Are children's earrings allowed to be worn at school?
Answer: My understanding of public schools in Australia, is that small, unobtrusive, non dangly, stud earrings are allowed. Private schools each have their own rule about jewellery worn by students.
What age must a baby be before she can have her ears pierced?
Answer: According to a paediatrician who wrote an article about this very subject, three months is the preferred age. Many cultures have their babies' ears pierced much earlier, but the reason given was that this gives baby time to build her immune system up in case of infection while the piercing is healing. Baby earrings with firmly fitting nuts (or backs) are very safe because baby doesn't even know they're there and won't pluck at them. Sterling silver, stainless steel or gold are the preferred metals for baby and children's earrings.
Are baby necklaces safe?
Provided supervision is given while baby is wearing her necklace, they are safe, and provided no lead, nickel or cadmium is used. These metals are found in some cheap "fashion" jewellery found in "Dollar shops." Sterling silver, gold, pearls and enamelling is safe. When baby is put down to sleep, remove her necklace in case she breaks it in her sleep, then wakes up and puts components into her mouth.
What to buy - a baby bracelet or baby bangle?
Baby bangles are the safest of all baby jewellery. But add safety chains or charms, as do many baby bangles these days, and they become potential choking hazards. Baby jewellery is made very strong (because babies can be strong!) but if she breaks a piece off and is without supervision, she can pop it into her mouth. Let your baby wear her bangle or bracelet for outings, special occasions and her portraits, then, when she is put down to sleep, remove them. So the choice is really personal. Both can be purchased with extensions for growth which make them great value as a gift that she can wear for years.