jewellery making

Jewellery making is a craft that perfectly combines suitable materials, skill, and utmost attention to detail. The material used is imperative when making jewellery, which makes lead-free crystals incredibly popular in the industry. Traditional crystals contain lead which causes potential dangers of lead exposure. On the other hand, lead-free crystals are a safer alternative, with their quality still intact.

In this article, we explore the benefits of using lead-free crystals for jewellery and their unique properties. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional jeweller, grasping the benefits of lead-free crystals can take your craft to new levels.

Less health risks for manufacturers and users

The most significant perk of using lead-free crystals is it’s safer. Contact with leaded crystals presents more risks than lead-free crystals. Traditional crystals contain lead oxide, exposing those who handle it to various health issues. These health issues include developmental delays, nerve damage, and cognitive impairment. As a result, many technicians working with leaded crystals are susceptible to these severe health issues.

But with most lead-free crystals, the harmful lead oxide is replaced with safer components. By using lead-free crystals, the risk is thrown out of the window. Hence, lead-free crystals are safer to handle than leaded crystals.

Come in many beautiful shapes and colours

Lead-free crystals come in different designs, they are beautiful and sparkle with timeless elegance. For example, there are different designs of swarovski pendants and are all made of lead-free crystals. Instead of lead, lead-free crystals have barium oxide, zinc oxide, and magnesium oxide. These contents give lead-free crystals a new look. Since lead-free crystals are made of lighter components, the crystals are thinner and tapered. This feature makes them ideal for various shapes and designs like those of Swarovski pendants.

Eco-friendly

Undeniably, lead poses an increased risk to the environment. Replacing lead crystals with lead-free crystals helps reduce the risk of environmental harm. Using lead-free crystals to make jewellery eliminates any possibility of lead getting into the environment. Although jewelries might seem like insignificant environmental contributors, many lead particles get into the atmosphere when produced in large quantities. While lead-free crystals don’t pose such a threat to the environment.

Durable and longevity

The absence of lead does not affect how long a crystal is or how durable it is. As a matter of fact, lead-free crystals are more durable than leaded crystals. Its high durability makes lead-free crystals more suitable for many jewellery designs. During jewellery making, crystals are put through a lot of stress and must be durable.

Moving on, lead-free crystals have just the same brilliance as leaded glass. Although lead-free crystals are harder than its counterpart, it is just as clear. As a result, crystals are both hard and clear due to their contents. Moreover, the crystal lasts longer than traditional crystals with no risk of exposure. So you can expect jewellery with lead-free crystals to sparkle for several years.

Flexibility

Lead-free crystals are relatively easy to work with, which makes them perfect for many jewellery designs. It can be cut, graded, and shaped into several designs. Also, jewellery makers can integrate the crystal into almost any jewel setting. It can be delicate earrings, necklaces, or bracelets. Its durability means that jewellery makers can fix it into metals or any material.

Hypoallergenic

Another perk of lead-free crystals is that it’s hypoallergenic. Compared to leaded crystals, lead-free crystals don’t contain lead and other allergens known to cause reactions or irritation. Using lead-free crystal to make jewellery eliminates the risks of allergic reactions for those who manufacture or wear them. Hence, it is perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Cost Effective

The initial cost of lead-free crystals is high due to how durable it is and their lack of lead content. However, it is still more cost-effective than leaded/traditional crystals. This is due to its durability and tendency to last longer. Due to its durability, the crystal can be used for various designs. Hence, it serves as a worthy investment for jewellery makers. Moreover, lead-free crystals don’t impact the environment as leaded crystals, which in its way, costs less.

Lead-free crystals offer a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to traditional crystals in jewellery making. The durability and versatility properties make it an excellent option for jewellery makers hoping to create beautiful, safe, well-cut crystals for jewellery pieces. While it is more costly than leaded crystals, it has several perks making it a better option. With beauty and safety as its major selling points, lead-free crystals are tremendous picks for jewelries.