Good, bad or indifferent, TikTok is continuously starting and maintaining trends, and the notion of permanent jewelry has trickled its way out of that platform, making headway in the mainstream.
You might hear the term related to “fusing,” “zapping” or “getting zapped,” but what exactly is permanent jewelry? We’ll fill you in not only about the trending accessory itself, but also where you can get it done, and what other types of pieces are popular this season.
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What is permanent jewelry?
Permanent jewelry is exactly that—a piece of jewelry that cannot be removed (without help).
We are not talking piercings (like dermal piercings). And we’re not talking about wedding rings (those can be taken on and off).
Really, permanent jewelry is just taking your favorite piece to a jeweler (or buying it from them) and having them weld the two ends together. Goodbye, clasps! Then you get to wear that piece, like a bracelet or necklace, until it breaks off or you have it carefully removed by a jeweler (so it doesn’t get damaged in the process).
Either process is painless and takes minutes to achieve.
Related: 31 Gold Bracelets You’ll Want to Wear Every Day
Pros and cons of making jewelry permanent
Here are some things to consider before getting zapped.
Permanent jewelry pros
Taking a special piece and being able to wear it all the time is a constant reminder of the moment, or person, from which the piece is from. Also, having your jewelry on you all of the time keeps you from misplacing it, or risking the chance of catching the clasp on something and breaking it.
A high-quality piece that you wear each day will also eliminate allergy possibilities for some. You’ll never have to second guess if a new accessory will make your skin turn green or not (unless you choose to layer up).
Those are a couple of fantastic reasons to make your favorite necklace, anklet or bracelet a constant accessory, but here are things to think about before having it done.
Related: 31 Everyday Rings for Women, From Delicate To Bold Styles
Permanent jewelry cons
Most jewelry sites are saying that it is okay to have this done and still go through security at airports without any problems. Jewelry used for this purpose is always made of precious metals, and does not set off metal detectors. But once your piece is welded on, it is on until you have it removed or if it, unfortunately, breaks.
However, some procedures may require the removal of jewelry. Although you can’t predict the chance of any emergency procedures like surgeries, CT scans or MRIs, if you are someone with a medical condition that might have one of these tests done on occasion, then making your jewelry permanent might not be a good idea.
Think it through first, and if it is right for you then you can get shopping with stores like Catbird, a New York City-based store, specializing in affordable permanent bracelets. They believe bracelets are the best option for this jewelry trend, as necklaces and anklets are more likely to get caught or stretch (another consideration). Their gold bracelets start at just $98!
How to get permanent jewelry
Popular types of permanent jewelry are bracelets, anklets and necklaces.
Since this is a newer trend, it may be hard to find a local jeweler who sells and welds pieces—not all jewelers resize and repair jewelry and may not have the staff in-house to weld your jewelry.
However, there are some local jewelers throughout the nation who might be able to do this—so it’s worth calling around in your area. Otherwise, there are a couple of stores that you can visit in person to definitely get this accessory.
Related: 27 Best Everyday Gold Necklaces for Women From a Jewelry Insider
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Where to buy permanent jewelry
If you are ready to get started finding that special little trinket to wear 24/7, you can visit stores (or their pop-up shops) in person like:
- Catbird – Currently offering permanent jewelry welding at three locations in New York.
- Mod + Jo – Permanent jewelry services available Wednesday-Saturday in Dallas, Texas.
- Marie’s Jewelry – Offered by appointment only in Waterbury, Connecticut
Can’t make it to the shops in person? Even if you can’t get a permanent jewelry option online (after all, the shop needs to be able to weld the bracelet on your wrist), these stores have other gorgeous pieces of glam—the next best thing from afar!
Popular Catbird styles
Sweet Nothing Bracelet, $98 at Catbird
Catbird
Whisper those “sweet nothings” to the one you adore.
1976 Bracelet, $144 at Catbird
Catbird
Vintage name, modern design.
Diamond Fizz Bracelet, $198 at Catbird
Catbird
Just a little bit of sparkle is added to perfect this petite bracelet design.
Little Disco Bracelet, $148 at Catbird
Catbird
This is not for your average hippie.
Popular Mod + Jo styles
Raise the Bar, $56 at Mod + Jo
Mod + Jo
Make sure you snag this beauty before your friends do!
Charlie Paperclip Necklace, $136 at Mod + Jo
Mod + Jo
Oh, this dainty little chain is cuuuuute!
Popular Marie’s Jewelry styles
Circle Karma Bracelet, $177 at Marie’s Jewelry
Marie’s Jewelry
What goes around, comes around.
Mother of Pearl, $245 at Marie’s Jewelry
Marie’s Jewelry
This would be the perfect start to your permanent jewelry collection.
But, to wrap up, make sure you do your research before purchasing a piece of jewelry from a store that does permanent jewelry. The cost of the item usually does not include the cost of welding it. Find out how much the business charges and add it to the cost of the piece you are looking at buying. It would be unfortunate if you bought a bracelet and then couldn’t afford to get it fused.
Individual stores charge a wide range of fees for welding. Some are flat rates; others can go by the inch. With some pre-planning, you can get busy checking another (trendy) item off your wish list!
Next up, 15 Best Jewelry Boxes to Store Your Favorite Necklaces, Bracelets & More
