Caution: Cadmium In Jewelry

I’ve wanted all week to tell you about an article I read in my local newspaper, but it’s been a busy week at the Reeves hacienda with lots of doctor appointments for my daughter. Houston is a big town, and it seems as if the doctors we must consult are at the opposite end from where we live. Lots of driving involved.

What I hate is when a 4 o’clock appointment ends after 6PM, and we hit the freeways at the same time as the million or so other commuters. Unfortunately, when each day is like this, it leaves little time for blogging.

You Must Be Cautious

The Associated Press commissioned testing of jewelry made in China for the children and teen markets. Of 103 pieces tested, 12 contained cadmium, a cancer-causing element. Some of the pieces tested in the 80-90% range. The jewelry is sold at places like Claire’s in the mall, Walmart, and other high volume, low price stores. A Best Friends bracelet sold at Claire’s had charms that tested at 89 and 91% cadmium. Both Walmart and Claire’s, when notified of the findings, pulled suspect items. Good for them.

Why?

Why do the manufacturers use this dangerous metal? Because it’s shiny, malleable at low temps, strong, and cheap. The leading manufacturers said, they use cadmium because their highest priority is profit. Obviously, they don’t give a damn about the safety of their workers or those who buy their products.

Personally, I’ve decided to just avoid purchasing anything made in China. There have been so many dangerous deviations from safety in their products in the last two years, and that’s just the ones that we know about. It’s horrifying that kids could be wearing jewelry that may eventually cause them to develop cancer. Be sure and check any jewelry for manufacturer’s origin before you buy it. Be safe, not sorry.

Takeaway Truth

The health and safety of a human being should be the highest priority, not profit. No exceptions.

Tags: cadmium, chinese manufacturers, consumer caution, tainted jewelry