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If you're exploring body piercing jewelry, understanding industry terms is essential—and it can even be fun! This glossary will guide you through the most popular terms, helping you choose the best jewelry and communicate effectively with piercers. Let's dive in!
Popular Types of Body Jewelry
★ Barbell:
A straight or curved rod with decorative or functional ends, ideal for tongue, eyebrow, and industrial piercings. Barbells come in various lengths and gauges to suit different piercings, making them versatile and practical—like the Swiss Army knife of body jewelry!
★ Captive Bead Ring (CBR):
A versatile circular ring held in place by a bead, perfect for ear, septum, and lip piercings. CBRs are popular because they’re easy to customize with beads in different materials and colors. Think of them as the “build-your-own” burger of jewelry!
★ Labret or Flat Back:
A flat-backed stud designed for lip and cartilage piercings, known for comfort and style. Labret studs also moonlight as jewelry for tragus and helix piercings—talk about multitasking! The flat back prevents irritation, making it a favorite for everyday wear.
★ Clicker:
Hinged rings that easily click into place, great for septum, daith, and helix piercings. Their seamless design adds a touch of elegance to any piercing. They’re as satisfying to use as clicking a pen—but way cooler!
★ Hoop:
Simple circular rings commonly used for earlobes, nostrils, and cartilage. Hoops are a classic choice that can be minimalist or bold, depending on the design. They’re basically the little black dress of body jewelry.
★ Plug and Tunnel:
Jewelry for stretched earlobes, available in solid (plugs) or hollow (tunnels) designs. Plugs and tunnels come in materials like wood, silicone, and acrylic, adding personality to your stretched ears.
★ Navel Ring (also called Belly Ring):
Specially designed curved barbells for belly button piercings. These often feature decorative dangles or gemstones to add flair. They’re like jewelry’s answer to crop tops—perfect for showing off!
★ Surface Bar:
A flat barbell for surface piercings like collarbones and hips. Surface bars are designed to minimize irritation and rejection in flat areas of the body. Functional and fabulous!
★ Industrial Barbell:
Long barbells connecting two piercings, typically in the upper ear. These often have decorative centers to make a bold statement—the ultimate showstopper!
★ Circular Barbell (Horse Shoe Ring):
A curved barbell shaped like a horseshoe, commonly used for septum, ear, and lip piercings. With removable ends, they’re as versatile as they are stylish, giving you endless customization options.
★ Nipple Shields:
Decorative jewelry that encircles the nipple, often with intricate designs or gemstones for added flair. Shields are perfect for making a bold statement while offering some protection to the piercing.
★ Nipple Barbells:
Straight barbells specifically designed for nipple piercings, available in various lengths and adorned with decorative ends such as gemstones, charms, or spikes.
★ Nipple Rings:
Captive bead rings or circular barbells that add a classic yet eye-catching look to nipple piercings. Perfect for those who prefer a more traditional style.
Key Body Jewelry Measurements
★ Gauge (G or GA):
Refers to the thickness of the jewelry, with common sizes like 16G or 14G. A smaller number indicates a thicker gauge—jewelry math made simple.
★ Length:
The distance between the ends of barbells and studs. Choosing the right length ensures comfort and prevents irritation. It’s all about that perfect fit!
★ Diameter:
The size of circular jewelry such as hoops and rings. Proper diameter is crucial for a snug yet comfortable fit. Think of it as tailoring for your piercings.
Materials in Body Jewelry
★ Surgical Steel:
Affordable and durable, suitable for most piercings. Its high corrosion resistance makes it a favorite. It’s the dependable workhorse of piercing materials.
★ Titanium:
Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and perfect for sensitive skin. Titanium is also available in vibrant anodized colors—safe and stylish.
★ PVD Plating:
Adds vibrant colors and enhances durability. PVD-coated jewelry is great for creating unique looks that last.
★ Gold (14K or 18K):
Luxurious and safe for healing piercings when nickel-free. Ensure it’s solid gold, as plating may wear off over time. Go for gold—literally!
★ Niobium:
A hypoallergenic metal with customizable colors through anodizing. It’s a softer alternative to titanium but equally safe.
★ Silicone:
Flexible material, popular for stretched ears. Silicone is lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear. It’s like yoga pants for your piercings.
★ Acrylic:
Lightweight and budget-friendly, best for temporary wear. Acrylic jewelry is available in a variety of colors and designs, perfect for experimenting.
Jewelry Styles and Features
★ Threadless Jewelry:
Uses tension instead of threading, providing a sleek look and easier insertion. It’s ideal for sensitive piercings—style meets simplicity.
★ Double Flare Plug:
Secure jewelry for stretched ears with flared ends that stay in place without O-rings. They’re the go-to for seasoned stretchers.
★ Single Flare Plug:
Features one flared end and an O-ring for easy wear and removal, ideal for new stretches. Think of it as training wheels for stretched ears.
★ Captive Ball:
The decorative bead used in captive bead rings. These can be plain, jeweled, or creatively shaped—a tiny detail that packs a punch.
★ Internal Threading:
Jewelry with threading inside the post, creating a smooth exterior. This design minimizes irritation during insertion and removal, making it a favorite for fresh or sensitive piercings.
★ External Threading:
Jewelry with threading on the outside of the post, where the ends screw on. While more common in basic jewelry, it’s less gentle on the piercing.
★ Anodizing:
A process that adds durable, vibrant colors to titanium and niobium jewelry. Anodized jewelry is perfect for creating a personalized look that stands out.
Piercing Techniques and Considerations
★ Stretching:
Gradually enlarging piercings to fit larger jewelry, using tools like tapers or crescents. Patience is key to avoid damage—slow and steady wins the race.
★ Surface Piercing:
Piercings that lie flat on the skin, requiring specialized jewelry like surface bars to prevent irritation and rejection. A unique look with the right care.
★ Dermal Anchor:
A single-point piercing with an embedded base and decorative top. Dermal anchors are popular for their versatility and sleek appearance. They’re like the hidden gems of piercings.
Healing and Aftercare
★ Aftercare:
Proper cleaning routines to support piercing healing and prevent infections. Saline soaks are often recommended—gentle and effective.
★ Migration:
When a piercing shifts closer to the skin’s surface. Choosing the right jewelry and placement reduces this risk. Think of it as giving your piercing a solid home.
★ Rejection:
The body pushes out jewelry, often due to improper material or placement. Opt for high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry to minimize rejection.
★ Keloids:
Raised scar tissue that can develop around a piercing. While not dangerous, they can be aesthetically unappealing. Proper aftercare and avoiding irritation can reduce the risk of keloids. If one forms, consult a professional for treatment options.
★ Hypoallergenic:
Materials that reduce the risk of allergic reactions, such as titanium, niobium, and implant-grade surgical steel. Your skin will thank you!
Why Understanding These Terms Matters
Knowing these terms helps you make informed decisions when purchasing jewelry and ensures a safe and stylish piercing experience. Whether you’re shopping for your next piece or planning a new piercing, this guide will empower you with the knowledge to choose the best options.
