CPSC Warns of Lead Contamination in Jewelry...Again!

March 6, 2005 Examples of recalled jewelry. Jewelry manufacturers have done it again -- they have added too much lead to their products. On March 3, 2005, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall of approximately 2.8 million metal charms because they contain high levels of lead. These charms were made in China and sold at Michaels stores, Recollections stores and Hancock Fabrics stores under the name "Charming Thoughtstm." They have several shapes including birds, stone, hearts, crowns, and picture frames and can be used to decorate cards and bags or be attached to bracelets and necklaces. A six-year-old girl had elevated lead levels in her blood after she put one of the charms in her mouth. Lead is toxic to many organs of the body. It is especially dangerous because it can damage the brain and peripheral nerves. Lead can affect anyone, but children are especially at risk because they are still growing rapidly. For more about the recall, see: CPSC, Hirschberg Schutz & Co. Inc. Announce Recall of Metal Charms CPSC Warns of Lead Contamination in Vending Machine Jewelry (July 9, 2004)