RECALL: Lead and cadmium in kids' jewellery

Health Canada has announced the recall of Shell Magic Children's Jewellery.

The recalled items contain excessive levels of lead and cadmium.

Health Canada is taking this time to remind the public of the potential dangers of excessive levels of lead and cadmium in kids' (and adult) jewellery.

Here's what they recommend for safe jewellery practice:

• Check your kids' jewellery. If you think it may contain lead, dispose of it immediately.
• Don't let young kids play with your (adult) jewellery because it may also contain lead or cadmium.
• Keep all jewellery out of your children's mouths.
• If you reguarly catch your child chewing or sucking on jewellery, consult your doctor — a blood test may be advised.
• If your child swallows jewellery, go to Emergency immediately and contact your local poison control centre.
• Monitor jewellery recalls through this blog and Health Canada.

The following Shell Magic Jewellery items have been recalled (see product photos here):

• T & D Pendant Necklace: A silver chain with a happy-faced red maple leaf and blue box with the words "Toronto, Canada." It comes with a white card inscribed "T & D Collection."
• Fashion Jewellery Bracelet: A black double-corded bracelet with three metal charms. There are particularly high lead levels in the Airplane, Eiffel Tower, and Suitcase charms.
• Fashion Jewellery Pendant Necklace: A silver chain with a silver dollar sign pendant. It comes with a black card inscribed "Fashion Jewellery."
• Hot 2 Trot Bracelet A silver link bracelet with a dolphin charm. Comes with a small card inscribed "Hot 2 Trot."

These products have been sold in Canada (particularly western Canada) from 2005 to September 2012.

As Health Canada reminds us, the danger in the above items is not in children wearing them, as they are intended, but in children sucking, chewing or swallowing them. If you have any of these items, it is recommended that you dispose of them immediately.