What Is Permanent Jewelry? (And Why It Could Be For You!)
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Yet another trend has emerged in recent years, but this time with jewelry. A new type of accessory, permanent jewelry is a fashion trend popping up in large and small cities all over the world. The process is quick and painless: have a chain welded around your wrist or ankle—that’s it.
The fashion trend is understated, but makes a great conversation starter and provides an opportunity to connect with loved ones. Say goodbye to those BFF bracelets from the pagoda at the mall, this trend is certainly here to stay.
How Does Permanent Jewelry Work?
Permanent jewelry is a pretty cool concept, and it’s easier to have applied than you might think. In most cases, you’ll attend a jewelry popup or jewelry store that’s offering the service. Once you arrive, you’ll select which chain you want and if there are any charms or add-ons that you want to include.
The next step is a quick fitting, which mainly consists of trying on the jewelry—bracelets, necklaces, and anklets—and discussing with the staff how loose fitting you typically wear your accessories, as well as getting an idea of how the piece will look on you. This results in a custom look and fit that is unique to you.
Then comes the fun. The jewelry tech will add a connector to the ends of the chain, usually a gold hoop or a charm that links the two ends of the chain together, before solder/welding the connector and chain together, creating a clasp-less piece of jewelry that is…well, permanent. (Of course, the chain can be cut or broken if you need to take the piece off.)
You’ll be wearing your new piece all the time, so keeping it clean is important. If you’re buying 14K gold, you won’t have to clean the chain often. However, you’ll want to make sure you’re not coating it in lotion or body oils or letting food get stuck, especially if the style you choose has ridges and grooves. You can clean your jewelry easily with a Polishing Kit or a Delicate Jewelry Solution and a soft cloth or toothbrush.
How Much Does Permanent Jewelry Cost?
The cost of a clasp-less item depends on the retailer and style, but will generally cost between $80 and $200. The type of chain you select, as well as any add-ons like charms, will impact the total cost. Though this may seem like a high price tag, you’re also paying for a service. And, if you think about cost-per-wear, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth of wear from a permanent piece.
What are the Benefits of Permanent Jewelry?
This new-ish trend is popular for numerous reasons, including the sentimental bonds a piece of jewelry can represent and plain old practicality. Many popups where this type of chain welding is offered are part of celebrations like Galentine’s Day, bridal showers, engagement parties, graduation parties, birthday parties, and in-store shopping events.
Getting a chain on a significant day is similar to a tattoo, serving as a physical reminder of the moment or date it was created. People can also pick out their new chains with a loved one, making them a new favorite for mother/daughter relationship symbols or best friend bracelets.
Permanent jewelry is also incredibly practical. Think of how many bracelets you've lost over the years or how many anklets you’ve broken. Having a chain specifically measured to your body and welded in place guarantees the item will stay with you, even as you go about your day-to-day life. Most chains are high-quality 14-karat gold, so they won’t tarnish or rust over time. And because there isn’t a clasp, the chain doesn’t have a weak point that may catch on furniture or clothing or break with the slightest pressure. Though it may be an investment, the price is well worth the long-lasting results.
Where Can You Find Permanent Jewelry?
Permanent jewelry is becoming popular across the globe, but you need to buy it in person since it requires a custom process to fit and weld the chain around your wrist, ankle, or neck. So, you’ll need to search locally or plan to visit a jewelry store next time you travel to a city.
Some of the most popular permanent jewelry sellers are Catbird in New York City and Astrid and Miyu in the UK. There are smaller brands offering the jewelry as well, like Anna Janelle Jewelry in Santa Barbara, California; Hermosa Jewelry in Charleston, South Carolina, and Stay Golden in Columbus, Ohio.
Catbird is known for its dainty and beautiful jewelry, especially styles in yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Some of its bestselling permanent chains are “Tiny Hearts Chain,” “Hundred Summers,” “Lover’s Chain,” and “Swimming Pool.” Many of Catbird’s chains are also sold in various bracelet lengths, which are a wonderful dainty bracelet option if you aren’t able to go and “get zapped” in the NYC shop.
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How Do You Take Off Permanent Jewelry?
Though this jewelry type is permanent for all intents and purposes, that doesn’t mean it will never come off. If you have a situation where you need to take off your clasp-less bracelet, anklet, or necklace, you can snip through the connector where the weld was made, with items like nail clippers or small scissors. Some situations where you may need to remove your jewelry may include medical procedures like an MRI or surgery, certain athletic events impacted by jewelry rules (like in high school sports games), and any situation where you need to remove the band for comfort, such as bodily changes during pregnancy.
If you plan to have your chain re-welded back on, try to make only one small clip when you take your item off. The cleaner the cut, the easier the reattachment. Many brands and sellers offer re-welding for a small fee, whether it was removed by accident or on purpose.
Is Permanent Jewelry Worth it?
The answer to this question depends on how often you wear jewelry and how often you wish you wore jewelry. If you like to wear accessories every day and want a staple, signature item, then having a chain welded on is suited for you. If you aren’t sure if it would be bothersome, it might not be worth the price at this time. If you’re on the fence, use an item you already have and see if you can wear it 24/7 for a week (as long as that’s comfortable and wouldn’t ruin the item).
And, if you’re looking for a way to connect with a friend or partner or create memorable experiences at an event, booking a jeweler that can facilitate permanent jewelry may make your day even more special.
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