Body jewelry has become increasingly popular over the years, with people using it as a form of self-expression and adornment. However, not all body jewelry is created equally, and it's important to choose the right material for your body. This article will go over the two main materials NeoMetal jewelry is manufactured from–implant certified titanium and 18K gold–and their benefits.
Titanium Body Jewelry
Titanium is a lightweight and strong metal that is used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical. Not all titanium is the same level of quality, however. Implant certified titanium is a specific type used in medical implants, such as joint replacements, and dental implants. This type of titanium is what is recommended for body jewelry.
The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) suggests implant certified titanium (Ti6Al4V ELI) that is ASTM F-136 compliant, ASTM F1295, ISO 5832-3 compliant, or commercially pure titanium that is ASTM F-67 compliant. It is important to remember that while many companies can claim they use implant certified titanium, they should also have verifiable mill certificates to prove it is the correct grade.
NeoMetal’s titanium jewelry is manufactured from ASTM F-136 implant certified titanium, and you can find our mill certificates here.
Benefits of Implant Certified Titanium
- Biocompatibility: Biocompatibility refers to the ability of a material to interact with the human body without causing an adverse reaction. Implant certified titanium is biocompatible, which means it's safe for use in the human body and less likely to cause allergic reactions or other adverse effects. Titanium is an ideal choice for people with concerns about nickel sensitivity.
- Corrosion Resistance: Implant certified titanium is highly resistant to corrosion, which means it won't rust or corrode when exposed to body fluids, sweat, or other elements. This makes it an excellent choice for body jewelry as it will last longer and maintain its appearance over time.
- Lightweight: Titanium is incredibly lightweight, making it comfortable to wear as body jewelry.
- Durability: Implant certified titanium is durable and long-lasting, which makes it an excellent investment for body jewelry. It won't bend or break easily, and it can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Appearance: Titanium is one of a few metals that can be anodized to create jewelry of assorted colors, without affecting safety. Titanium doesn’t just offer versatility in color. You’ll find almost any style of body jewelry in titanium, in a wide selection of designs from simple to show stopping.
- Affordability: Titanium jewelry is cost-effective, especially when compared to gold. Price will depend on the style of jewelry you are buying.
Gold Body Jewelry
Gold is a naturally occurring element that is highly valued for its beauty and rarity. It is commonly used in jewelry-making because it is malleable, meaning it can be easily shaped into various forms.
Gold is classified in the Karat system, used to indicate its purity. It is commonly abbreviated as "K" or "kt" and is expressed as a percentage or a fraction of 24 parts.
Here's how it works:
- 24K gold is pure gold, meaning it is 100% gold with no other metals mixed in. It is the highest karat of gold you can get.
- 18K gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals, such as copper and silver.
- 14K gold is 58.3% gold and 41.7% other metals.
- 10K gold is 41.7% gold and 58.3% other metals.
Simply put, the higher the karat, the purer the gold. This does not mean, however, that high karat jewelry is the best choice. For example, 24K gold is incredibly soft and may not be suitable for jewelry that will be worn every day. Gold is mixed with other alloys to make it strong enough to be formed into jewelry and hold up to regular wear and use. On the other hand, 14K or 18K gold is more durable and is often used for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
For body jewelry, the APP suggests gold (yellow, rose, or white) that is 14k or higher, nickel- and cadmium-free, and alloyed for biocompatibility. Gold plated, gold-filled, or gold overlay/vermeil jewelry should be avoided, especially for fresh piercings. All involve coating base metal with a layer of gold. The gold surface (which is very thin measured, in millionths of an inch) can wear or chip off.
NeoMetal’s gold jewelry is made from solid 18 karat gold. Our white gold is palladium based and nickel free, and our rose gold is cadmium and nickel free. All our 18K gold jewelry styles are fortified with an ASTM F-138 stainless steel threadless pin, maintaining tension and a secure fit over time.
Benefits of 18K Gold
- Hypoallergenic: 18K gold is hypoallergenic and ideal for people with sensitive skin. It is less likely to cause allergic reactions than other metals like nickel or brass.
- Durability: Since 18K gold is a combination of gold and other metals, it is much more durable than pure gold. It can withstand daily wear and tear without losing its shape or shine and is intended for long-term wear.
- Appearance: 18K yellow gold is known for a richer and brighter color appearance and has a reputation for being luxurious and practical. 18k gold is also more resistant to tarnishing, while 14K has a higher silver content and may need more maintenance and polishing over time to sustain its appearance.
- Versatility: 18K gold is a versatile metal that can be easily molded into different shapes and sizes. It is an excellent choice for intricate designs and gemstone settings.
- Investment: 18K gold is a valuable commodity that retains its value over time.
When choosing body jewelry, it's important to select a high-quality material that is safe for your body and will last a long time. Both implant certified titanium and 18K gold are an excellent choice for new and healed piercings.
Do you want NeoMetal jewelry for your next piercing? Find a studio near you that stocks our products here. Looking to become a wholesale partner, apply here.