What Is Permanent Jewelry? Everything You Need to Know Before Getting One

Written by Dr. Usama Hassan

Last Updated on March 7, 2025

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Hey, are you sick of wearing and changing everyday fashion wear jewelry but on the other side you are fond of jewelry as well. You might have heard the name of permanent jewelry before and that’s why you are here searching for good information before going through the process.

Articles Contains

What is Permanent Jewelry?
Materials Used
Process
Duration and Maintenance
When and How Permanent Jewelry is Removed?
Potential Risks or Downsides
Cost and Affordability
Conclusion
Key Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions
References

What is Permanent Jewelry?

It’s a type of jewelry that is like the typical ones except that it does not have any clasps or locks for fixing or tying it. It is welded around the neck, wrists, and ankles, or it can be in the form of a necklace, bracelet, anklet ring, earrings or nose, or dermal piercings whatever you like. Some people may also choose tooth gems or grills depending upon your taste of jewelry. It symbolizes love, bond, sentimentality, commitment, and connection with someone beloved, partner, or family. [1]

Popularity and Trends

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If you check hashtags around permanent jewelry on Instagram and other platforms, you will find more than 20,000 hits. So its everywhere lately.

Chrissy Teigen is a model and TV personality recognized for her bold fashion choices. She was an early adopter of permanent jewelry, sporting a delicate gold bracelet. This piece symbolizes lasting family bonds and love.

Kylie Jenner is leading the trend in permanent jewelry with her sleek anklet, reflecting her glamorous lifestyle and preference for bespoke accessories. Her choice has increased interest in permanent leg jewelry, highlighting her influential style.

Justin and Hailey Bieber have taken their commitment to the next level with matching permanent bracelets, symbolizing their love and dedication. This romantic gesture has inspired many couples to consider permanent jewelry as a modern twist on traditional symbols of affection.

Bella Hadid has embraced the permanent jewelry trend with a minimalist chain that enhances her edgy style. This choice shows that permanent jewelry is versatile and timeless, fitting seamlessly into any wardrobe.

Zoë Kravitz, a style icon, has embraced permanent jewelry with a chic necklace that reflects her effortless, eclectic fashion. Known for blending bohemian and modern elements, this piece showcases her unique style. [4]

Materials Used

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14k Gold; if you want a hypoallergenic, durable, resistant to tarnishing, and lifetime product that won’t irritate your skin, it’s the best choice.
14k Gold-Filled; it is a more affordable alternative to solid gold having a thick layer of 14k gold bonded to the base metal having similar characteristics.
Sterling Silver; it is also affordable, beautiful and relatively durable. It will just require buffing to keep shine.
Titanium; titanium is a good choice for people with sensitive skin or active lifestyles. However, it can be duller as compared to silver or gold. It is strong and lightweight.
Stainless Steel; a good budget option, affordable and durable. But it can scratch more easily and is not hypoallergenic for everyone.
Gold or Silver Plated; is not a good one, but can be an option for short-term wear as they tarnish and wear quickly.

So the choice of material depends not only on aesthetic preference but also on durability, skin sensitivity, and affordability. Each material has its own benefits. [2]

Quick Tips

Choose a wrist opposite of your watch wearing wrist.
Don’t wear too tight bracelets.
Don’t wear too loose bracelets that snag on doorknobs or corners.
Super delicate chains are likely to snap.
People with sensitive skin should choose highest karat gold.
Use a Dawn dish soap and a wash cloth or old toothbrush to get into the grooves, then wipe it with an eyeglass cleaning cloth.
For silver bracelets, you can even slip on a latex glove and carefully clean with brush-and-rinse silver polish .
Excessive contact with hand sanitizer, lotion, hairspray, natural hot spring water, or even certain chlorinated pools and hot tubs can alter your jewelry’s color.
Make sure to ask about reattachment policies! Many permanent jewelers have a courtesy repair for the first break or a small fee to reattach thereafter. [3]

Process

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Acquiring permanent jewelry is a simple and painless process. The welding method utilized is safe and can be done comfortably in the comfort of your home or a public space. Trained professionals, known as Linkers, will provide a protective layer to cover your skin, and optional safety sunglasses are available for added precaution. While you won’t feel the welding itself, you will be able to hear and see it as it occurs.

Getting linked involves a straightforward five-step process:

Select a Chain: Choose from a variety of 14k solid gold options.
Choose a Charm: You may also opt for a simple chain if you prefer.
Pick Your Placement: Decide whether you want a bracelet, necklace, anklet, or ring.
Custom-Fit It: Collaborate with your trained Linker to ensure the perfect fit.
Weld It On: You’re officially linked! [5]

Duration and Maintenance

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Permanent jewelry can last from one to several years, depending on individual lifestyle and care. Danielle Watt from River Valley Designs mentions her chains have lasted nearly two years due to her less active routine. Christine Coughlin of Flash and Fuse notes that gold-fill metal can last at least two years with proper care, but factors like tanning and swimming can affect longevity. Kim Thompson from Love, Eros emphasizes the importance of metal quality, stating that solid gold pieces often last longer. If a chain breaks, it’s advisable to return to the artist for repairs, which are usually done for free or a small fee. [6]

Investing in high-quality permanent jewelry can provide a lifetime of use. However, it is not indestructible.

Keep In Mind:

Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals in cleaners, chlorine, and cosmetics to prevent tarnishing. Regularly polish sterling silver and use silver polish for tarnish.
While permanent jewelry can handle daily wear, avoid extended exposure to saltwater or chlorine. Rinse with fresh water afterward to protect it. [13]

When and How Permanent Jewelry Is Removed?

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Even dedicated jewelry lovers may eventually grow tired of wearing the same piece, especially if it becomes worn.

Changing Tastes and Preferences: Over time, our clothing styles may change, leading to a shift in what we consider ideal or attractive. What once seemed perfect may no longer align with our current preferences.
Medical Issues or Complications: Temporary removal of jewelry may be necessary due to allergies, discomfort, or to facilitate medical procedures, such as surgery.
Professional or Social Considerations: Certain workplaces or social settings may have dress codes that prohibit the wearing of permanent, ornate jewelry.

Removal Techniques

Removing permanent jewelry is relatively simple. You can use scissors to cut it off at home. However, ensure that you cut it in the correct spot to maintain a seamless appearance for future use. This will also make it easier to reattach the jewelry later with a quick re-welding. [12]

Potential Risks Or Downsides

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Metal Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to metals like nickel in gold-filled jewelry. Please inform the artists of any allergies before getting a permanent piece. Generally, 14k gold is safe for most. [7]

Swelling and Tightness: Body size can change due to factors like injury, heat, or pregnancy, affecting jewelry fit. Discuss any concerns with your jewelry artist beforehand. [7]

Lifestyle impacts safety,” says Shari Tammietti, Owner of Permanent Jewelry Training. “If you’re a firefighter who can’t wear a wedding ring, permanent jewelry isn’t for you. But if your lifestyle permits, it’s safe.

Medical Procedures: What about X-rays, CAT scans, and MRIs? Permanent jewelry can be removed and reattached easily with nail clippers. Since these procedures are rare for most, don’t let the need to remove jewelry stop you from choosing permanent options. [8]

Sports and Workplace: Many sports and workplaces prohibit you from wearing jewelry and that also includes permanent jewelry of course.

Cost and Affordability

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Purchasing permanent jewelry is slightly different from traditional jewelry. Some brands charge more for the jewelry application and the cost of the individual pieces. When people ask how much do permanent bracelets cost, the answer ranges from $35 to $200.[11]
At Catbird, prices start at $98 for the Sweet Nothing chain and go up to $348 for the Lover’s Chain. You can also add a diamond for an additional $118 and a star charm for an extra $48. [9]
Typically, sterling silver permanent jewelry is the most affordable option, with some pieces starting at below $50.
Gold fill and sterling silver bracelets start at $50+
Gold, including rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold, bracelets start at $100+ [10]

CONCLUSION

We have discussed nearly all aspects of permanent jewelry, including its pros and cons. Now, it’s up to you to decide whether you’re adventurous enough to wear permanent jewelry or if you prefer to wear it for a shorter period. With proper care and maintenance, anyone can manage well with this increasingly popular trend. Celebrities serve as a significant motivation for many, influencing people to at least try it out once.

Key Takeaways

Permanent jewelry lacks traditional clasps, making it a popular choice for symbolizing deep emotional bonds, like love or commitment.
Welded styles can be found in necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and rings. Celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Justin Bieber have helped make this trend desirable.
Jewelry made from 14k gold is strong and hypoallergenic.
Gold-filled options are budget-friendly
Sterling silver tarnishes and needs regular maintenance.
Titanium is lightweight and suitable for sensitive skin, and stainless steel is cost-effective but prone to scratches.
Gold or silver plated items can wear away quickly and are not ideal for daily use.
It’s recommended to wear welded bracelets on the opposite wrist from your dominant hand for comfort. Finding the right size is crucial to avoid discomfort or loss.
Regular cleaning helps retain appearance and prevents tarnish.
Custom designs can be created with a jewelry designer for a personalized look, achieved by fusing the ends to create a permanent piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Permanent Jewelry Tarnish?

Of course. Like all jewelry, you should clean your bracelet or anklet often. Chemicals you find in pools will tarnish your permanent jewelry. Gold is less likely to tarnish than any other metal.

Does Permanent Jewelry Interfere with TSA?

No. Our fine TSA officers don't ask you to remove jewelry when going through airport security. Permanent jewelry is jewelry and doesn't have to come off.

Is It Comfortable To Sleep In Permanent Jewelry?

Welded jewelry is perfectly comfortable to sleep in. It is so lightweight & comfortable, you may not even notice it.

How long will permanent jewelry last?

Permanent jewelry will last for years with the right amount of care.