Cadmium

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…

The use of cadmium in metal jewellery products, plastics and paint is restricted by the REACH Directive as of December 2011. This has significantly added to the testing burden on fashion accessory suppliers who are already testing for nickel and lead. Trace cadmium or lead would result in resubmission for a full test, but where items are specified to be lead and cadmium free this is a fast and low cost option.

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