I found cadmium (Cd) in “Origins” makeup (from 2017), using an XRF instrument. Click here to learn more about XRF testing. When I tested this makeup [Origins “Pinch Your Cheeks” Powder Blush] I was quite surprised to find that it tested positive for cadmium at levels that I would consider more than “trace” for a […]
This vintage (c. 1940s?) Hanson Nursery Scale captures the scope of the historic pervasive footprint of lead paint in one single simple object… …a BABY SCALE painted with leaded paint. Really I don’t know that any more needs to be said about this. The paint on this piece was just about 4,500 ppm lead when […]
#AskTamara Question: Is there lead in my sex toys? [I get this question ALL THE TIME! LOL!] Answer: As with most things (when it comes to lead) the most important factor in determining if your sex-toys might have lead (or other heavy metals or toxicants) is when they were manufactured! [When as in “which century” or […]
#AskTamara Question: Do you recommend Corning Visionware? Answer: No. Ok, while I could leave it at that I will elaborate. First I have to address the fact that several people have confused me with other bloggers who DO recommend Corning Visionware, and I specifically have not ever recommended this product personally — because I have […]
This is a set of Bauer Vintage Celadon Pottery, Made In Los Angeles and purchased at an antique store in Portland, Oregon in 2017. When tested with an XRF instrument each of the pieces tested positive for the elements at the levels shown below. Note: the lead levels below are VERY HIGH, and I would […]
This “Expert Gardener” “Light Duty” garden hose was tested new on the shelf in Walmart in 2017. Only the plastic part of the hose was tested and it was positive for lead (Pb) at 52 parts per million. 52 ppm lead is a relatively low level of lead, but I would still have concerns for […]
When this Franciscan Desert Rose Earthenware China (Made in the USA, c. 1941 and later) was tested with an XRF instrument it came in at 122,200 +/- 5,000 ppm lead. It is negative for Cd (cadmium), As (arsenic) and Hg (mercury), however that is one heck of a lot of lead to be found in […]
This is a Franciscan Potteries vintage “Ivy” pattern serving tray that I got at the Good Will Bins a while back (to add to my “Museum of Lead” collection!) The interesting thing about glazes (especially on pieces that are handmade or hand-painted) is that the levels of lead can vary significantly across the surface of […]
When tested with an XRF instrument the Christmas tree on this Homer Laughlin Fiestaware Made In The U.S.A. mug was non-detect (ND) for lead (Pb). It did test positive for cadmium (Cd) at 61 +/- 9 ppm. The bottom of mug was also positive for low levels of lead and cadmium: Pb: 23 +/- 12 ppm […]
Vintage Pyrex Spring Blossom Green Cups: The dark green/almost black paint on these mugs tested positive for the following elements at the following levels (with a one-minute test, using an XRF instrument): Lead (Pb): 39,300 +/- 1,600 ppm Cadmium (Cd): 833 +/- 61 ppm Arsenic (As): ND Mercury (Hg): ND Platinum (Pt): 1,017 +/- 264 […]
