What you want to know about permanent jewelry

Lasting connection with style and security

Permanent jewelry, often referred to as "welded jewelry" or "forever bracelet," has evolved from a niche phenomenon to a significant trend in the modern jewelry industry. The concept of wearing a piece of jewelry permanently on the body without a clasp—primarily as a bracelet, anklet, or necklace—symbolizes a lasting connection, whether to a loved one or as an expression of personal style. Given its permanence, the most frequent and important questions from prospective buyers revolve around durability, security, and everyday practicality.

1. The procedure and safety

Permanent jewelry is characterized by the fact that it has no clasp. Instead, the two ends of a custom-made chain are joined directly to the wearer using a precise welding process.

What exactly is permanent jewelry?

Permanent jewelry is a custom-made chain (usually worn on the wrist or ankle) whose ends are not joined with a conventional clasp, but rather using a controlled spot welding process. The piece thus remains "permanently" on the body until it is intentionally removed. It often serves as a symbol of an eternal bond, such as friendship, love, or family.

How does welding work?

The application is carried out by a jeweler or trained personnel using a special, precise welding machine (often an impulse welder). The process proceeds as follows:

Selection and customization: The chain is selected and cut to the exact desired length (e.g., on the wrist).
Connection: The two ends of the chain are held together with a tiny jump ring.
Welding process: The welding machine emits a short, controlled pulse of electrical energy that melts the tiny jump ring at a single point, seamlessly joining the ends. This happens in milliseconds.

Is welding painful or dangerous?

No, the process is completely painless and safe. While the welding pulse does generate heat, it is extremely localized and concentrated solely on the metal. There is no contact with the skin. Furthermore, a small piece of protective material is always placed between the wearer's skin and the welding point to prevent any heat transfer to the skin.

How long does the appointment take and what age do you have to be?

Duration: The entire process typically takes only 10 to 20 minutes per person and piece of jewelry.
Age restrictions: Persons under 16 or 18 years of age generally require the consent and/or presence of a parent.

2. Practicality and everyday use

The durability of the jewelry naturally raises questions about its handling in various everyday situations.

Transport, medical examinations and removal

Airport security and travel: The jewelry causes no problems during airport security checks.
Medical necessity (MRI/surgery): During examinations such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), permanent jewelry must always be removed due to the strong magnetic fields. The same often applies to major surgeries.

Removal and reattachment

How is the jewelry removed? It can be removed very easily by cutting it at the weld point with hair clippers, small pliers, or sharp scissors.
Can it be welded back on? Yes, almost all providers offer a repair or re-welding service for a small fee.

Durability in everyday life

Everyday usability: You can shower, swim, play sports and sleep with it – the jewelry is designed for that.
Tearing and stretching: Delicate chains can break under strong tension. Most jewelers offer repair services for damaged chains.

3. Materials and Costs

The choice of material is crucial for durability, comfort, and price.

What materials are used?

14-karat gold (yellow, rose, and white gold): The most popular and highest-quality choice. Extremely durable and very skin-friendly.
Sterling silver (925 silver): Affordable, but can tarnish compared to gold and requires more care.
Gold-filled: A good alternative to solid gold (see table below).

Is the jewelry hypoallergenic?

High-quality materials such as 14-karat solid gold are generally hypoallergenic and therefore ideal for permanent wear on the skin.

Important material comparison: Gold-filled vs. gold-plated

feature	Gold-filled	Gold-plated
gold content	At least 5% of the total weight is 14k gold.	Just a very thin layer of gold.
durability	High quality. Can last for many years and withstands wear and tear.	Low. The layer can wear out quickly.
Recommendation for PJ	Suitable for permanent jewelry.	Not recommended for permanent jewelry.

Costs and types of jewelry

Cost: Prices vary greatly depending on the material (gold is the most expensive), length (necklaces > bracelets) and chain type.
Types: Bracelets are the most popular, followed by anklets and necklaces.

4. Symbolism and Trends

The rise of permanent jewelry is not just a fashion trend, but also an expression of a cultural need for meaning and permanence.

Why is permanent jewelry so popular?

Minimalism: The jewelry is subtle, elegant, and never needs to be taken off.
No loss: Since there is no clasp, the jewelry cannot be lost.
Symbolic value: It serves as an "eternal reminder" of a special bond, a vow, or an important milestone (e.g., as the "ultimate friendship bracelet").

Current trends and personalization

Charms and pendants: Personalization through small charms (such as birthstones, stars, initials or pearls) is very popular.
Mixed Metals: Combining different gold tones (yellow, rose and white gold) or even silver and gold in a stacked combination is a major trend.
Layering: Wearing two or more permanent bracelets of different chain thicknesses on the same wrist is very trendy.

At Annie's Boutique in Wettingen, you can get your permanent jewelry quickly and at a comparatively low price. -> Book an appointment online