You don’t want anything unsafe on your body. Polymer clay earrings might be a new avenue of expression to you, and you don’t know what’s left from right. Naturally, you have to ask: are polymer clay earrings safe.
The answer is yes.
How Do You Know Polymer Clay Earrings Are Safe?
The Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) has certified polymer clay as non-toxic, and studies have shown that the material is safe for humans to use. There are things you shouldn’t do it with - I wouldn’t advise treating polymer clay like a snack - but for the purpose of utilizing the material for unique and awe-inspiring earrings and other jewelry, you’re good to go.
This has not always been the case, though. Polymer clay manufacturers used to include phthalates in the process with the goal of a softer, more malleable product. But these plasticizers were not safe. When a study was released highlighting the dangers of phthalates, it was removed from manufacturing.
It is also important to note that when polymer clay is burned, it can release some fumes that aren’t great for you. For artists, this is something to consider, but it isn’t really something a wearer of polymer clay earrings would need to worry about; polymer clay doesn’t give off any toxicity by the final product stage. I wear a mask during almost every step of the process when creating my polymer clay earrings, and when baking my clay, I make sure to have as many windows open as possible to ensure proper ventilation. I suggest anyone else who works with the material in a similar fashion do the same.
"Gatsby" earrings as seen in this picture.
If concerns over safety are what’s holding you back from diving into the polymer clay earrings world, don’t let them. Polymer clay is a perfectly safe material for your ears and hands to touch. You probably shouldn’t take any bites out of polymer clay, so it would be wise to keep the material out of the reach of small children. Ideally, older kids and adults can be trusted to know better on their own accord.
How Should I Care For My Polymer Clay Earrings?
To ensure your polymer clay earrings remain as safe in your possession as they are safe to use, there are some basic rules you can follow. For example, do your best to keep your polymer clay jewelry away from water, especially lots of it. Check out either of those links to learn more about how to properly maintain your polymer clay earrings to help them last for years to come!
Edited by Justin Meyer.