That green ring on your finger after wearing jewelry isn't an allergy — it's chemistry. Here's exactly why it happens and, more importantly, how to make sure it never happens again.

The Science Behind Green Skin

When certain metals — primarily copper — react with moisture (sweat, water, lotion), they oxidize and create copper chloride, a greenish compound that transfers to your skin. It's completely harmless, but not exactly the look anyone is going for.

Most affordable jewelry uses brass (copper + zinc) or copper as a base metal. Gold plating covers it at first, but as the plating wears away, the base metal is exposed — and the green marks begin.

Which Metals Cause the Problem

The main culprit is copper and copper alloys like brass. But other metals can cause reactions too: • Brass — most common cause of green skin • Copper — oxidizes quickly with moisture • Nickel — causes allergic reactions in many people • Low-quality alloys — unpredictable reactions

The metals that never cause green skin are surgical stainless steel, solid gold, platinum, and titanium — because they don't react with moisture or skin.

Why 316L Surgical Steel Makes the Difference

At Purajoia, every piece starts with 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel — the same material used in medical implants. It contains no copper, no brass, and no nickel. It doesn't oxidize. It doesn't react with skin.

Combined with 18K Gold PVD on top, you get jewelry that is completely inert — waterproof, tarnish-free, and guaranteed to never leave a green mark, no matter how long you wear it.

How to Test Your Current Jewelry

Not sure if your jewelry will turn your skin green? Try this: • Hold the piece against white paper after wearing — does it leave a greenish mark? • Check for a 'remove before swimming' warning — a sign of copper-based metals • Look for 316L, surgical steel, or titanium in the materials description • If it says 'base metal' or 'alloy' without specifying — be cautious