Our body jewellery is made in a handful of materials. They differ in what they’re made of, how they look, how they wear and what they cost. Each product page lists exactly what that piece is made from.
| Material | What it is | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136) | A titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) made to the standard used for surgical implants. | About half the weight of steel. Can be anodised or PVD-coated in colours. Usually costs more than steel. |
| 316L surgical steel | A low-carbon stainless steel, the most common body jewellery metal. | Durable and affordable. It contains nickel (around 10–14%). |
| 925 sterling silver | 92.5% silver mixed with other metals, usually copper. | Softer than steel or titanium, and darkens (tarnishes) over time. Mostly used in our earrings and charms. |
| Plated, IP and PVD finishes | A thin coloured layer (gold, rose gold, black) over steel, titanium or brass. | Gives colour at a lower price. The layer can wear with time. |
| Acrylic | A hard, lightweight plastic. | Bright colours and low prices. |
| Bioplast | A flexible medical-grade plastic. | Bends rather than snapping. Often used for retainers. |
| Silicone | A soft, flexible rubber-like material. | Common for tunnels and skins in larger sizes. |
Titanium or surgical steel?
Both are hard-wearing metals. Implant-grade titanium is lighter and is made to a medical implant standard, and it comes in anodised colours. 316L surgical steel costs less and contains nickel. Many people who know they react to nickel choose titanium, but if you have a metal allergy, check with your doctor before buying.
Coloured finishes
Gold, rose gold and black pieces are usually a coating over another metal; the product page names both, for example “Rose Gold IP over 316L Surgical Steel”. Solid gold is marked as solid gold with its carat.
Shop by material
Related: size guide and gauge chart and cleaning your jewellery.
We sell jewellery; we’re not piercers. This guide is about the jewellery itself. Which size, style or material suits your piercing, especially a new one, is a question for a professional piercer. If you have an allergy or sensitive skin, talk to your doctor about which metals are right for you.