Permanent Jewelry: A Permanent Solution or Just Another Trend?

A permanent solution? Or just another trend. Let's explore some of the important concerns associated with permanent jewelry. 

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Imagine that. A magic solution for never forgetting your jewelry, matching your every outfit, and lasting forever. If it sounds too good to be true, then we are with you. Similar to countless other circumstances, the convenient choice is usually not the best option. Let's go over a few things worth noting about "permanent" jewelry. 

 

Jewelry is not Invincible 

When it comes to wearing jewelry, certain rules are understood. Jewelry should be "last on, first off," not worn during certain activities, and cleaned regularly. This was practiced until permanent jewelry rose in popularity. 

So what can go wrong with permanent jewelry? 

Metals will likely tarnish, dull, and damage more quickly and frequently. Jewelry is not made to be showered with or in constant exposure to tarnish-causing substances every day. 

Physical damage is a primary concern since many jewelry wearers plan to keep their current hobbies and activities the same. Exercise, gardening, cleaning, cooking, and your workplace may cause your jewelry to get snagged or brake completely. 

Cleaning is a Challenge 

To protect and maintain jewelry, it's no secret that regular cleaning keeps your pieces tarnish free, shiny, and overall looking brand-new. It also helps to protect the jewelry from impurities found in the air and water. 

Jewelry permanently affixed to your body is a hindrance to caring for your pieces the right way.  Polishing cloths and tarnish-dissolving solutions are a challenge when your jewelry is affixed to your body.

 

Life Gets in the Way 

I guarantee if you have a permanent piece, there will be times when you think, "Shouldn't I take this off?" Whether you are cooking a meal, doing a physical activity, or just want to wear a different piece to better match your outfit, the thought will cross your mind.   

While these may not happen every day, there are some situations where permanent jewelry has to be removed. Surgery, MRI, and depending on the metal used, a security metal detector in a building might go off.  

Health Concerns 

Skin irritation and allergies are concerns worth noting with constant wear of your piece. Sterling silver, solid gold and gold-filled metals are some of the best materials for jewelry, but allergies and irritations are still a possibility. 

Design Limits 

You may not think it, but jewelry that doesn't come off has limits when it comes to design. Do you love pearls and gemstones? Sadly, permanent jewelry should not include pearls under any circumstances and only a limited type of gemstones. Pearls should always be kept dry, and certain gemstones are not supposed to get wet.  

Pro tip: For example, most gemstones ending in "ite" are not friendly to water, such as labradorite or fluorite. Additionally, there are specific gemstones that leach off harmful substances in water!  

 

Time to Go 

For many possible reasons, there will be a time for you and your welded piece to part ways.  The reality is you'll have to get your scissors or clippers and hopefully not hurt yourself in the removal process. For some, this process can be wasteful, as the piece will likely be thrown away. Certainly, cut permanent jewelry can't be gifted or donated like a removable piece.  

Permanent jewelry can be re-welded if cut in the right spot, but if you decide you don't want it anymore, here is what you can do. Donate or sell the cut jewelry to a jeweler. Many permanent pieces are made with sterling silver or solid gold, which is a shame to waste! 

 

Final Thoughts:

While permanent jewelry has concerns, that's completely a personal choice if you decide to get a permanent piece. What's important is that you know all of the facts. Here is a question to ask yourself if you're considering a permanent piece. Is it worth having my jewelry always affixed even when it should be removed for safety reasons and to properly care for my jewelry?