Nickel Release and Lead in Coatings: Compliance Points Buyers Miss on Metal Souvenirs

Worker inspecting gold plated metal gifts against a colour reference tray

A close reading of two substance limits that decide whether a finished metal souvenir can legally be sold: the REACH Annex XVII nickel release restriction, including the two-year durability requirement for non-nickel coatings, and the United States ban on lead-containing paint, including the definition that excludes electroplating and ceramic glazing.