The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) received a report of a six-year-old girl who developed elevated lead levels in her blood that may have occurred after placing the charms in her mouth.
Identifying the Recalled Charms
- Sold under the name “Charming Thoughts™”
- Most of the charms are silver-colored with small silver loops
- Sold in packages of two to 12 pieces
- Marked “The Card Connection™,” “Charming Thoughts™” and “Hirschberg Schutz & Co. Inc.”
- Look at a photo of the recalled charms
The recalled charms were sold in a variety of shapes including small hearts, crowns, birds, picture frames, perfume bottles and a cross. Some of the charms have small blue, pink or yellow stones and might have words imprinted on them, including “princess,” “congratulations,” “city girl,” “world traveler” and “life’s blessings.” “Insert photo here,” “cherish,” “love,” and “honor” are printed on the picture frame charms.
The metal charms were intended to be used to adorn decorations such as place cards, greeting cards, collages, memory boxes, gift cards, scrapbooks, invitations and gift bags, but are also easy to attach to necklaces and bracelets.
Where the Charms Were Sold
The CPSC says that the charms were sold at Michaels Stores from July 2002 through February 2005, at Recollections stores from October 2004 through February 2005, and at Hancock Fabrics stores from January 2004 through January 2005. They were priced from $3 to $4 per card. However, I saw a recall notice at another department store recently. I'm not certain it involved this recall, but to be safe be sure to check the status of all similar charms you've purchased.
All of the charms were manufactured in China.
Dangers of Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning in children is can result in behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation.
How to Return the Charms
Take the charms from children immediately, then contact Hirschberg Schutz & Co. at (800) 873-5506 to receive a refund. You can e-mail the firm at charmsrecall@horizongroupusa.com.
Source: CPSC Press Release
