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How to Tell If a Baby Silver Item Is Lead Free?

Items made of silver can make a classic and lasting gift for a child, especially to commemorate a birth. But a spate of concerns over lead levels in silver, particularly in jewelry, may make you think twice about that silver gift. Young children are prone to put things in their mouths, putting them at risk of exposure to lead. They are also especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of lead, which can include headaches, stomach problems and, in severe cases, developmental delays. You can take several steps to ensure the silver gift you wish to give is safe.

Things You'll Need

Home lead test kit
Computer to check recall websites

Instructions

- 1
  Buy your silver item from a jeweler's store run by a knowledgeable professional craftsman, who can talk with you about the origins of the piece and how it was made. Express your particular concerns about lead content.
- 2
  Check the item you're considering for a "lead-free" label. Although this is not a fail-safe method, more and more manufacturers are acknowledging consumer concerns by labeling jewelry and other silver gifts to indicate safety.
- 3
  Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website on lead recalls (see Resources). This lists all consumer products recalled because of lead content. Ensure the item you are considering is not on the recall list.
- 4
  Buy an item that is not likely to be handled extensively by the child. It's safer to steer away from personal jewelry that might be worn and mouthed by the child. A commemorative cup can make a beautiful keepsake that will likely be displayed on a shelf by the family and then given to the child at a later date.
- 5
  Carry out a home lead test. You can buy a lead-testing kit at any hardware store. The test is usually easy to carry out. Most consist of a indicator solution that can be rubbed onto the surface of the silver item with a cotton swab. If the swab changes color, lead is present. You should be aware that home testing kits are not considered to be as reliable as a laboratory test.
- 6
  Send the item for laboratory testing if you want to make 100 percent certain there is no lead risk. The Environmental Protection Agency issues a list of accredited laboratories carrying out such tests. (See Resources.)

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