Permanent jewellery is a simple way to wear a favourite chain every day without worrying about a clasp. Each piece is measured to fit you and welded closed around your wrist, ankle or neck.
If you are considering permanent jewellery in Edmonton, here is what to expect at your SB Studio appointment, how to choose your chain and what you should know before having it welded.
What is permanent jewellery?
Permanent jewellery is a fine chain that is custom-fitted and joined with a small welded ring instead of a traditional clasp. Despite the name, the jewellery is not attached to your skin and can be removed whenever you choose.
The welding takes place only on the small ring connecting the ends of the chain. A protective barrier is placed between your skin and the jewellery during the process. It is quick and painless, although you may see a brief flash when the ring is welded.
Permanent jewellery is most commonly worn as a bracelet, but necklaces and anklets can also be custom-fitted. It can be kept simple with a single chain or personalized with charms, gemstones and connectors.
What happens during a permanent jewellery appointment?
Your appointment begins with choosing a chain. At SB Studio, our permanent jewellery is available in solid 14k gold and sterling silver, with different chain styles, weights and finishes to consider.
Once you have selected your chain, you can decide whether you would like to add a charm or connector. Initials, gemstones and small symbols can make the piece feel more personal, but a plain chain is always a good option.
We then measure the chain directly on you and adjust it until the fit feels right. After you approve the fit, the ends are joined with a small ring and carefully welded closed. The finished weld is checked before you leave.
Choosing your chain and getting the fit right usually takes longer than the weld itself.
Solid 14k gold or sterling silver?
Both metals can be worn every day, but they look and behave differently.
Solid 14k gold is a good choice if you want a low-maintenance piece that can stay on through most of your regular routine. Because it is solid gold rather than plated or filled, there is no outer gold layer that will eventually wear away.
Sterling silver has a cooler, brighter colour and offers a more affordable way to try permanent jewellery. Silver can naturally tarnish over time, especially when exposed to moisture, skincare products or certain body chemistry. It can be cleaned and polished when needed.
You can also mix metals if you already wear both gold and silver jewellery. There is no rule that every piece in your bracelet stack needs to match.
How should a permanent bracelet fit?
Fit is one of the most important parts of your appointment. A permanent bracelet should have enough room to move comfortably without hanging so low that it catches on clothing or other objects.
Some people prefer a closer fit that stays in place, while others like a little more movement. We will adjust the chain before welding so you can compare the fit and choose what feels comfortable.
For an anklet, think about where your shoes and socks normally sit. For a necklace, consider whether you plan to layer it with other chains and where you would like it to fall along your neckline.
Do not be afraid to ask for another adjustment before the piece is welded. A small change in length can make a noticeable difference in how it feels.
How to prepare for your appointment
There is not much you need to do beforehand, but a few small considerations can make your appointment easier:
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Arrive with clean, dry skin around the area being fitted.
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Avoid applying heavy lotion or body oil immediately before your appointment.
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Wear clothing that allows easy access if you are getting an anklet or necklace.
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Think about whether you prefer yellow gold, white metal or a mixed-metal look.
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Consider your daily routine, including work requirements, sports and activities where jewellery could catch.
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Check SB Studio’s age policy before booking an appointment for a child or teenager.
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Allow additional time if several people are getting jewellery together.
You do not need to know exactly what you want before arriving. Seeing the chains against your skin and comparing different combinations is part of the appointment.
Can you shower with permanent jewellery?
Solid 14k gold and sterling silver permanent jewellery can generally stay on while showering. Soap, lotion, sunscreen and other products may gradually leave residue on the chain, so occasional gentle cleaning can help keep it looking bright.
Rinse your jewellery with fresh water after swimming in a chlorinated pool or salt water and dry it gently. Harsh chemicals can affect the finish of the metal or damage certain gemstones, so take extra care if your piece includes a charm or stone.
Permanent jewellery is made for regular wear, but it is still fine jewellery. Avoid deliberately pulling or stretching the chain, and check it occasionally for bent links or an open connecting ring.
Is permanent jewellery really permanent?
“Permanent” means the chain does not have a clasp. It does not mean the piece is impossible to remove or guaranteed never to break.
Fine chains can break if they are pulled or caught with enough force. This helps prevent a delicate bracelet or anklet from causing an injury if it becomes snagged.
How long your piece lasts will depend on the chain, where it is worn and what it encounters during everyday life. Some people wear their permanent jewellery for years, while others eventually remove it or have it replaced.
Can permanent jewellery be removed?
Yes. If you need to remove your jewellery, cut the small connecting ring where the piece was originally welded rather than cutting through the chain itself. Keep the chain and any charms together.
Depending on the condition of the piece, it may be possible to weld it again or add a clasp so it can be worn as removable jewellery. Contact SB Studio before bringing in a removed or broken chain so we can look at the available options.
If a doctor, medical technician or workplace asks you to remove your jewellery, always follow their instructions. Permanent jewellery should never prevent you from receiving a medical procedure or complying with a safety requirement.
What happens if the chain breaks?
Permanent jewellery is made for everyday wear, but fine chains can occasionally catch or break. If yours does, keep the chain and any charms and bring them back to SB Studio. All repairs and rewelds on permanent jewellery purchased from us are free of charge. We will repair, refit and reweld your piece so you can get back to wearing it.
Can you get permanent jewellery with someone else?
Permanent bracelets are often chosen by partners, friends, siblings and family members who want coordinating pieces. Your chains can match exactly, or each person can choose a different style, metal or charm.
They are also a popular way to mark a birthday, wedding, anniversary, graduation or trip together without requiring both people to wear identical jewellery.
Book permanent jewellery in Edmonton
SB Studio is an independent, family-owned jewellery studio offering custom-fitted permanent jewellery in Edmonton. Choose from solid 14k gold and sterling silver chains, then add a charm, gemstone or connector if you would like to make the piece your own.
Book your permanent jewellery appointment to visit the studio, compare the chains in person and find a fit that works for you.