Abstract: A multiple-layered metallic article useful for example, as costume jewelry having an intermediate "brightening layer" of bronze. A barrier layer selected from the group comprising palladium, tin, tin/zinc, rhodium, or platinum is disposed between the bronze "brightening layer" and a "top coat" layer to avoid migration of the copper component in the bronze layer to the outer surface of the article which, if left unimpeded eventually would result in a tarnishing effect to the article. As a result of the bronze intermediate layer, the article is hypo-allergenic with respect to those people having a skin sensitivity to nickel-plated or nickel-underplated metallic articles.