awareness about the health risks.
  
  

How to Protect Yourself as a Buyer

• Check for BIS Hallmark: Always insist on certified hallmark jewellery in India.
  
  

• Ask about Alloys: When buying white gold, confirm if palladium—not nickel—has been used.

• Go for Hypoallergenic Metals: Choose alloys made with platinum, palladium, or silver instead of nickel.
  
  

• Be Alert to Reactions: If jewellery causes rashes or itching, stop wearing it immediately and get it tested.
  
  

Nickel may strengthen gold, but its risks outweigh its benefits. With safer alternatives available, its continued use is unnecessary and harmful. Many countries have already banned it to protect consumers—something India too must enforce more strictly. As a buyer, staying informed and asking the right questions is the best way to ensure your gold jewellery is both beautiful and safe.