Question from Linda

Do Swarovski crystals pose a health danger? Say if I wear a Swarovski crystal necklace, can the lead leach off the beads and penetrate my skin and into the bloodstream causing lead poisoning? What about their Aurora Borealis beads? Those are quoted with tin foil (so I’ve been told) at back, meaning this would directly touch the throat area. If it’s hot and I’m wearing either, is leaching inevitable or are they somehow safe? Thank you for your help.

Debra’s Answer

Swarovski crystals DO contain lead, however, they say “the crystal manufacturing process creates a matrix which inhibits the mobility of lead. In other words, lead is bound into the structure of the crystal. Because of this structure, lead crystal poses no significant risk of excessive lead exposure to human health via surface contact (hand to mouth), mouthing or even ingestion. Indeed, Swarovski crystals have been tested under a variety of test methods for extractable lead. Test conditions and procedures do vary, but lead levels are well below regulatory limits even when the crystal is tested in an acid solution to maximize the release of lead.” Read more about this at http://www.i-kandi.com/CPSIA-Crystal-Lead-Statement.htm

Tin could be absorbed by the skin with contact, so I would not recommend wearing the Aurora Borealis beads against your skin. You could wear them over clothing if you want.