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Medical Identification Jewelry

Medical identification jewelry is becoming more common. People have been using them for quite a few years now. However, they have become increasingly available in unique forms and better quality. It is now possible to order medical ID bracelets and other forms of medical ID jewelry in precious metals such as gold, sterling silver, titanium and the traditional stainless/surgical steel.

What are they for?

Medical ID bracelets often have an emblem or words etched or engraved into them which serve as a notice to medical practitioners, especially EMT's, of any preexisting medical conditions the wearer may have. They allow the paramedics responding to your medical emergency to learn things about your medical history when you are unable to speak for yourself. They have come to replace the old fashioned Medical ID cards that people kept in their wallets or purses.

Different types of medical jewelry

Medical jewelry typically comes in the form of pendants for necklaces or bracelets which the owner wears at all times as to be prepared for a medical emergency. Some medical alert jewelry is simply engraved with the carrier's medical conditions such as diabetes, drug allergies, autism, and anaphylactic allergies. Other medical ID jewelry may contain an emblem which signifies their condition. In addition to the ID jewelry, they may carry a telephone number of the bearer's emergency contact or physician who can provide more detailed information about the patient's medical history.

Many forms of Medical ID jewelry will contain a panic button or a voice activated emergency signal as well. This function serves to alert 911 or the bearer's medical company about any medical emergency, without the person having to call in. It is usually only functional in the person's home, and works with a wireless medical alert system. The most recent types of jewelry have started coming along with Micro SD cards or USB flash drives which can contain a complete record of the bearer's medical history, preexisting conditions, emergency contacts and a list of the person's medication. They often have virtual copies of previous x-rays and a schedule of their previous doctor's appointments along with diagnoses and any other pertinent information. Another digital option that has been popular recently engraved a scannable QR bar code that will take display a mobile-friendly webpage with the medical id owner's information.

What are they made of?

Medical alert bracelets are now being made from many different types of materials including gold, silver, titanium, and special 316L stainless steel. These are the main materials used, however you can get them in leather, rubber, nylon, hemp, and a wide array of materials depending on what you want. Each of the four materials mentioned earlier have their own benefits, so you should be precise when choosing one.

Gold and Silver

Gold and silver were historically the most common choices for medical ID jewelry because they were generally more aesthetically appealing, and are materials people wore on a daily basis. It is important to get pure gold or pure sterling silver jewelry, because plated jewelry often erodes quickly, whereas pure jewelry is highly resistant to corrosion from daily use, chemicals, and water.

Titanium

Titanium is one of the most lightweight and uniquely colored metals and is ideal for people who want a medical ID's in the form of a pendant. It is not as resistant as stainless steel, rather, it has a chic look and can be used on a daily basis for various types of functions. Titanium is also a great option for people who are on a budget, since it is more affordable than gold or silver.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel jewelry is one of the most widespread forms of medical identification and has been used for this purpose for a quite some time. They are ideal for people who spend time outdoors, or who do a lot of work with their hands since stainless steel is one of the most durable and scratch resistant metals. It is usually heavier and thicker when molded into medical jewelry, and for this reason, the engravings are typically very deep which allows the bearer use for long periods of time, having the information remain visible even as the material wears down. It can be shined and is ideal for people who enjoy wearing jewelry to formal functions or on an everyday basis.

Other

Lately medical id jewelry has been much more sensitive to fashion, and as such, the materials being used have varied with trends. Leather and hemp, silicon, Velcro and more have been used to meet the life requirements of the wearers.

It is important to consider every option before committing to your medical jewelry in order to ensure utmost satisfaction with your decision. Be sure it is something you will feel comfortable wearing on a regular basis that will suit your lifestyle. Whether you are a gardener, outdoorsman, or a frequent attendee of formal functions, there is something out there for you. Remember that the most ineffective Medical ID is the one not worn.

Written by Chris Morgan at Sticky Jewerly, a personalized jewelry business.

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