What safety rules apply to children’s jewelry in the US?

ZKZ Editorial TeamMain answer · Product & gemmology desk

In the US, children's products that contain more than 100 ppm lead in an accessible component are banned hazardous substances, and firms are expected to certify compliance. ASTM F2923 is the specification for children's jewelry. Test with an accredited laboratory rather than relying on the metal name.

What we verified

Fact The US Consumer Product Safety Commission says Section 101 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act declares children's products with more than 100 ppm lead in an accessible component to be banned hazardous substances, and that firms are expected to certify compliance in a Children's Product Certificate.

Fact ASTM International describes ASTM F2923 as a specification that establishes requirements and test methods for specified elements and certain mechanical hazards in children's jewelry, and includes recommendations for age labelling and warnings.

What to do

Our advice Use a test plan for each component, including clasps, jump rings, stones and plating.

Our advice Ask the factory for test reports from an accredited laboratory and keep them.

Our advice Check how your product is classed. A piece made for children is treated differently from adult jewelry.

It depends The rules for age limits, testing and certification are detailed, and some materials are exempt from testing. Which apply depends on the product.

Where children's jewelry goes wrong

• Plated base metals with high lead or cadmium content
• Clasps and charms made from unknown alloys
• Small parts that detach and can be swallowed
• Missing age labelling and warnings

Our advice Check each of these with your factory and laboratory before the first order, and re-test whenever a component supplier changes.

Our advice Do not assume a piece is suitable because it is small or cheap. Ask the manufacturer for test documents, keep them with the batch, and check them again whenever you change a supplier or material.

Our advice Put clear age guidance and care information on the packaging, and keep any pieces for children separate from adult lines in your records.

It depends Rules can differ by state and change over time, so seek current advice before selling.

Uncertain We did not verify which version of ASTM F2923 is mandatory, small-parts rules or state laws such as those on cadmium. Check with a laboratory or counsel before selling.

Related reading: What does “nickel-free” mean on jewelry, and which rules apply? · How to Request a Jewelry Prototype

Sources

• CPSC, total lead content
• ASTM F2923, Standard specification for consumer product safety for children's jewelry

Fact = stated by the cited source. Our advice = editorial recommendation. Uncertain / it depends = limits of what can be said in general.