Increase in Use of Toxic Metal Cadmium Poses Safety Concerns in Children's Jewelry
It was recently reported that Chinese manufacturers have been using the dangerous heavy metal, cadmium, in charm bracelets and shiny pendants sold widely in the US. This trend comes as a result of a ban on using lead in children’s jewelry due to its toxic nature. Testing of certain pieces of jewelry has revealed up to 91% of cadmium by weight.
Exposure to cadmium by sucking or biting jewelry with a high content of the metal gives rise to serious health problems. Cadmium is known to cause cancer, and it can lead to problems in brain development in young children. The metal currently ranks number seven on the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s list of most hazardous substances in the environment. The US has stringent laws for cadmium levels in toys, but not for jewelry.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission stated that they are opening an investigation into the matter. Some of the items that have been reported to have high cadmium content can be found at Wal-Mart and Claire’s. Also some “The Princess and The Frog” movie-themed pieces were reported to contain cadmium.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
If your child or someone you know has suffered injuries from cadmium exposure with these pieces of jewelry, please contact the Pintas Law Firm immediately. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will be able to evaluate your claim. Our Chicago law firm can provide you with a free consultation and an explanation of your legal rights.