Jewellery findings base nickel is just one of the few materials that jewellery-makers have at their disposal when creating jewellery. More often than not, jewellery makers begin as hobbyists or collectors: they either make jewellery for their own use because commercially-viable ones do not meet their requirements; or they make jewellery because they want a creative outlet during their free time. Inevitably, however, most jewellery-makers end up selling some of their products or customizing products for individual clients. Usually, this profit motivation is driven by the need to finance their hobby, or just find some additional benefit to their craft.

This obviously creates the need for them to take a market of customers into consideration. This of course, not only relates to design considerations, but also to consideration for the welfare of the client. As regards design, the need to think
of the client is mitigated by the ability of the designer to meet the client, talk about their expectations, and consult on design plans.

However, the health and safety of clients is an entirely different issue. The occurrence of allergies to nickel, for instance, has grown over time. Some studies show that about 15 percent of people tested for allergies show some reaction to nickel. Unfavourable reaction of the skin to contact with nickel is called contact dermatitis. Often, redness, swelling, itching, and a burning sensation are symptoms of contact dermatitis. This sensitivity is triggered by prolonged exposure to nickel, as when nickel-plated earrings are worn.

This is the reason why many jewellery-makers offer sterling silver alternatives to their jewellery, in order to suit the needs of people with more sensitive skin. Sterling silver, with no nickel content, offers far less risk of sensitive reaction from skin exposure and contact.