Metal Sensitivity & Materials FAQ

We want you to shop with confidence. The answers below reflect what we know about our materials and what we're still working to verify.

What metal is used in LOVII jewelry?

Our pieces are made from 316L stainless steel — a surgical-grade alloy widely used in medical devices and body jewelry. It is highly resistant to corrosion, tarnish, and everyday wear.

Does 316L stainless steel contain nickel?

Yes. 316L stainless steel is an alloy that typically contains 10–14% nickel by weight, along with chromium and molybdenum. The nickel is tightly bound within the alloy matrix, which significantly reduces — but does not eliminate — the potential for nickel release compared to plated brass or low-grade steel.

If you have a confirmed nickel allergy, please be aware that 316L stainless steel is not nickel-free. We recommend consulting your dermatologist before purchasing.

Is LOVII jewelry hypoallergenic?

We describe our jewelry as hypoallergenic because 316L stainless steel has a very low rate of skin reactions in the general population. However, we do not currently hold third-party nickel-release certifications (such as EU Nickel Directive / EN 1811 compliance). "Hypoallergenic" is not a regulated or universal term — it means low risk of reaction, not zero risk.

Until supplier certification is available, we advise customers with known metal sensitivities to treat this claim as indicative rather than certified.

What is PVD coating, and does it affect skin contact?

Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) is a vacuum-bonding process that fuses a thin layer of material (e.g., gold or black titanium nitride) directly onto the steel surface at a molecular level. It differs from electroplating in two key ways:

Adhesion: PVD bonds are significantly harder and more scratch-resistant than electroplated finishes.
Thickness & durability: PVD coatings typically outlast standard electroplating under daily wear.

When intact, the PVD layer acts as a barrier between your skin and the steel substrate. However, no coating is permanent — heavy abrasion, chemicals, or prolonged saltwater exposure can thin the coating over time, eventually allowing base metal contact.

Is the jewelry water-resistant and tarnish-resistant?

316L stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance in freshwater, sweat, and most everyday environments. Our PVD-finished pieces add an additional protective layer. That said:

Avoid prolonged submersion in chlorinated pools or saltwater.
Remove jewelry before using harsh cleaning agents or perfumes.
These claims apply under normal wear conditions; individual results depend on skin chemistry and care habits.

I have sensitive skin — what should I do before buying?

Patch test: Wear a similar 316L steel piece on the inner wrist for 24–48 hours before committing to daily wear.
Start with PVD-finished pieces — the coating provides an additional barrier.
Consult a dermatologist if you have a diagnosed nickel allergy or history of contact dermatitis.
Contact us if you have specific material questions — we will share the most current supplier data available.

When will you have official material certifications?

We are working to obtain supplier-issued material data sheets and relevant compliance documentation. We will update this page and product listings when verified certifications are available.