I'm going to answer this the best way I know how, and the truth is, I honestly have no idea. The packaging doesn't say. I looked it up on their website and that doesn't say either. Which does make me wonder. However, I live in a really small town with claire's being the closest place for me to buy body jewelry. I have been wearing nose rings from there for many years without any problems. These were bought for me and the only reason I don't wear them is because I prefer the L shaped ones. I'm sorry I couldn't be more help and give you a better answer.