JEWELRY WITHOUT EAR-ITATION Numerous companies make hypoallergenic earrings by using surgical steel wires or posts. However, Roman Research in Hanson, MA, takes a different route, one which the firm says insures that people with contact dermatitis (skin sensitivity) can wear jewelry that is not made of karat gold. The gold tone jewelry made by Roman Research consists of surgical stainless steel with a 24-karat gold plating. Its silver tone earrings are made of polished surgical stainless steel. Roman Research also makes jewelry with acrylics and enamels that are safe for sensitive skin. The company backs its jewelry, which carries the Simply Whispers brand name, with a lifetime guarantee against skin irritation. Other products sold by Roman Research include Misty Drops, which are for routine ear care - particularly newly pierced ears - and for cleaning earrings. In addition, the company markets a line of EarReplaceables, which are light, surgical stainless steel earring clasps, bullet backs, hooks and kidney wires used for replacing lost or broken earring components. These items also are guaranteed to be hypoallergenic. - ACCENT MAGAZINE, January, 1989