What was recalled
In July of 2016, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving jewelry products sold under the brand name Things Remembered. This recall specifically targeted children’s fashion accessories that were marketed as sweet and sentimental gifts. The items in question are not generic pieces of jewelry but distinct, branded products with specific design elements that make them easily identifiable if you have purchased them from this retailer during the relevant time frame.
The recall covers two main types of products: silver heart bracelets and "sweet charm" necklaces. These items were designed to appeal to young girls, featuring playful themes such as ice cream and cupcakes. The bracelets are six inches in length and are silver-plated. They feature a distinctive design consisting of ten silver hearts interspersed with circle links. The closure mechanism is a standard lobster claw clasp, which is common in jewelry of this type, but the key identifier for the recalled item is the inclusion of one additional silver heart-shaped charm attached to the piece.
The necklaces are equally specific in their construction and aesthetic. They are gold-plated and feature a thirteen-inch box chain with an additional two-inch extender, allowing for some adjustability in length. Like the bracelets, these necklaces use a lobster claw closure for security. The defining feature of the recalled necklace is its set of three charms: a pink ice cream cone, a pink crystal cupcake, and a gold-plated tag engraved with the word "SWEET." These specific combinations of materials, lengths, and charm designs are what define the scope of this recall.
The CPSC record indicates that these items were sold by Things Remembered. While the provided facts do not specify the exact dates on which the products were first put into circulation or the precise retail locations where they were available, it is important to note that this was a nationwide distribution through the company’s channels. The recall was issued on July 19, 2016, after concerns were raised regarding the safety of the materials used in these popular children's accessories. If you purchased a silver heart bracelet or a sweet charm necklace from Things Remembered around this time, it is crucial to verify whether your specific item matches the descriptions above, as these are the products subject to the recall.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about lead in jewelry, the danger rarely comes from the metal itself being inherently poisonous to touch. Instead, the risk is almost entirely tied to what happens when that metal is coated or plated, and how that coating holds up over time. In this specific recall involving Things Remembered, the issue lies with the clear surface coating applied to both the silver-plated bracelets and the gold-plated necklaces. While these coatings are designed to protect the underlying metal from tarnishing and to give the jewelry a shiny, durable finish, they have failed in this instance by allowing lead from the inner layers to migrate through to the outer surface.
Lead is a heavy metal that does not break down easily. When it is embedded in the base material of the jewelry or used in the plating process itself, it remains there indefinitely. The clear topcoat acts as a barrier, but if that barrier is compromised—whether by manufacturing defects, wear and tear from daily use, or saliva contact—the lead can become accessible. For children, this is particularly concerning because they have a natural tendency to put objects in their mouths. Even if the jewelry does not break apart into large chunks, the surface itself becomes contaminated with lead particles that can be ingested simply by chewing on the clasp or resting the pendant against their lips.
Once ingested, lead poses a serious threat to developing bodies. Unlike adults, whose systems are more efficient at filtering out toxins, young children absorb lead much more readily. Their brains and nervous systems are still forming, making them exquisitely sensitive to neurotoxins. There is no known safe level of lead exposure for children. Even small amounts can interfere with cognitive development, leading to long-term issues with learning, behavior, and attention. The harm is not immediate in the sense of a sudden injury like a cut or burn; rather, it is a cumulative, silent process that can affect a child’s health for years to come.
In this recall, the CPSC has identified that the lead levels in the clear coating exceed federal safety standards. This means the jewelry does not meet the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) requirements for children’s products, which strictly limit lead content to prevent exactly these kinds of exposures. The fact that no incidents have been reported yet is fortunate, but it does not mean the risk is absent. The potential for harm exists whenever a child comes into contact with the contaminated surface and transfers those particles to their mouth. Understanding this mechanism highlights why immediate removal from children is necessary, even if the jewelry looks perfectly fine on the outside.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about safety recalls involving jewelry, it is easy to view the item merely as an accessory or a sentimental keepsake. However, in the case of this specific recall by Things Remembered, the primary group at significant risk is young children. These products—a silver heart bracelet and a sweet charm necklace—are explicitly designed for kids. They feature playful motifs like ice cream cones, cupcakes, and hearts, which are intended to appeal to a younger demographic’s sense of fun and personal expression. Because these items are marketed as gifts for children, they are likely to be worn frequently and handled often. This high level of interaction increases the probability that a child might put the jewelry in their mouth, especially during moments of play, exploration, or teething.
The danger here is not just about choking on a small part, though that is always a concern with any small accessory. The more insidious risk comes from the material itself. The clear surface coating on these bracelets and necklaces contains lead in excess of federal safety limits. Lead is a potent neurotoxin that poses a severe threat to developing bodies. Unlike adults, whose systems are more robust and capable of filtering out certain toxins, young children absorb lead much more efficiently. Their gastrointestinal tracts retain up to five times more lead than adults do, meaning that even small amounts ingested from licking or chewing on the jewelry can accumulate in their system over time.
This is particularly concerning for toddlers and preschoolers. At this stage of development, children explore their world through their mouths. They are naturally curious and may not understand that a shiny object is not food. If the clear coating on the jewelry chips or wears off due to normal wear and tear, lead can leach out onto the skin or be ingested directly if the child sucks on the piece. Because lead does not break down in the body, it builds up in the bones and teeth, potentially causing long-term health issues including cognitive delays, behavioral problems, and damage to the kidneys and nervous system. While no incidents have been reported with this specific batch, the potential for harm is real because of the vulnerability of the user group.
It is also important to consider that these items are often given as gifts by grandparents, parents, or relatives who may not realize the hazard. The recipients might be too young to communicate discomfort or symptoms, which means caregivers need to be vigilant. If you have purchased or received these items for a child under the age of six, they are in the highest risk category. Even older children who still engage in oral fixation behaviors should be monitored closely. Taking this recall seriously is not about fear-mongering; it is about protecting the most vulnerable users from a silent, cumulative threat that can have lasting effects on their health and development.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are wondering whether a piece of jewelry in your home belongs to this specific recall, the first step is to verify the brand. The items involved were sold under the name Things Remembered. This is a well-known retailer that specializes in personalized gifts, so if the item was purchased from them or their online store, it is worth a closer look. However, because this recall focuses on specific designs rather than every single product they have ever sold, you need to look at the physical characteristics of the jewelry to be sure.
The recall targets two distinct types of children’s jewelry: silver heart bracelets and sweet charm necklaces. Let’s start with the bracelets. You are looking for a 6-inch, silver-plated chain. The design is quite specific: it features ten small silver hearts linked together by circle links. It fastens with a lobster claw clasp, which is a common type of jewelry closure that looks like a tiny metal lobster claw. Crucially, the bracelet must have one additional charm attached: a single silver heart-shaped charm. If your bracelet matches this description, it falls into the affected group.
Next, check for the necklaces. These are gold-plated and sit on a 13-inch box chain. A key identifier is that the chain includes a 2-inch extender, which allows you to adjust the length slightly. Like the bracelets, these necklaces use a lobster claw closure for fastening. The necklace must have three specific charms attached to it to be part of this recall. These charms are: a pink ice cream cone, a pink crystal cupcake, and a gold-plated tag with the word "SWEET" engraved on it. If you have a necklace that is gold-plated, has these three specific charms, and features the sweet theme, it is likely one of the recalled items.
While the CPSC report does not list specific model numbers or serial numbers to look for, the visual description is detailed enough to help you identify the product. The hazard lies in the clear surface coating on these pieces, which contains lead in excess of federal safety limits. This coating can wear off over time, especially with children playing with it, posing a serious risk if ingested. If you have purchased anything from Things Remembered for a child recently, take the time to check your jewelry box or gift bag against these descriptions. When in doubt, contact their customer service directly rather than guessing, as they can confirm whether your specific item is part of this batch.
What to do — step by step
If you have purchased jewelry from Things Remembered around the time of this recall, the most important thing you can do right now is to pause and take a calm but firm action. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious safety concern involving specific children’s bracelets and necklaces because their clear surface coatings contain lead in excess of federal limits. Lead is a toxic metal that poses significant health risks, particularly to young children who may put jewelry in their mouths or lick it without realizing the danger. Therefore, your immediate priority is to remove these items from any child’s reach. Do not wait for further instructions; simply take the recalled jewelry away from children immediately. This step is critical because even small amounts of ingested lead can cause adverse health issues that affect development and overall well-being. Once the item is safely stored out of sight, you are ready to move on to the next phase: securing your remedy. The remedy provided by Things Remembered for this specific recall is straightforward and generous. You have two primary options for resolution, and both require you to contact the company directly. First, you can request a full refund. This includes not just the cost of the jewelry, but also any shipping charges you may have paid when you originally ordered it. This ensures that you are made whole financially without bearing the cost of the safety issue. Alternatively, if you prefer to keep the gift for someone else or simply want to exchange it, you can opt for a replacement gift of equal value. Both options are fully covered by the manufacturer as part of their commitment to consumer safety and satisfaction. To initiate either of these remedies, you need to reach out to Things Remembered’s customer service team. You can do this in several convenient ways depending on your preference. The most direct method is to call their toll-free number at 866-902-4438. Their representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or want to keep a record of your request, you can send an email to customerservice@thingsremembered.com. Another helpful resource is their website at www.thingsremembered.com. On the site, navigate to the "Company Information" section located at the bottom of the page and click on "Product Recalls." This will provide you with specific details and potentially streamlined instructions for processing your refund or replacement. When you contact them, have your order information ready, such as your order number or proof of purchase if you have it, though the company is equipped to handle cases where documentation might be missing. Be clear about which item you possess—whether it is the silver heart bracelet with ten hearts and a lobster claw clasp, or the gold-plated sweet charm necklace featuring an ice cream cone, cupcake, and "SWEET" tag—and state whether you want a refund or a replacement. The company has confirmed that there have been no reported incidents related to this recall, which is reassuring, but it does not mean we should ignore the potential hazard. By taking these steps now, you are proactively protecting your child’s health and ensuring that you receive the full support promised by the manufacturer. Remember, this process is designed to be easy and stress-free for you, so do not hesitate to reach out today.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled items from Things Remembered, please know that the company has established a clear and customer-friendly remedy to make things right. Because safety is the primary concern here, there is no need to worry about complex return shipping fees or restocking charges. Things Remembered has explicitly committed to covering all costs associated with this recall. This means that whether you choose to receive your money back or swap the item for something else, the process is designed to be as smooth and hassle-free as possible for you.
You have two distinct choices when it comes to resolving this issue with your purchase. First, you may opt for a full refund. This option ensures that you get every penny back that you originally spent on the jewelry, including any shipping charges that were applied at the time of your order. If you prefer not to keep the item in your home due to safety concerns, this is the cleanest way to separate yourself from the product entirely without losing money.
Alternatively, if you still wish to purchase a gift from Things Remembered but simply want a different item that does not carry the lead hazard, you can request a replacement gift of equal value. This allows you to keep your shopping spirit alive while ensuring the new item meets current safety standards. The key here is that the replacement must be of equal value to your original purchase, so you will not have to pay any additional out-of-pocket costs for the upgrade or exchange.
To initiate either of these remedies, you need to contact Things Remembered directly. You can reach their customer support team by calling their toll-free number at 866-902-4438. They are available to assist you from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send photos of the item for verification, you can email them at customerservice@thingsremembered.com. Another helpful resource is their website at www.thingsremembered.com. Once there, look for the "Product Recalls" link located under the "Company Information" section at the very bottom of the page. This dedicated area will provide you with the most up-to-date instructions and forms specific to this recall.
When you contact them, have your original order information ready, such as your order number or receipt, if you have it on hand. While they are committed to helping you regardless, having these details can speed up the process significantly. Remember, the goal here is to remove the hazardous item from your home and ensure you are not financially penalized for doing so. Take your time, choose the option that feels best for your family, and reach out to their support team with confidence.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to discard a piece of jewelry that was likely purchased with love for a special occasion. Perhaps the silver heart bracelet or the sweet charm necklace has become a beloved daily accessory, and the thought of returning it feels like a burden. However, ignoring this recall poses a serious, silent threat that goes far beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue here is not just that the item is defective, but that it contains lead in the clear surface coating. Lead is a potent neurotoxin, particularly dangerous for developing bodies, and its presence in children’s jewelry creates a direct pathway for poison to enter a child’s system through normal play habits.
The danger lies in the invisible nature of the hazard. You cannot see, smell, or taste the lead leaching from the coating. As children wear these bracelets and necklaces, their hands are constantly touching the item, transferring microscopic particles to their mouths. Young children explore the world orally, putting jewelry in their mouths to chew on it during teething or simply out of habit. Over time, this repeated exposure can lead to a buildup of lead in the bloodstream. Unlike some acute injuries that happen instantly, lead poisoning is cumulative. Even low levels of exposure over weeks or months can interfere with cognitive development, potentially causing irreversible learning disabilities, attention deficits, and behavioral problems later in childhood.
We must also consider the physical reality of wearing jewelry. The silver-plated bracelets and gold-plated necklaces described in this recall are subject to wear and tear. Everyday activities, swimming, bathing, and even friction from clothing can degrade the clear protective coating. As this coating breaks down, the lead-rich material is exposed and more easily transferred to skin and subsequently ingested. While the CPSC has not reported any specific incidents of injury or illness linked to these particular items as of the recall date in July 2016, the absence of reported cases does not mean the risk is zero. It simply means that widespread harm has not yet been documented, which is precisely why immediate action is critical to prevent it.
Continuing to use these items also normalizes unsafe practices for children regarding jewelry. It sends a mixed message about safety standards and trust in consumer products. By allowing your child to keep wearing these pieces, you are inadvertently exposing them to a known chemical hazard that has been banned from such products because the risks outweigh any aesthetic or sentimental value. The potential consequences—ranging from subtle developmental delays to acute lead poisoning symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, and fatigue—are not worth preserving a memory attached to a toxic object. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is safe from invisible toxins is far more valuable than keeping a piece of jewelry that may have caused harm.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a particular manufacturing defect in children’s jewelry, the underlying issue—lead exposure—is a pervasive concern that extends far beyond any single brand or product line. Lead is a cumulative toxin, meaning it builds up in the body over time, and young children are uniquely vulnerable because their developing brains and nervous systems absorb lead more easily than adults do. One of the most effective ways to protect your family is to adopt a proactive mindset regarding the items you bring into your home. Not every product with potential risks will carry a high-profile recall, so relying solely on news alerts is not enough. Instead, make it a habit to regularly check official databases like those maintained by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These agencies update their information frequently, and a quick monthly scan can help you identify hidden dangers before they become a problem.
When it comes to jewelry, especially items intended for children or worn by pregnant individuals, understanding the materials is crucial. Many inexpensive costume jewelry pieces may contain lead in the plating, the alloy, or even the glue used to attach charms and gems. The clear coating mentioned in this recall is just one example of how hazardous materials can be concealed beneath a shiny, appealing surface. To minimize risk, prioritize jewelry made from verified safe materials such as sterling silver, gold, stainless steel, or titanium. If you are unsure about an item’s composition, look for markings that indicate the metal type and authenticity. For older heirlooms or items purchased from antique shops, consider having them tested by a professional jeweler who can use non-destructive methods to check for lead content.
Beyond jewelry, it is vital to remember that children explore their world through touch and taste. This natural curiosity makes them susceptible to ingesting toxins from various sources, including painted toys, older furniture, and even certain types of crafts. Ensure that any toys or accessories in your home meet current safety standards, which strictly limit heavy metals. Regularly inspect these items for signs of wear, such as chipping paint or exposed metal, which can release particles into the environment. Additionally, maintain good hygiene practices by washing children’s hands frequently, especially before eating and after playing with any objects that may have been in contact with soil, dust, or older household items. By staying informed and vigilant about the materials your family interacts with daily, you create a safer, healthier environment for everyone.