LOS ANGELES — Concern about the heavy metal cadmium in jewelry grew Tuesday as a California environmental group said new testing of adult necklaces and bracelets bought at three leading retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Aeropostale, detected high levels of the toxic material — as much as 75 percent by weight.
One of the pieces was made in China and another was made in India. Labeling on a black link necklace, purchased at Saks for $69.99, did not indicate where it was made.
The parent of the national chain Catherines said Tuesday that it was pulling a bracelet with a pink “breast cancer awareness” charm.
Based on the results of its testing, the Center for Environmental Health said it would seek a ban on cadmium in all jewelry.
The center said it began testing adult jewelry after an Associated Press report last month of cheap children’s jewelry containing cadmium.
