Guide
Silver (sterling) jewellery is not recommended for fresh piercings: it oxidises, tarnishes and some alloys may contain nickel. It can be worn briefly after healing, but it is not suitable as everyday initial jewellery.
ReadGauge (g) is a unit of thickness: the larger the number, the thinner the jewellery. 18g = 1.0 mm, 16g = 1.2 mm, 14g = 1.6 mm. The first jewellery is chosen slightly long to allow for swelling and shortened later.
ReadWith internally threaded and threadless jewellery, the bar is smooth and doesn't strain the tissue. Externally threaded jewellery is not recommended for fresh piercings, because the thread can rub the tissue as it passes through the hole.
ReadA labret is a bar with a flat back plate; a barbell is a bar with balls on both ends; rings (captive, segment, clicker) are preferred for healed piercings. The first jewellery is usually a straight bar, because a ring moves.
ReadNiobium (ASTM B392) is a nickel-free metal suitable for sensitive skin. It is slightly heavier than titanium and can be coloured by anodising. It is one of the accepted materials for fresh piercings.
ReadFor a fresh piercing, only nickel-free solid gold of 14k and above is suitable. Plating, vermeil and gold-filled jewellery wear off over time and the metal underneath comes into contact with the tissue; they are not recommended.
ReadImplant-grade steel (ASTM F138 / ISO 5832-1) is an accepted material for piercings, but it contains a small amount of nickel. Titanium is preferred for those with nickel sensitivity; a "surgical steel" label…
ReadImplant-grade titanium (ASTM F136 / ISO 5832-3) does not release nickel, is light and is compatible with the body. It is the most common choice among materials that meet the APP minimum standards for fresh piercings.
ReadStop pulling and stay calm. Don't force the jewellery out; if there is bleeding, press with a clean cloth, and for a tear or deep injury go to an emergency health facility.
ReadFor a fresh piercing, implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136), niobium and solid nickel-free gold are the safest options. If there are signs of allergy, immediately replace the jewellery with a low-risk material.
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