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I remember back in 2021 when I first added permanent bracelets as a service. At the time, the concept was still pretty new, most people hadn’t even heard of it! The only store I knew offering it for years was Catbird Jewelry in Brooklyn, NY.
Funny enough, I didn’t set out to offer permanent jewelry. I bought a welder to help with jewelry production, and the company I purchased it from casually suggested, “You should try adding this as a service.” I figured, why not? Fast-forward four years later, and I’ve lost count of how many wrists I’ve zapped.
These days, you can’t go to a market or pop-up without seeing at least one or two vendors offering the service. It’s definitely a cool experience, but before you jump in and get one (or two…or three), here are my top 5 tips you should know.
If the permanent jewelry artist can’t clearly explain the difference between gold-filled and gold-plated… run! They are not the same and will not wear the same. Gold-filled is a U.S. legal standard that contains at least 5% pure gold bonded to a base metal. That means it’s way more durable and tarnish-resistant than gold-plated, which only has a whisper-thin layer of gold.
Every bracelet should have a natural breaking point for safety reasons. This is one reason I don’t use stainless steel chains—it can be too difficult to break off if needed. A properly made permanent bracelet should give way with a good tug.
From my experience as a jeweler, 14kt solid gold is always my #1 recommendation. It’s classic, durable, and low-maintenance. Since gold can be pricey, 14kt gold-filled is a fantastic substitute that gives you longevity without the solid gold price tag.
Just because it’s welded on doesn’t mean it’s invincible. Think of it like any other bracelet clasped or not, it can still break if snagged or pulled too hard. Treat it with care, but don’t be shocked if life happens.
Tarnish can happen over time depending on the metal and your lifestyle. Some metals are more prone to it than others. For the best long-term wear, opt for 14kt solid gold, 14kt gold-filled, or Argentium silver. These options are less likely to tarnish and will keep your bracelet looking fresh longer.
Permanent jewelry is such a fun way to mark a moment, celebrate a bond, or simply treat yourself. When done right, it’s a beautiful investment you’ll enjoy for years. I've actually had my set of bracelets for almost 5 years.
