How to tell if a piercing studio uses high-quality jewellery
When choosing a piercing studio, the quality of the jewellery used matters just as much as the piercing technique itself. High-quality jewellery supports proper healing, reduces irritation, and lowers the risk of complications such as allergic reactions, prolonged swelling, or scarring.
At Eir Piercing, jewellery quality is non-negotiable. The materials, design, and finish of the jewellery used during an initial piercing play a major role in how your body responds, both in the short and long term.
This guide explains how to tell whether a piercing studio truly uses high-quality jewellery, and why that distinction matters for your health and comfort.
Quick answer:
A piercing studio that uses high-quality jewellery will be transparent about materials, use implant-grade or biocompatible metals, offer smooth and well-finished designs, and prioritise jewellery specifically suited for healing, not just aesthetics.
Why jewellery quality matters more than people realise
A fresh piercing is a healing wound. Anything placed inside it interacts directly with your body for weeks or months. Jewellery made from unsuitable materials or poor finishes can irritate tissue, slow healing, and increase the risk of complications.
In contrast, jewellery designed for professional piercing supports the body’s natural healing process by minimising friction, pressure, and chemical reactions.
Materials: what high-quality piercing jewellery is actually made from
Professional piercing jewellery is made from biocompatible materials, meaning they are safe for prolonged contact with the body and unlikely to trigger reactions.
Implant-grade titanium is one of the most commonly used materials in high-quality piercing jewellery. It is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for nearly all skin types, including those with sensitivities.
Solid gold, typically 14k or higher, is another excellent option when it is truly solid and not plated or mixed with reactive alloys. Properly alloyed gold does not degrade over time and offers both durability and comfort.
Niobium and platinum are also respected materials in professional piercing. Both are non-reactive and suitable for long-term wear, particularly for people with metal sensitivities.
Certain types of glass, such as borosilicate or fused quartz, may be used in specific cases. When properly manufactured and polished, glass is non-porous and inert, making it safe for both initial and healed piercings when used appropriately.
What you won’t see in a high-quality studio is jewellery made from cheap alloys, plated metals, or mystery materials. These are more likely to tarnish, flake, or expose reactive base metals during healing.
Design details that affect healing
High-quality jewellery isn’t only about what it’s made from, it’s also about how it’s made.
Internally threaded or threadless jewellery is a key indicator of professional standards. These designs prevent rough threading from passing through fresh tissue, reducing trauma during insertion and removal.
A smooth, mirror-polished finish is equally important. Jewellery should have no sharp edges, burrs, or rough seams. Even small imperfections can cause friction and irritation inside a healing piercing.
Design choices such as appropriate backing size, correct length, and anatomical fit also matter. Jewellery that is too short, too long, or poorly shaped can cause pressure, swelling, or migration during healing.
Transparency is a sign of quality
A piercing studio that uses high-quality jewellery will be open about it. They should be able to explain what materials they use, why those materials are chosen, and how the jewellery is sterilised.
Reputable studios work with established manufacturers and can clearly tell you where their jewellery comes from. While you don’t need to memorise certifications, you should feel comfortable asking questions — and receiving clear, confident answers.
If a studio avoids questions about materials, dismisses concerns, or can’t explain why a particular piece is suitable for healing, that’s a red flag.
Why studios don’t pierce with outside jewellery
Many professional studios, including Eir Piercing, only pierce with jewellery purchased in-house. This ensures correct sizing, verified materials, and proper sterilisation, all of which are essential for safe healing.
Outside jewellery may look similar, but without verified sourcing and preparation, it introduces unnecessary risk into a fresh piercing.
High-quality jewellery supports better healing
Choosing the right jewellery isn’t just about aesthetics. Quality materials and thoughtful design help:
reduce irritation and inflammation
support faster, smoother healing
minimise the risk of allergic reactions
improve long-term comfort and wearability
This is especially important for cartilage, surface piercings, genital piercings, and placements that heal more slowly.
Final thoughts
A piercing studio’s jewellery standards tell you a lot about their overall approach to safety and care. High-quality jewellery reflects attention to detail, respect for the body, and long-term thinking, not shortcuts.
Eir Piercing is now open, and we carefully select jewellery that meets professional standards for material, design, and healing performance. If you ever have questions about jewellery options, materials, or suitability, we’re always happy to explain and guide you.
FAQ: High-quality piercing jewellery
What is the safest jewellery material for a new piercing?
Implant-grade titanium and solid gold (14k or higher) are among the safest materials for initial piercings.
Is plated gold safe for piercings?
No. Plated jewellery can wear down over time and expose reactive base metals, increasing irritation risk.
Why does jewellery finish matter?
Rough or poorly finished jewellery can irritate tissue and slow healing. A smooth, polished surface reduces friction and trauma.
Can I bring my own jewellery to be pierced with?
Most professional studios do not allow this, as material quality, sizing, and sterilisation cannot be guaranteed.
How do I know if a studio uses high-quality jewellery?
They should be transparent about materials, use implant-grade or biocompatible options, and confidently answer questions about sourcing and design.
This information is based on professional piercing experience and is not intended as medical advice. If you have specific health concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.