It seems that Chinese manufacturers, when barred from making trinkety jewelry with toxic lead, is now using…cadmium. Big deal you say right but according to the article I read today, cadmium is even more dangerous than lead.

This bugs me more than usual because I’ve often mentioned how nice it is to buy cheap gifts for kids at the Dollar Store and other discount stores like Claire’s and Walmart. Sure you have to ingest the cadmium from the jewelry, so obviously this is a very big no no for very small kids, but since I can’t remember if I’ve ever had to put any jewelry in my mouth myself, I can’t say it would be impossible for a girl my daughter’s age to do such a thing. And trust me, that girl likes anything girly she can get her hands on so no matter how green a fancy unicorn ring turns her finger, she’s going to sport it til she loses it (the ring, not the finger).

According to the article, “Cadmium is a known carcinogen. Like lead, it can hinder brain development in the very young, according to recent research.” It later states that children don’t have to actually swallow the jewelry to become exposed, biting and sucking can be just as dangerous. Further, on a list by the CDC’s list of 275 most hazardous substances in the environment, our friend cadmium is number 7. So yes regardless of who says what about it, it isn’t safe.

Unfortunately, jewelry has to be added to the list of “What Not to Buy at Walmart”. If anything, spring for the children’s jewelry that is sterling silver or gold, there are usually decent deals on those items. I hate to say it, but it may be a good idea to steer clear of children’s gadgets made from Chinese manufacturers until we have clearer regulations regarding toxic materials. There is also plenty of colorful plastic play jewelry that is just as safe (for now anyway).

Remember, cheap is no good if we’re sick. Usually this rule applies mostly to buying decade old food from Dollar stores but it seems we have to keep it in mind for children’s toys as well. Cinderella would be ashamed…