Jewellery has been a part of human culture for thousands of years, and today there are countless types of jewellery. Two popular categories of jewellery are fashion jewellery and piercing jewellery.
While they may seem similar at first glance, there are important differences between these two types of jewellery that can impact their safety, comfort, and style.
Fashion jewellery is designed to be an affordable and trendy accessory that can be easily swapped out to match different outfits and occasions. It is often made from inexpensive materials like plastic, glass, or base metals and features bright colours, bold patterns, and intricate details.
On the other hand, piercing jewellery is designed to be worn continuously in a piercing and is often made from high-quality materials like surgical steel, titanium, or gold, which are safe for the body.
Why is this difference important?
It is paramount to select the right type of jewellery for your piercing. Not only does it need to be compatible with the skin around your piercing, but it also needs to match your lifestyle and personal style.
Piercing jewellery is specifically designed to be safe for use in piercings, while fashion jewellery may not be, as you can wear any necklace, ring, bangles or bracelet material because they are not to be inserted in any hole. However, piercing jewellery goes into your body; its material should be safer and more comfortable.
Piercing jewellery is designed to be worn in a specific part of the body and is made to fit that body part properly. In contrast, fashion jewellery is designed to be worn as a decorative accessory. That is why we tell our customers to know the difference.
Fashion jewellery material
Fashion jewellery is often made from a variety of inexpensive materials that are easily accessible and can be fashioned into trendy and stylish pieces.
Plastic: One of the most popular materials in fashion jewellery, plastic is affordable, lightweight, and easy to mould into different shapes and sizes. It is often used to create colourful and playful pieces like bangles, earrings, and necklaces.
Glass: Glass is another popular material used in fashion jewellery, especially for creating beads, pendants, and other decorative elements. It comes in various colours and finishes and can be faceted or moulded into different shapes.
Base metals: Base metals like brass, copper, and nickel are commonly used in fashion jewellery due to their affordability and durability. These metals can be plated with gold, silver, or other finishes to create a variety of styles and designs.
Piercing jewellery material
Piercing jewellery is designed to be worn continuously in a piercing, which means that it needs to be made from materials that are safe for the body and won’t cause irritation or infection.
Surgical steel: Surgical steel is a popular material for piercing jewellery due to its durability, resistance to corrosion, and biocompatibility. It is often used for initial piercings and is available in a range of colours and finishes.
Titanium: Titanium is another popular material for piercing jewellery due to its hypoallergenic properties and corrosion resistance. It is often used for sensitive piercings and can be anodised to create a range of colours.
Gold: Gold is a luxurious and durable material that is often used for high-end piercing jewellery. It is hypoallergenic and can be alloyed with other metals like silver and copper to create different colours and finishes.
Bioplast: Bioplast is a flexible and biocompatible material often used for oral piercings and other sensitive areas. It is hypoallergenic, lightweight, and can be sterilised for safe use.
Common fashion jewellery types
Necklaces: Necklaces are a staple in fashion jewellery and come in many styles, including chokers, pendants, long chains, and statement necklaces.
Earrings: Earrings are another popular type of fashion jewellery and come in many styles, including studs, hoops, dangle earrings, and statement earrings.
Bracelets: Bracelets are versatile accessories that can be worn alone or layered with other bracelets. They come in many styles, including bangles, cuffs, chain bracelets, and beaded bracelets.
Rings: Rings can add a touch of elegance to any outfit and come in many styles, including simple bands, statement rings, and cocktail rings. They can be made from a variety of materials, including metals, crystals, and gemstones.
Body chains: Body chains are a unique and bold type of fashion jewellery that can be worn over clothing or on bare skin. They come in many styles, including simple chains and elaborate designs with beads and crystals.
Anklets: Anklets are a fun and flirty type of fashion jewellery that can add a touch of whimsy to any outfit. The most common types are simple chains, beaded anklets, and anklets with charms.
Common piercing jewellery types
Barbells: Popular type of piercing jewellery designed for tongue, nipple, and industrial piercings. They consist of a straight bar with a ball or disk on each end.
Captive bead rings: classic piercing jewellery suitable for a wide range of piercings, including earlobe, cartilage, and septum piercings. They consist of a circular ring with a bead or ball that clips into place.
Circular barbells: Also known as horseshoe barbells are a versatile type of piercing jewellery that can be used in many types of piercings, including lip, septum, and nipple piercings. They consist of a circular bar with balls or disks on each end.
Labret studs: Designed for lip, philtrum, and cheek piercings. They consist of a straight bar with a flat disk or ball on one end and a removable end on the other.
Nose rings: Jewellery designed for nostril piercings. They come in many styles, including nose studs, hoops, and captive bead rings.
Plugs and tunnels: Plugs and tunnels are a type of piercing jewellery designed for stretched earlobe piercings. They come in many styles, including plain, jewelled, and patterned designs.
Durability and comfort
Regarding durability and comfort, fashion jewellery and piercing jewellery can vary depending on the materials used and the quality of the product.
In terms of fashion jewellery, some materials, such as gold, silver, and platinum, can be durable and long-lasting, while others, like plastic or wood, may only hold up well over time. Additionally, some fashion jewellery may not be suitable for prolonged wear, as the weight or size of the jewellery can cause discomfort or irritation.
For piercing jewellery, choosing high-quality materials that are safe for your skin and won’t cause irritation or infection is important. Surgical grade stainless steel, titanium, and gold are often recommended for piercing jewellery, as they are hypoallergenic and long-lasting. However, even high-quality piercing jewellery can become uncomfortable over time, mainly if worn for an extended period or during physical activity.
To ensure both the durability and comfort of your jewellery, it’s essential to choose high-quality products made from safe materials and to follow proper care instructions.
For fashion jewellery, this may include storing the jewellery in a cool, dry place and avoiding exposure to water or harsh chemicals.
For piercing jewellery, this may include cleaning the jewellery regularly and avoiding changing the jewellery too frequently during the healing process. By taking proper care of your jewellery, you can ensure that it remains comfortable and durable for years to come.