The comparative properties of Roman Research ear piercing studs and samples of similar studs submitted for assessment A report by Professor John Zotos, Materials & Metallurgical Consultant & Lecturer PROTOCOL Gold plated ear piercing studs from two sources, i.e., Roman Research brand products and samples derived from another manufacturer were assessed microscopically and then mounted, polished, and etched in the laboratory and examined metallographically to fully ascertain their properties. The studs were examined for plating and material quality and defects. CONCLUSION Defects found in the samples produced by the other supplier do pose a potential danger to a person's earlobe. The comparative properties of the two brands of ear piercing studs assessed during this investigation clearly shows that the Roman Research products possess excellent surface, plating, and edge characteristics while the other studs submitted for joint study seem to be in a poor risk' category due to their various defects. Thus, in my professional opinion, I would not hesitate to classify the Roman Research ear piercing studs as being hypo-allergenic. On the other hand, I would be very reluctant to classify the ear piercing studs from the other supplier assessed during this study as being hypoallergenic until I have more samples from their product line selected at random from their regular production. Synopsis. Full report available upon request.