Core Viewpoint - The rise of "sand gold" jewelry, which resembles gold but is much cheaper, has led to concerns about false advertising, unclear materials, and health risks following exposure by CCTV [1] Market Overview - Sand gold jewelry is priced between 25 to 128 yuan, appealing particularly to young consumers who prioritize aesthetics over material knowledge [2][3] - The popularity of sand gold has declined, with many consumers reporting issues of discoloration after a short period of use [5] - While physical stores show a decrease in sand gold sales, online platforms continue to offer a wide range of these products, often with misleading claims of durability [6] Material Composition and Health Risks - Sand gold is primarily made of nickel and copper, with a very thin layer of gold plating, leading to low gold content and potential health hazards [7][9] - The thin gold layer can wear off quickly, exposing the base metals that may cause skin allergies and other health issues [7][9] - Reports indicate that some sand gold jewelry has nickel release levels exceeding safe limits, which can lead to allergic reactions and other serious health problems [9][10] Consumer Guidance - Consumers are advised to purchase jewelry from reputable sources and to verify material labels and certification [9] - The market trend suggests that alternatives like gold-plated silver may offer better durability and safety compared to sand gold [9]