A BBC investigation has revealed that jewellery sold as sterling silver on major online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Temu, and OnBuy contained toxic chemicals. The analysis, conducted by the Sheffield Assay Office, found that some items had dangerous levels of cadmium and nickel, exceeding legal limits. Meranda, a 34-year-old buyer, experienced skin irritation after wearing a necklace advertised as handmade sterling silver on Etsy. Testing showed her necklace contained up to 11% nickel in one part of the chain, far higher than expected in genuine sterling silver.
Out of 25 pieces of jewellery purchased by the BBC's Watchdog team, eight items contained cadmium levels over the legal limit of 0.01%, with some reaching up to 10%. Cadmium is a carcinogen linked to lung cancer and poses risks if inhaled or ingested. The affected items included a bracelet priced at £1.55 and earrings at £1.99. Sophie Langley, who led the analysis, described the cadmium levels as 'absolutely massive' compared to safety standards.
The jewellery was advertised as 925 or sterling silver, which should contain at least 92.5% silver. However, testing revealed that part of Meranda's necklace contained only 8.9% silver. Selling fake sterling silver violates the Hallmarking Act, potentially leading to fines or imprisonment. Amazon, eBay, Temu, and OnBuy stated they had removed the mislabeled items and offered refunds or recalls. Etsy did not respond to the BBC's inquiries.
Meranda received a full refund after contacting the Etsy seller and speaking to Watchdog. The investigation highlights the risks of counterfeit jewellery and the importance of verifying product authenticity before purchase.