Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard establishes requirements and test methods for specified elements and certain mechanical hazards in adult jewelry. F2999, Consumer Safety Specification for Adult Jewelry, was developed by Subcommittee F15.24 on Jewelry, part of ASTM International Committee F15 on Consumer Products.

In 2011, F15.24 approved F2923, Specification for Consumer Product Safety for Children's Jewelry. Developing a standard for adult jewelry was the natural follow-up to F2923, according to Brent Cleaveland, executive director, Fashion Jewelry and Accessories Trade Association, and chairman, F15.24.

"Our premise in developing requirements for adult jewelry, just as it was for our approach to children's jewelry, was that the standard had to be based on science and consider reasonable paths of exposure for the intended consumer," says Cleaveland.

"F2999 applies to all jewelry designed and expressly marketed to consumers over 13 years of age," says Cleaveland, who also noted that the requirements for an adult jewelry standard were different from those of the children's standard.

Because the standard is based on real-world data, F2999 will provide manufacturers, sellers and, ultimately, buyers of jewelry with confidence that products meeting the standard will be safe. According to Cleaveland, use of the standard will reduce costs, ensure safety and protect consumers all across the country.

In addition to manufacturers, suppliers and sellers of adult jewelry, Cleaveland says, "We also expect that regulatory agencies and laboratories will rely on F2999 in evaluating jewelry safety. We believe that the market has been waiting for this standard and that it will help to achieve our goal of harmonization of safety requirements."

F2999 limits lead in adult jewelry as well as the following compounds in surface coatings:

Other areas covered by F2999 include approved materials for adult body-piercing jewelry, nickel exposure in metal components and mechanical requirements for adult jewelry. In addition, the standard includes several test methods to use in the analysis of jewelry.

Interested parties are welcome to join the subcommittee in maintaining both F2923 and F2999.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Sales (phone: 877-909-ASTM; sales@astm.org).

CONTACT Technical Information: Brent Cleaveland, Fashion Jewelry and Accessories Trade Association • N. Kingstown, R.I. • Phone: 401-667-0520 | ASTM Staff: Leonard Morrissey • Phone: 610-832-9719