Permanent Jewelry FAQ

Have questions about permanent jewelry? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about how it works, what you can expect, and how to care for your jewelry.

What is permanent jewelry?

Permanent jewelry is a bracelet, anklet, or necklace that’s custom-fitted to you and finished with a tiny welded jump ring instead of a traditional clasp.

Rather than opening and closing a clasp every time you put on your jewelry, the chain is fitted to your wrist, ankle, or neck and the ends are connected with a small jump ring. I then use a micro welder to close the ring with a quick, precise weld.

Once it’s welded, there’s no clasp to open or close, so the jewelry stays on until you decide to remove it or the chain breaks.

Despite the name, “permanent” doesn’t mean you can never take it off. It simply means the jewelry is designed to be worn continuously rather than being easily taken on and off.

Permanent jewelry is made for everyday wear, so you can keep your favorite piece on through your normal routine instead of remembering to put it on each day.

Why get permanent jewelry?

The biggest appeal is convenience. There’s no tiny clasp to struggle with, and you don’t have to remember to take your jewelry off and put it back on.

But permanent jewelry can also be personal. You might get a piece to celebrate a friendship, relationship, birthday, milestone, trip, or another special moment. Or you might simply find a chain you love and want to wear every day.

Permanent jewelry can also be a fun way to coordinate with someone else. Friends, couples, family members, and wedding parties can choose matching or complementary chains.

I also offer natural gemstone chains, so you can choose something with a little more color, texture, and personality than a traditional metal chain.

Is permanent jewelry actually permanent?

“Permanent” doesn’t mean it can never come off.

The chain is designed to stay on during everyday activities, but it can still break if it gets caught, snagged, or pulled with enough force. This is actually an important safety feature: if your jewelry gets caught on something, the chain or jump ring can give way rather than remaining attached to you.

If you intentionally need to remove your jewelry, you can cut the welded jump ring with scissors or nail clippers. You do not need to cut the chain itself.

If the chain is still in good condition after removal, bring it back to me and I can re-weld it for you.

Does getting permanent jewelry hurt?

No! The welding process itself is quick and should not hurt.

I use a micro welder to create a tiny weld on the jump ring. The weld is made on the ring itself rather than directly against your skin.

You’ll see a quick flash when the weld is made, and then your jewelry is finished. The actual welding only takes a moment.

Can I shower, swim, and sleep in permanent jewelry?

Yes! Permanent jewelry is designed to be worn through everyday activities, including showering, sleeping, swimming, and working out.

You don't need to take it off every time you shower or go about your normal routine.

That said, permanent jewelry isn't indestructible. Avoid excessive pulling, snagging, or putting unnecessary stress on the chain. It’s also best to limit exposure to harsh chemicals, which can cause your jewelry to tarnish or wear more quickly.

With proper care, your permanent jewelry can be enjoyed as an everyday piece for a long time.

What metals and chains do you offer?

I currently offer sterling silver, 14k gold-filled, and natural gemstone chains.

There are several chain styles and price points to choose from, ranging from simple metal chains to more unique gemstone options.

Sterling silver is a classic choice with a bright, polished look, while 14k gold-filled offers the look of gold with a durable layer of 14k gold bonded to a base metal. My gemstone chains incorporate natural gemstones for a more colorful and distinctive option.

I'll help you choose a chain based on the look you're going for, your budget, and where you're wearing it. Once you've chosen your chain, I'll custom-fit it comfortably before welding.

What if my permanent jewelry breaks?

It happens! Permanent jewelry is designed for everyday wear, but chains can still break if they get caught, snagged, or pulled.

If your chain breaks at the welded jump ring and you still have the original chain, I offer free re-welds.

If the chain itself is damaged or you've lost part of the chain, bring it to me so I can take a look. Depending on the damage, I can let you know whether it can be repaired or whether you'll need a replacement chain.

If your jewelry breaks, don't throw away the pieces. Keep the chain and bring it with you whenever possible.

How long does permanent jewelry last?

How long your permanent jewelry lasts depends on the chain you choose and how you wear it.

Some pieces may last for years with regular wear, while others may eventually break from snagging, pulling, or normal wear. The goal isn't for the jewelry to be indestructible, but for it to be durable enough to comfortably wear as part of your everyday life.

Taking care of your jewelry and avoiding unnecessary stress on the chain can help extend its lifespan.

How does a permanent jewelry appointment work?

The process is quick and simple.

1. Choose your chain
I'll show you the available chains and help you choose one based on your style and budget.

2. Get fitted
I'll wrap the chain around your wrist, ankle, or neck and adjust the length until it fits comfortably.

3. Get welded
Once you're happy with the fit, I'll connect the ends with a small jump ring and use the ZAPP welder to close it.

4. You're done!
The entire welding process only takes a moment, and then you can go about your day wearing your new piece.

Can I get a bracelet, anklet, or necklace?

Yes! I currently offer permanent bracelets, anklets, and necklaces.

You can choose from sterling silver, 14k gold-filled, and natural gemstone chains, depending on what's currently available.

Do I need an appointment?

Not always!

I currently offer permanent jewelry by appointment and walk-in on select days at Local Love CHS on James Island, as well as at select markets and events throughout the Charleston and Summerville areas.

Availability can vary depending on where I'm offering permanent jewelry, so check my current schedule and booking information before coming by. Feel free to contact me with any questions!

Do you offer permanent jewelry parties?

Yes! I offer private permanent jewelry appointments and parties throughout the Charleston and Summerville area.

Private parties are a fun option for birthdays, girls' nights, bridal events, bachelorette parties, and other gatherings. I can travel to your location, depending on the event and location.

Contact me to book a private appointment or party.

Where can I get permanent jewelry?

I currently offer permanent jewelry at Local Love CHS on select days, as well as at select markets and events throughout the Charleston and Summerville area.

Because I don't offer permanent jewelry at every market where I sell my handmade jewelry, be sure to check my current schedule before attending an event specifically for permanent jewelry.

For current availability, locations, booking information, and pricing, visit the Permanent Jewelry page or check the link in my Instagram bio.

How should I care for my permanent jewelry?

Permanent jewelry can be worn through your normal routine, but a little care will help keep your chain looking its best.

 ~ Wash with warm water and mild soap when needed.

 ~ Use a soft brush to gently clean around the chain.

 ~ Avoid excessive pulling or snagging.

 ~ Limit exposure to harsh chemicals.

 ~ Be mindful of lotions, perfumes, and other products that can build up on the jewelry.

 ~ If your chain breaks, keep the pieces and contact me about a re-weld or repair.

If your jewelry needs to be removed, cut the welded jump ring, not the chain. If the chain is still intact, bring it back and I'll be happy to re-weld it for you.