I have allergic reactions to most metals except for sterling silver, gold or platinum. Unfortunately, even though these earrings are supposed to be sterling silver, I can't wear them for more than an hour without my ears swelling and weeping - even if I am taking an antihistamine. I am very sad that I can't wear these earrings anymore, because they are very pretty, and really are nicer to look at than depicted. For anyone who normally gets around metal allergies by painting the backs with clear nail polish - I tried this with this pair, and I still had a reaction. Worrying. The packaging was nice - if excessive. I received two jewellery boxes, one contained the earrings, and the other contained a little velvet drawstring bag. Both of these were in an envelope and then in a large box.