Independent tests of more than a dozen magnetic earrings done for the Tribune showed that the earring magnets all were at least as powerful as magnets found inside toys that have caused the death of one child and scores of other injuries. Some of the magnetic earrings were more than five times more powerful.

Both stainless steel silver and sterling silver earrings are good options for people with sensitive ears, but there are a few factors to consider when choosing between them. If you have a severe allergy to metals, then stainless silver earrings is probably the better choice since it does not contain any nickel.

However, you might want to steer clear of pure 24k gold unless you're sensitive to even the most minute amounts of nickel because of how soft and malleable the metal is. Other materials that work for sensitive ears include stainless steel, titanium, plastic, and niobium.

316L stainless steel, also called surgical steel, is best for sensitive skin. It has low nickel content and higher chromium and molybdenum instead. It's durable, chemical resistant, and affordable, but it is not hypoallergenic because it's made up of nickel, even though only a small amount.