Hazardous Jewelry, Amulets, Charms, Toys - NYC Health

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Hazardous Products: Jewelry, Amulets and Toys

Lead may be in the paint, metal and plastic parts of jewelry, amulets and toys. Lead can be swallowed when these objects are placed in the mouth. Young children are at increased risk for poisoning because they often put objects in their mouths.

Jewelry

Jewelry for children and adults may contain high levels of lead.

CDC: Sources of Lead — Jewelry

Amulets

In some cultures, it is a custom to give children amulets, sheesha, tabiz, metal charms, necklaces or bracelets for different reasons. These objects can contain high levels of lead.

CDC MMWR: Lead Poisoning of a Child Associated with Use of a Cambodian Amulet — New York City, 2009

Toys

The metal or painted parts of some toys may contain lead. For more information and tips about toy safety:

Toy Safety

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — Think Toy Safety (PDF)

Other Languages: Español

Rattles or Maracas

Glazes and paints used to decorate some rattles and maracas can contain high levels of lead. Keep painted rattles and maracas away from children.

Rattles and Maracas Health Warning Sign

Avoiding Lead Exposure

To reduce the risk of lead exposure from these products:

Keep amulets and adult jewelry away from children when possible.

If your child wears an amulet, place it in a way that it cannot be mouthed.

Never buy or give away recalled, broken or damaged toys. Especially if there is chipping paint. If a toy is broken, discard it safely.

If your child often puts jewelry, amulets or toys, including rattles or maracas, in their mouth, ask your child’s doctor for a blood lead test.

Additional Resources

Brochure: South Asians and Lead Poisoning (PDF)

Other Languages: বাংলা | हिन्दी | اردو

Product Recalls and Safety Alerts

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — Toy Safety Alerts and Guides

Report an Unsafe Product

More Information

Hazardous Consumer Products Main Page

Lead Poisoning Main Page