Is Sterling Silver Hypoallergenic? What You Should Know.

The Struggle with Sensitive Skin and Jewelry

Does this situation sound familiar? You find the perfect pair of sterling silver earrings—elegant, timeless, and exactly what you were looking for. Excited, you wear them right away, only to notice hours later that your ears are itchy, red, and irritated. Confused and disappointed, you start to wonder: Is sterling silver really hypoallergenic?

As someone with sensitive skin, I understand how tricky it can be to choose the right jewelry. While sterling silver is often considered a safe option, not all pieces are created equal. In this article, I’ll share what makes sterling silver hypoallergenic, which metals to watch out for, and how to make sure your jewelry won’t cause unwanted reactions

Understanding Sterling Silver and Hypoallergenic Properties

Pure silver is too soft for durable jewelry, so it’s mixed with other metals to strengthen it.

Sterling silver is an alloy made from 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% other metals. The hypoallergenic properties of sterling silver depend on what that remaining 7.5% is made of.

High-quality Taxco sterling silver is usually alloyed with copper, a skin-safe metal that’s less likely to cause irritation. However, some manufacturers in the industry may use nickel, which can lead to allergic reactions for sensitive skin.

 

What Does Hypoallergenic Really Mean?

The term "hypoallergenic" suggests that a material is unlikely to cause allergic reactions, but it doesn’t mean it’s completely allergy-free. For jewelry, the main culprits behind irritation are certain metals, particularly nickel.

Jewelers sometimes add nickel to silver alloys instead of copper for a few reasons:

1. Increased Hardness & Durability – Nickel makes the silver alloy harder and more scratch-resistant than copper, which is softer.
2. Whiter Appearance – Nickel gives silver a brighter, whiter shine, similar to white gold, whereas copper gives it a warmer tone. Some jewelers prefer this aesthetic for certain designs.
3. Cost-Effectiveness – Nickel is cheaper than copper, making it an economical choice for mass-produced silver jewelry.

However, nickel is a common allergen, and many people experience skin irritation or rashes when exposed to it. This is why high-quality sterling silver (like the pieces I curate from Taxco) typically uses copper instead, ensuring both durability and hypoallergenic properties while maintaining the metal’s natural beauty.

 

Why Nickel-Free Matters in Sterling Silver Jewelry

Nickel allergies are common, leading to reactions like itching, redness, and rashes. Many mass-produced silver jewelry pieces contain trace amounts of nickel to increase durability, but this can irritate the skin.

At Nueve Sterling, I make sure that all the pieces I offer are nickel-free and safe for sensitive skin. I only work with trusted workshops in Taxco, Mexico, where high-quality silver jewelry is made to strict standards, ensuring your jewelry is both beautiful and comfortable.

 

The Truth About Taxco Silver Jewelry

Taxco, Mexico, is world-renowned for producing some of the finest sterling silver jewelry. The town has a long history of producing high-quality sterling silver jewelry, making it a go-to destination for silver lovers. However, even in Taxco, not all jewelry meets the same standards. While most of the artisans follow traditional methods, low-quality pieces can still be found in the market.

To ensure you're getting high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry, I always source my pieces from certified workshops in Taxco, such as those recognized by the Consejo Regulador de la Plata (Silver Regulatory Council). At Nueve Sterling, I curate only the finest pieces made by skilled artisans, giving you peace of mind that your jewelry is crafted with care and integrity.

 

How to Make Sure Your Sterling Silver Jewelry is Hypoallergenic

If you have sensitive skin, here are a few tips to ensure your sterling silver jewelry is hypoallergenic:

1. Look for Hallmarks – Authentic sterling silver is typically stamped with marks such as .925, Taxco, Mex, or Mexico; sometimes along with the designer's or workshop's stamp. 
   
   
   
2. Check the Source – Always buy from reputable sellers who disclose the alloy composition and source their jewelry from certified workshops.
3. Avoid Nickel-Infused Silver – If the price seems too good to be true, be cautious about the alloy’s composition. Sterling silver pieces that cause skin irritation may contain nickel. If you experience any discomfort, stop wearing the piece immediately.
4. Buy from Reputable Sellers – Whether from brick-and-mortar shops or online, always choose trusted sellers who are transparent about their products. Ask questions about the sourcing and craftsmanship of the jewelry to ensure you’re getting high-quality pieces that won’t cause irritation.
5. Use Protective Coatings – If you already own a piece you love but it's causing irritation, applying a clear nail polish coat on the inner surface can create a barrier, preventing direct contact between the metal and your skin. Reapply it as needed to keep the barriereffective and your skin free of irritation.
6. Opt for Quality Finishes: Rhodium plating can add an extra layer of protection preventing tarnish and reducing skin contact with alloys.

Is Rhodium-Plated Silver More Expensive?

Yes, rhodium-plated silver tends to be more expensive because rhodium is a rare and valuable metal. It enhances durability, prevents tarnishing, and provides a naturally hypoallergenic surface. However, rhodium plating can wear off over time and may need re-plating, depending on usage.

 

Does Taxco Silver Jewelry Come with Rhodium Plating?

Taxco silver jewelry typically does not come rhodium-plated, as it is crafted with high-quality sterling silver that is nickel-free, which enhances its natural beauty and durability. The pure alloy used allows the silver to shine on its own, showcasing the craftsmanship behind each piece. However, as the saying goes, "the customer gets what they ask for." If you would like your jewelry rhodium-plated, I can arrange this directly with the artisans to create a customized piece just for you. Please feel free to reach out to me at mariarocher@nuevesterling.ca, and I’ll take care of the rest.

 

The Bottom Line: Choose Quality, Choose Comfort

Sterling silver can be a great option for sensitive skin—if it’s made with the right metals. While Taxco silver jewelry is highly regarded worldwide, not every piece lives up to its famous reputation. Sourcing from trusted, certified workshops is essential to ensuring both beauty and comfort in your jewelry.

As Nueve Sterling, I only curate pieces from certified workshops by the Consejo Regulador de la Plata, giving my customers the confidence to buy with peace of mind, knowing they’re getting high-quality, irritation-free jewelry.

By understanding what’s in your silver and where it comes from, you can enjoy stunning pieces without worrying about skin reactions.

Always choose quality over price, and your jewelry will reward you with years of wear, offering comfort and lasting beauty.

Stop risking the comfort of your skin—explore my collection of authentic Taxco silver jewelry today and invest in pieces that offer beauty, tradition, and craftsmanship, all while keeping your skin irritation-free.