Ever found yourself rushing out the door, leaving your jewelry behind because fiddling with clasps seemed too time-consuming? Perhaps there’s that one piece you wear everywhere – from school to the gym, even in the shower. Or maybe you’re prone to misplacing jewelry, despite your best efforts to keep track of it. If any of these situations resonate with you, it might be time to consider permanent jewelry.
While permanent jewelry may be making waves on TikTok, it’s more than just a passing trend. It’s a novel means of self-expression, a way to immortalize cherished memories, and a conduit for creating enchanting moments with loved ones.
In this piece, we’ll address common queries about permanent jewelry. We’ll walk you through the process, explore popular styles, and offer insider tips for your own permanent jewelry journey!
What is permanent jewelry?
Permanent jewelry encompasses pieces that are welded rather than fastened with a hook or clasp. While the term commonly applies to bracelets and anklets, permanent rings and necklaces are also available. Among these, bracelets currently reign as the most sought-after style.
Typically, permanent jewelry styles feature delicate and minimalist chains, available in various metal hues like yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, or silver. Providers of permanent jewelry typically offer an assortment of chain link styles, including curb links, cable links, and paperclip links, as well as varying chain gauges (thicknesses).
How Permanent Jewelry Functions
The procedure is straightforward, swift, and completely painless. Initially, you’ll select the chain of your choice. A skilled jeweler will then measure out the appropriate length of chain to suit your wrist, ankle, neck, or finger, depending on the type of jewelry you’ve chosen. Next, they’ll apply a protective barrier, such as a piece of fabric.
Using a small jewelry welder, your jeweler will swiftly fuse the ends of the chain together. While you may hear a ‘zap’ and witness a flash of light, you won’t feel a thing. It’s worth noting that the welding tools will never make contact with your skin at any point during the process.
Is it safe?
Under the skilled hands of a professional jeweler, the process is entirely safe. With ample experience in utilizing tools like jewelry welders, jewelers adhere to strict safety protocols and procedures. Additionally, they ensure all necessary precautions are in place. Moreover, professional jewelers often offer higher-quality materials compared to those found in online kits. For these reasons, we highly recommend entrusting the creation of your permanent jewelry to a local professional jeweler.
What Makes Permanent Jewelry Worthwhile?
There are various motivations behind opting for permanent jewelry. Picture it as a grown-up rendition of a friendship bracelet – a meaningful keepsake to hold a reminder of someone dear close to your heart. Some individuals choose it to commemorate significant milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations. Others embrace it as part of a collective experience, such as a bachelorette party.
While it’s common to acquire permanent jewelry alongside family, friends, or other cherished individuals, many also opt for it independently. Whether marking a personal milestone or simply treating oneself, investing in hassle-free yet beautiful jewelry is a delightful, uncomplicated, and affordable way to celebrate life’s small joys.
The Lifespan of Permanent Jewelry
With proper care, your jewelry can endure for years, designed to withstand the demands of daily wear and the rigors of your everyday routine. However, it’s essential to recognize that it’s not impervious to damage. Like any jewelry, it remains susceptible to impacts, bumps, snags, or contact with sharp objects.
If crafted from quality materials, your jewelry should resist tarnishing. It should be suitable for wear during light workouts, in the pool, shower, school, or in any job not involving heavy manual labor. However, if you lead an exceptionally active lifestyle, permanent jewelry might not align with your needs. Consider your profession and hobbies before opting for a permanent piece. Engaging in manual labor, contact sports, or activities posing a risk of snagging or tearing may increase the likelihood of breakage.
Navigating Airport Security with Permanent Jewelry
While we cannot offer absolute assurances, it’s highly improbable that your jewelry will impede your travels. Generally, the TSA does not mandate the removal of fine jewelry, so your permanent pieces shouldn’t pose issues during airport security checks. In rare instances where your permanent bracelet, anklet, necklace, or ring triggers a metal detector, the TSA may conduct further screening.
Can it be removed?
Absolutely! If you ever wish to remove your jewelry, it can be carefully detached with scissors. If you’re hesitant to do so yourself, your local jeweler will gladly assist you.
Before acquiring your jewelry, consider inquiring about your jeweler’s removal and re-welding policies. Some jewelers provide one or more complimentary reattachments in the event your jewelry breaks or needs removal for any reason.
How much is permanent jewelry?
The cost varies depending on the source, but typically, 14k gold options start around $100, while silver tends to be less expensive. Jewelers often price per inch of chain, so anticipate a higher cost for a necklace compared to a bracelet. Additionally, if you choose to add charms or other embellishments, expect an additional charge for those details.
Potential Allergic Reactions to Permanent Jewelry
While uncommon, allergic reactions are possible. To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience, we recommend inquiring with your jeweler about the metals used in their permanent jewelry beforehand.
Reputable jewelers typically use 14k gold chains, a quality and durable metal that resists tarnishing. However, as 14k gold is an alloy, it may contain trace amounts of other metals that could trigger skin reactions in some individuals.
If you’ve never worn 14k gold, it’s advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist beforehand. They can help determine if you have any allergies safely. If you do, don’t fret – you may need to seek out a permanent jewelry provider offering 18k or 24k gold chains, or opt for a different metal like silver. While this extra step may seem inconvenient, it’s preferable to investing in a permanent bracelet that causes discomfort.
