The Electronic Guide to the Cadmium Issue

According to the CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 Annex VI it is a type 1B carcinogen (presumed to have carcinogenic potential for humans, classification is largely based on animal evidence), a category 2 mutagen (substances which cause concern for humans owing to the possibility that they may induce heritable mutations in the germ cells of humans) and reproductive toxicant (suspected human reproductive toxicant).

Cadmium may be present in jewellery as (a) part of the main jewellery alloy, (b) in a solder, (c) in gold coatings (electroforming/electroplating), or (d) as a pigment or stabiliser in non-metal components of a jewellery article.