Nickel

    The course began with an invaluable overview of the current market for precious and non precious metals and accessories before focusing on Nickel, Lead and Cadmium, including why each metal is harmful and the current testing regulations.   The course also covered the range of testing available at The Laboratory at The Birmingham Assay Office, how to request tests and how to complete specific test forms.    The course was delivered by industry expert…

Visitors who trade in costume jewellery and accessories need to understand this increasingly demanding legislation, and the growing concerns about nickel, lead, cadmium and other potentially harmful metals. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="314"] After extensive research, The Laboratory has developed a new “Quick Nickel” method for testing to the new standards. It is currently the only fully researched, UKAS accredited alternative to a full reference test. The test, wit…

Regulations for the UK have been in force since 1st March 2013. All items which are to be sold in the UK which are intended to come into prolonged and direct contact with the skin must also comply with these new regulations - BS EN 1811: 2011. The Laboratory at The Birmingham Assay Office has responded to these changes and now offers both a UKAS accredited Full Nickel Release test (EN 1811:2011) and a UKAS Accredited Quick Nickel Release test (2011) to check that they comply with new Nickel…

Michael Allchin, Chief Executive & Assay Master, gave a presentation entitled ‘OPPORTUNITY & OPTIMISM’  which helped put last years trading into perspective for the industry and looked at future trends. The new Reach & ROHS 2 Regulations were also discussed in depth which helped flag up other issues that could affect the UK jewellery and fashion accessories sectors. [caption id="attachment_4702" align="aligncenter" width="431"] Michael Revealed w…