Inside the trend: Why permanent jewellery is having a moment

Choosing jewellery often involves deciding between special occasion pieces and everyday wear. But what if your accessories could seamlessly blend both worlds? From matching bracelets with your BFF to expressing love with your significant other, permanent jewellery is the latest trend taking over TikTok and Instagram, and is quickly rewriting the rules of accessorising completely.

If you're thinking about getting permanent jewellery, here's everything you need to know before you go.

What is permanent jewellery?

Katie from Orbit Bloom Permanent Jewellery explained the distinction to Yahoo Lifestyle, saying, "traditional pieces of jewellery are removable, with clasps that allow the wearer to take them off as they please."

However, "permanent jewellery is welded onto the wrist without a clasp or joining mechanism, meaning it stays on the wearer forever (or as long as they’d like it to)."

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How is permanent jewellery done?

At Orbit Bloom, the process begins with a one-on-one consultation. You’ll be presented with a selection of high-quality chains and, if you'd like, charms that you can hold against your skin to be certain it’s a look you’d feel comfortable and proud to wear indefinitely.

"Honestly, choosing is the hardest part!" Katie says.

Next, the team will fit the chain to your wrist at just the right length. Nice and snug so it becomes one with your daily movements, but not so tight that you’ll feel it when you bend and flex the wrist.

Once measured, the jewellery undergoes a welding process directly onto your arm. This involves applying high heat to meld the pieces together and securely close the loop.

"It’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it fast," Katie explains, "but requires ultimate precision and a gentle touch from an experienced jeweller."

A quick polish and the chain stays on permanently, as a symbol of the connection, promise or memory made in the moment it’s attached.

What is the cost?

Investing in permanence comes with a variable price tag. Much like any piece of jewellery, the cost will depend on a few factors including chain styles and materials.

Katie says customers can anticipate paying anywhere from $100-$400+ for a bracelet of high enough quality to stand the test of time.

"Anything designed to last forever should be well considered, made with care, and with durability that stands up to everyday life," Kate continues. "Metals that meet these standards will come at a more premium cost, so be wary of cheaper jewellers that may be using lower-quality alloys."

If you’re ever unsure, Katie suggests some good questions to ask include: “What metals are these chains and charms made from?” and “Where are your pieces made?”

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Is it painful?

According to Katie this is a common question!

"I’m thrilled to say there’s absolutely no pain involved at all," she assures, "of course, welding does require a high level of heat and precision equipment can be sharp, which is why it’s important to choose an experienced jeweller that has the necessary equipment to protect you."

What types of jewellery can be made permanent?

According to Katie, permanent jewellery most commonly takes form as a bracelet, however they're also able to create bespoke anklets, necklaces, rings, belly chains, and more.

Can you take permanent jewellery off?

Don't worry, it's not a life sentence. It’s permanent, but not "till-death-do-us-part" permanent.

Despite its name, permanent jewellery isn't as binding as a tattoo. Should the need arise, removal is achievable by carefully cutting with scissors. Moreover, most permanent jewellers offer re-welding options for those seeking a temporary break.

How long does it last?

As long as you want it to, basically; permanent jewellery is designed to withstand the test of time. It's not magnetic and is durable enough to be resistant to the elements, so you don't need to worry about damage or having to remove it in specific situations like X-rays or medical imaging.

"Generally speaking, for jewellery to last a lifetime, it’s important to look for jewellers that offer high-quality chains made from durable metals," Katie warns. "Pure gold, while up there in luxury, is actually one of the most malleable metals, meaning that it’s more likely to be dented, scratched, or deformed by everyday wear."

"That’s why we stock 14k gold-filled chains and charms (which have a much higher gold composition than gold-plated, with a stronger core of sterling silver), as well as 925 sterling silver – all made in Los Angeles," she continues.

High-quality, durable materials mean your pieces stay permanent for life, and won’t tarnish, irritate, or discolour.

Should you try it?

For those who love a one-and-done style, permanent jewellery is a no-brainer. No more morning accessory decisions, just get up and go.

However, it may not be the ideal choice for those who like to change-up their look every day or are less inclined towards sentimentality.

Katie sums it up, saying permanent jewellery is often symbolic of a special moment, change, commitment, celebration or memory.

"Permanent jewellery offers us all a way to wear our most treasured memories and to me, that’s really special," Katie said.

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