My ears are very sensitive to metals, even pure silver and gold. After reading the reviews of these surgical steel earrings I decided to try them. In addition, the price was unbeatable. The metal on the earrings looks rather matte so they really aren't that shiny. The backs that hold the rivets in place are a little difficult to put on at first, but that's okay. I decided to keep the earrings and wear them as long as possible. The first night I wore them to bed I had a slight irritation but not