Choosing the Right Medical ID: The Types of Metals Used in Medical ID Jewelry

Probably the biggest factor in choosing a medical ID bracelet or necklace is the type of metal used to make the jewelry. Each type of metal has different characteristics and each type has its own aesthetics.

Stainless Steel - a very hard metal. Great for scratch resistance and wearability. Stainless steel comes in several grades including 316L (commonly known as "surgical stainless steel") Stainless steel is hypoallergenic --even for those with a Nickel allergy. According to an article on the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology's website, even though nickel is a component used in stainless steel, the nickel is bound tightly into the metal and will not leech out. This makes stainless steel suitable for those with a nickel allergy. You can read the full article here: Nickel Allergy.

Sterling Silver - a softer metal that is very pleasing. Many of the current fashion trends include big boxy sterling silver chains. A drawback for sterling silver is that it will age over time. Many actually like the "patina" look of lightly tarnished sterling silver jewelry. It has been our experience that sterling silver jewelry may tarnish faster when worn by certain people than others. However, sterling silver tarnish can usually be easily removed using dishsoap and water.

Gold - A very soft metal that will scratch. Gold comes in different grades known as karat (Abbreviated with k) the higher the k, the more "pure" gold is used in the jewelry and conversely, the lower the k, a higher percentage of base metals such as copper and silver are contained in the alloy. Common grades are 10k, 14k and 18k (Very few people wear 18k or 22k gold jewelry on a daily basis. It will wear quickly). The best thing about gold jewelry is that it will not likely tarnish.

Gold Filled - Gold filled jewelry is actually a thin sheet of gold (usually 10k or 14k) bonded onto a substrate (usually copper). The advantages to this is you get the look of gold without the hefty price. Over Time, the gold will often wear away and expose the copper beneath.

Gold Plated - a very small layer of gold is applied using an elecrolytic treatment. the gold can be applied over many different types of base metals. including stainless steel, and silver (known as Vermeil).