Because body piercing is a large part of youth culture today, there are shoals of jewellers who have branched out to provide unique body jewellery to discerning consumers everywhere. The designer body jewellery market is growing every day and includes literally anything you could imagine – and if you can’t find it ready made, odds are there’s a designer out there willing to craft the piece you’re after exactly as you imagined it.
Things to bear in mind when seeking designer body jewellery include: the materials, after all, you don’t want to risk infection just because something looks cool; the weight, because most piercings are fleshy, and ornate pieces of body jewellery are likely to be heavier than simpler items; the quality of the workmanship, ask to see some other custom jobs from the jeweller before committing; and finally, consider the budget, if you tell the designer the amount you’re able to spend from the beginning, you’ll both have a realistic idea of what is achievable.
When you’re designing your body jewellery, bear in mind where the piece will be worn – particularly if it is for someone else. Dangling items are more likely to snag on clothing or outerwear and could be damaged or cause injury to the piercing itself. Also, when designing body jewellery treat the selection of gemstones and materials as seriously as you would if you were designing traditional jewellery – a diamond is still a diamond, and you should be sure you get what you pay for.
Whether you’re designing a custom piece of body jewellery for yourself or a special someone, or purchasing a piece of jewellery by a well-known local designer, make sure to clarify the terms of sale. Understand whether the piece can be returned or exchanged from the outset and you’ll avoid disappointment in the long run.
© Jewellery Box.org.uk 2006.