央视曝光沙金首饰销售乱象：出厂价10元，卖到上百元

Core Viewpoint - The rise of "sand gold" jewelry, which mimics the appearance of gold but is made from low-cost materials, has gained popularity among consumers seeking affordable alternatives due to high gold prices [1][7]. Group 1: Product Characteristics - "Sand gold" jewelry is marketed as being visually similar to gold, with claims of being colorfast and resistant to burning, yet it is sold at significantly lower prices, typically ranging from a few hundred yuan [1]. - The term "sand gold" refers to minerals formed from weathered gold-bearing rocks, which contain about 5% gold; however, many sellers do not clarify the actual gold content in their products [2][3]. - Most "sand gold" products are made from brass with a thin layer of gold plating (0.05 microns), which can wear off over time, leading to questions about their durability [4][5]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The market for "sand gold" jewelry is thriving, with some sellers reporting monthly sales exceeding 100,000 units, indicating a strong consumer demand [3]. - The production cost of these brass-plated items is around 10 yuan, but they are sold for approximately 40 yuan in street markets and can reach over 100 yuan in online live streams, highlighting significant markup [6][7]. Group 3: Health and Safety Concerns - Many "sand gold" products contain little to no actual gold and are primarily copper-nickel alloys, raising concerns about potential allergic reactions due to nickel release, which can exceed safety limits [8][9]. - The prevalence of skin conditions related to metal allergies is common, with nickel being a frequent allergen, prompting consumer complaints about allergic reactions from wearing "sand gold" jewelry [10][11]. Group 4: Legal and Regulatory Issues - There are legal implications for sellers of "sand gold" jewelry who engage in false advertising, as they may face penalties under criminal law for misrepresenting their products [11].