Nickel

Hallmarked 9ct gold volumes in the UK dropped from 21.8m in 2001 to3.1m in 2011, creating a gap which has been filled by every manner of non precious metal jewellery and underweight silver. The size of the relative markets was explored, as were consumer buying habits. Michael also included a summary of the relevant legislation, particularly incoming new regulations included in the REACH Directive. The event was very well received with all delegates saying they would attend a similar event…

FORMALDEHYDE Formaldehyde is used in the production of fabrics and leather tanning. Exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to adverse health effects. Typically this occurs through inhalation or skin contact. Other chemical tests include: CHROMIUM (VI) IN LEATHER PENTACHLOROPHENOL (PCP), CHLORINATED PHENOLS (PCP, TCP and TeCP), DIMETHYL FUMARATE (DMF) GC-MS analysis, PHTHALATES PH – LEATHER, PH – TEXTILES, PH – PROCESSED WET TEXTILES and FIBRE COMPOSITION OF TEXTILE PRODU…

Background: EN 1811 is the internationally recognised test method which was devised almost 12 years ago to determine the rate of nickel release from jewellery, spectacle frames and other items. The test was devised to assess whether articles comply with the requirements of the EU Nickel Directive which restricts the release rate of nickel from articles intended to come into direct and prolonged contact with the skin and with post assemblies intended to be inserted into piercings in the body. …

The Laboratory at The Birmingham Assay Office is now UKAS accredited to carry out a whole range of