Helix Piercing

Helix piercings have been around long, even before body piercing became trendy. The Helix refers to the upper portion of your ear, composed of cartilage. Earlier, this part of the ear was commonly called cartilage piercing. The helix area doesn’t have a lot of blood circulation, so it’s crucial to take excellent care of it to avoid infections. To keep it clean is essential. There are three main types of helix piercings: double, triple, and forward.

Double Helix Piercings

A double helix piercing is a trendy ear piercing where two individual holes are made along the curved outer edge of the ear, called the Helix. These two piercings are typically positioned above the other, resulting in a stacked or layered appearance. The placement of double helix piercing is often on upper part of the ear’s cartilage and their precise alignment can vary to suit individual preferences and ear anatomy.

There’s a wide variety of jewellery options available for double helix piercings, giving people the chance to showcase their distinct styles. You can adorn these piercings with studs, hoops, rings, or other jewellery options, with materials ranging from surgical stainless steel to 14k or 18k gold, depending on your preferences and potential sensitivities. A professional piercer should do double helix piercings using sterile equipment like all piercings. Healing times can vary, but following aftercare instructions diligently is crucial to minimize the risk of complications. It’s a good idea to seek guidance from a professional piercer before proceeding with a double helix piercing. They can assess your ear’s anatomy, discuss placement options, and help you choose the perfect jewellery to create a unique and fashionable look.

Triple Helix Piercings

Triple helix piercings are a unique and stylish form of ear piercing involving the creation of three separate holes along the curved outer rim of the ear, known as the Helix. These piercings are typically positioned on the upper part of the ear’s cartilage, and the three holes are often arranged in a vertical or diagonal pattern, creating a visually captivating stacked effect. Like other helix piercings, individuals can choose from a wide range of jewellery options, including studs, hoops, rings, or other decorative pieces, allowing for personalization to match one’s style and preferences. While the pain experienced during the piercing process varies from person to person, it is generally manageable. Healing times for triple helix piercings can vary, ranging from several months to a year or more, with proper aftercare being essential to prevent infections and promote healing.

For a triple helix piercing that is both successful and comfortable, it’s essential to engage the services of a professional piercer who uses sterile equipment. Each piercing is created individually, carefully focusing on placement and alignment to achieve the desired aesthetic. Following aftercare instructions diligently, which includes regular cleaning with saline solution and avoiding unnecessary contact with dirty hands, is essential for a smooth healing process. Consultation with a professional piercer is advisable before getting triple helix piercings, as they can assess your ear’s anatomy, discuss placement options, and assist in selecting the ideal jewellery to create a unique and eye-catching look. Triple helix piercings offer a distinctive way to adorn the upper ear, and they are an excellent choice for those seeking an eye-catching and personalized piercing arrangement.

Forward Helix Piercing

A forward Helix piercing is a trendy and stylish type of ear piercing situated on the front part of the ear’s cartilage, specifically on the upper curved rim,known as the Helix. The placement of forward helix piercings is usually in the upper section of the ear, near the area where the Helix takes a forward curve. These piercings can be positioned as single or multiple piercings along this angle, allowing for individualized placement based on personal preferences and ear anatomy.

When it comes to jewellery choices, forward helix piercings offer versatility. You can select from various jewellery styles, including studs, rings, or hoops, and choose materials that match your unique style and comfort. Like any piercing, it’s crucial to have forward helix piercings done by a professional piercer who uses sterile equipment. Proper aftercare, such as regular cleaning with saline solution, prevents infections and supports healing. The level of discomfort experienced during the piercing procedure can differ among individuals, but it is typically within manageable limits.

Healing times may range from a few months to a year, and following aftercare instructions diligently is vital to ensuring proper healing and reducing the risk of complications. Overall, forward helix piercings offer opportunities for personalization and creativity, allowing you to express your style through your piercings while enhancing the front part of your ear’s appearance. Consulting with a professional piercer before getting a forward helix piercing is advisable to discuss placement options and select the right jewellery to achieve the desired aesthetic.

Is Helix piercing painful?

Getting a helix piercing can be painful, even though this area doesn’t  have many nerve endings. If it gets infected, it can stay painful. So, it’s super important to follow the aftercare instructions carefully. Fighting infections can be challenging because there’s not much blood flow in that part of your ear. Try not to touch the piercing when not cleaning it; this helps keep it clean and free from infections.

High-quality jewellery is the must for all your piercings, including helix ones. It makes sure your piercing has the best chance to heal well. Avoid jewellery made from materials like nickel that can irritate your skin. Surgical-grade steel is a good choice.

If you’re not keen on going through the pain and possible complications of a helix piercing, some fake piercings look natural and are easy to use without discomfort.

Best Jewellery for Helix Piercing

The best jewellery for a helix piercing is typically made of safe, hypoallergenic materials and suited for initial healing. Here are some standard options:

Surgical Stainless Steel: Surgical stainless steel is a commonly favoured option for piercings due to its durability, resistance to corrosion, and lower likelihood of triggering allergic reactions.

Look for jewellery labelled as “implant-grade” or “316LVM.”

Titanium: Titanium is lightweight, biocompatible, and highly resistant to corrosion. It’s an excellent choice for those with metal sensitivities.

Niobium: Niobium, a hypoallergenic metal similar to titanium, is a suitable choice for individuals with metal allergies.

14k or 18k Gold: High-quality gold, such as 14k or 18k, is safe for many people and adds a touch of luxury to your piercing. Ensure its nickel-free if you have metal allergies.

Bioplast: Bioplast is a flexible and biocompatible material frequently employed in the healing process of piercings, helping to minimize the potential for irritation.

Glass: Borosilicate glass is non-porous, hypoallergenic, and easy to clean. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a more unique style.

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): PTFE is a flexible, hypoallergenic material commonly used for initial piercings. When choosing jewellery for your Helix piercing, you must consider your individual preferences and any sensitivities or allergies you may have. Additionally, ensure the jewellery is the right size and style for your piercing to avoid discomfort or complications during the healing process. Consult a professional piercer for personalized recommendations and ensure the jewellery is inserted correctly.

“From Ancient Tribes to Modern Trends: A Fascinating Journey of Lip Piercings and Mouth Adornments”

Body piercing is a longstanding tradition involving the puncturing of body parts to create openings for the insertion of jewellery. This practice dates back thousands of years and serves various purposes, including religious, spiritual, sexual, and aesthetic reasons. Some forms of piercing, like ear and nose piercing, have been practiced for over five millennia, while newer types of body piercing have emerged with the advancement of civilization in the 21st century. Additional examples of body piercing include lip, tongue, navel, nipple, and genital piercings.

Lip piercing and mouth piercing: are practices where a hole is intentionally created on the lips or its surrounding areas to accommodate decorative jewellery, such as lip studs. The location of the piercing can vary around the mouth, but the actual surface of the lips is left untouched. There are several types of lip piercings, each with its own unique name and location on or around the lips. Some of these include the Monroe piercing (located off-center above the upper lip), Labret piercing (positioned in the center of the lower lip), Madonna piercing (placed on the right or left side above the upper lip), Jestrum piercing (center of the upper lip with a curved barbell), Vertical Labret piercing (vertical placement on the lower lip), Spider bite piercing (multiple piercings on one side of the lower lip), Scrumper (a combination of vertical labret and lower lip piercing), and Medusa piercing (center of the upper lip above the cupid’s bow). These various names indicate the specific style and placement of the lip piercing. This type of piercing is distinct from lip piercings and is commonly done to wear tongue rings or barbells.

Lip piercing: has a long historical background that can be traced across diverse African and American cultures. It was a prevalent tradition among various groups, such as the inhabitants of Papua New Guinea, the Dogon people of Mali, the Nuba people of Sudan and Ethiopia, and several tribes residing in the Amazon basin of South America. These cultures embraced lip piercing as a significant aspect of their customs and rituals. In the Pre-Columbian era, lip stretching was a prominent custom among South American populations and certain tribes in Malawi. This involved piercing the lips and gradually inserting plates or plugs to stretch and enlarge the lip area. The specific name for these lip discs in Malawi is “pelele.”

For the Dogon people of Mali, lip piercing holds a symbolic meaning that represents the creation of the world by their ancestor spirit. According to their myth, the goddess Noomi wove a thread through her teeth, and when it emerged from her lips, it transformed into speech. This sacred act is reenacted through lip piercing as a ritual practice in their culture.

Similarly, among the Makololo people of Southern Africa, lip piercing is a significant part of their cultural tradition. Makololo women adorn themselves with plates, known as “pelele,” in their upper lips. This practice is associated with betrothal rites, where the potential husband inserts the plate about six months before the marriage ceremony. The size of the plate holds great importance, as it correlates with the dowry the groom must offer to the bride’s family. The larger the plate worn by the bride, the higher the dowry expected from the groom.

The ancient Aztecs of central Mexico and the Mayans of southern Mexico engaged in various body modifications as part of their ritual and ceremonial practices. One such modification was lip piercing, which held special significance for different social groups.

For young males intended to become warriors, lip piercing was performed at a tender age. An ornament was inserted into the pierced hole and gradually stretched as they captured more war prisoners. On the other hand, labret piercing, a form of lip piercing, was reserved for males of higher castes. These privileged individuals adorned themselves with exquisite gold labrets shaped like serpents, often embellished with precious stones.

In the case of both lip and labret piercing, immediately after the initial piercing, no ornament was placed. This allowed for intentional bloodletting, seen as an offering to appease the deities and invoke their favor or protection. These body modifications were deeply rooted in the religious and cultural beliefs of the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, and they served as significant markers of status, identity, and connection with their spiritual beliefs.

Despite its ancient origins, Lip piercing continues to be embraced in modern society, primarily for aesthetic reasons. Today, people choose to undergo lip piercing to enhance their appearance and express their individuality through body adornment.

Lip piercing and mouth piercing Difference are related but distinct practices in body modification:

Lip Piercing: Lip piercing specifically involves creating a hole in or around the lips for the insertion of jewellery This type of piercing can be done on either the upper or lower lip, or even on the corners of the mouth. Common types of lip piercings include Monroe piercing (off-center above the upper lip), Labret piercing (center of the lower lip), Medusa piercing (center of the upper lip), and Spider bite piercing (multiple piercings on one side of the lower lip), among others.

Mouth Piercing: Mouth piercing, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses a variety of piercings done in and around the mouth area. It not only includes lip piercings but also encompasses other types of oral piercings, such as tongue piercing, frenulum piercing (piercing under the tongue), cheek piercing (through the cheek), and uvula piercing (piercing of the uvula at the back of the throat).In summary, lip piercing focuses specifically on piercing the lips, while mouth piercing refers to a wider range of piercings done in and around the mouth region.

Piercing as a Canvas for Self-Expression and Body Positivity

Sure! People get piercings for many different reasons. Some want to show off their unique style, while others want to feel more connected to their true selves. Some love the look of jewellery. But no matter if they get a piercing, there’s one thing they all have in common-it makes them feel happier and better about themselves!

Do you know that special feeling when you get a new piercing? You can’t stop looking in the mirror and are amazed by how much you love your new addition. That’s what we’re talking about! It’s a feeling of excitement and empowerment. Getting a piercing can be a way to express who you are and feel more confident. Some people feel like it’s a part of their identity, and it helps them feel more like themselves.

Piercings can also be a way to overcome fears and try something new. They can symbolise strength and courage, showing that you can overcome challenges and become stronger. And it’s not just about the piercing itself – the healing process can be a time of self-care and reflection, helping you appreciate your body and take better care of yourself.

Whether it’s a tiny stud, a cool hoop, or a bold statement piece, piercings can be a source of joy and positivity. They can unite people, create a sense of belonging, and promote body positivity. So, no matter why someone gets a piercing, it’s ultimately about feeling better about themselves and embracing their unique self-expression!

Getting a piercing can make you feel powerful. When you leave the place where you got pierced, you walk confidently, feeling like a total badass and wearing fabulous jewellery like a queen or king. That newfound confidence can even stay with you in your everyday life because you know you look fantastic and have the bravery to get the piercing you want.

Once your piercing is healed and you have your favourite jewellery in it, you can’t help but love yourself a little more. And guess what? That feeling gets even better with each new piercing you get. Some might say it has become a habit, but isn’t it just about becoming the best version of ourselves?

If getting some fresh body modifications helps you feel more love for yourself, it’s a deal you can’t say no to! Embracing who we are and feeling good about ourselves is what it’s all about. So, if a piercing can help you reach that place of self-love, go for it and rock your new look with pride!

Piercings can help break stereotypes about people with body modifications. Some people think only tough bikers get tattoos or that facial piercings are only for those without careers. They even believe facial tattoos can ruin your chances of getting a job anywhere. But the truth is, so many people with various levels of piercings and tattoos have successful careers, families, and friends and know nothing about riding motorcycles.

If you have more visible modifications, remember that you become a representative of the whole modified community. People might judge all others with changes based on their actions. To be a good ambassador and show the world that having a tattoo or piercing doesn’t stop you from achieving your dreams. They can be a meaningful part of your dreams!

Oh, and if you ride a motorcycle, whether you’re modified or not, please wear a helmet. We care about you and want you to stay safe and sound!

Piercings and other body modifications can be a form of visual art. When we are born, our bodies are like blank canvases. Some people prefer to keep them that way, while others love to decorate them! Your mods can be a simple accent to highlight your favourite features, commemorate special moments in your life, or just be there because they look pretty. Not every piercing needs to have a deep meaning behind it, and that’s okay. Sometimes we get them just because we like how they look, and that’s a valid reason too!

Remember, it’s your body; you can choose how you want to adorn it. If you wish to add a few extra accents or cover it in sparkly gems and charms, it’s all about what makes you feel good and confident in your skin. Embrace your uniqueness and express yourself through the beautiful art of body modifications!

Here are some simple reminders for taking care of your piercings:

  1. Aftercare is crucial for proper healing. Use sterile saline wound wash to keep your piercing clean and happy while it heals.
  2. Avoid touching or playing with your jewellery, especially with dirty hands.
  3. Choose a reputable piercer who uses titanium jewellery to ensure a positive piercing experience.
  4. If you encounter any issues with your piercing, don’t apply tea tree oil or boiled salt water. Instead, seek help from your piercer.

Remember, people get modified for their own reasons, but the common thread is that we all love our piercings. Embrace your piercings with confidence and empowerment. They shouldn’t stop you from having the life or look you desire; instead, they should give you the self-confidence to go out there and make it happen!

Navel Piercing Problems

In body adornment, belly piercings have emerged as a timeless and captivating form of self-expression. Spanning cultures and centuries, this intriguing practice has symbolized beauty, confidence, and individuality. From ancient traditions to modern fashion trends, belly piercings have transcended time, captivating both wearers and admirers alike.

Belly piercing, a popular and stylish body modification, can encounter various issues during healing. While this form of self-expression has stood the test of time, it’s essential to understand and address potential problems to ensure a smooth healing journey.

Although it is a sensitive subject, navel piercing issues have become a prevalent topic on the internet lately. Despite its popularity, belly piercing healing can be challenging and demands specific anatomy and care. If you have recently acquired a naval piercing showing signs of slow recovery or discomfort without any apparent infection, it is crucial to consider the following factors. This discussion excludes obvious cases of infection, as those are relatively easy to identify and treat. If your belly piercing doesn’t display signs of infection but exhibits abnormal behavior, continue reading for further information and guidance.

Belly Piercing Problems

To successfully get a belly piercing, it is essential to have specific anatomical features. By ensuring that your navel possesses a well-defined top lip, adequate depth, and satisfactory length, you increase the likelihood of a successful and visually appealing navel piercing. It is crucial to consult with an experienced piercer who can assess your individual anatomy and provide personalized advice based on your specific navel structure. Remember, everyone’s navel anatomy is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another.

If you lack the lip, you may consider a floating belly piercing, a surface piercing that mimics the appearance of a traditional belly piercing. However, if you observe that whenever you sit down, the top part of the jewellery is pushed upwards and out of the piercing hole, it indicates that your navel doesn’t provide enough space for the piercing. In such cases, consulting with your piercer about using a shorter barbell or a smaller bottom end is advisable. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that there may be situations where the issue cannot be resolved due to your anatomy.

Slow Healing and Discomfort-Another crucial factor to consider is the type of jewellery used for your belly piercing. While asymmetrical belly rings with larger bottom ball ends may look appealing, they are unsuitable for initial piercings. When you choose a belly ring for your piercing, it’s important to avoid ones with a large ball at the bottom. The weight of the bigger ball can cause problems during the healing process. It can create pressure bumps on the skin or make the jewellery move around too much. This can slow down the healing and cause discomfort.

So, it’s best to opt for a belly ring with a smaller and lighter bottom end to ensure a smoother healing experience. Additionally, the material of the jewellery significantly affects the healing process. When it comes to belly piercings, the recommended choice for jewellery is ASTM F-136 titanium. This type of jewellery is considered the industry standard because it is safe and high-quality. It’s important to look for belly rings made from this specific type of titanium. Additionally, it’s preferable to choose jewellery with threadless or internally threaded ends.

This ensures a secure and comfortable fit for your piercing. By opting for ASTM F-136 titanium jewellery with threadless or internally threaded ends, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are using the right type of jewellery for your belly piercing. It’s important to note that black jewellery should never be used for piercing purposes, regardless of its aesthetic appeal. Titanium cannot be anodized black, so much jewellery may pose potential risks.

Friction from Clothing and Lifestyle-If you frequently wear high-waisted pants, it’s essential to consider that they might contribute to your belly piercing issues. The friction caused by clothing rubbing against a new piercing can impede the healing process, mainly when the piercing is located on the torso, which experiences a lot of movement. It will create a barrier between your piercing and clothing, preventing rubbing or irritation. Additionally, cleaning your belly piercing twice daily using a sterile saline spray, typically used for wound cleaning, is essential. This practice is considered the industry standard for aftercare and effectively promotes proper piercing healing.

Irritation and infections are common problems with any piercing, including belly piercings. Irritation can result from rough clothing, excessive cleaning, or exposure to harsh chemicals. Infections, on the other hand, are usually caused by improper aftercare, poor hygiene, or contamination. Recognizing the signs of infection, such as persistent redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, is crucial. If an infection is suspected, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional who can provide appropriate treatment, typically involving antibiotics.

Migration and rejection are potential complications associated with belly piercings. Migration occurs when the jewellery shifts from its initial placement, while rejection is the body’s attempt to push the jewellery out ultimately. Both issues can be influenced by inadequate anatomy, excessive movement or friction, or using improper jewellery. If migration or rejection is suspected, seeking advice from a professional piercer is crucial. Prompt removal of the jewellery, under professional guidance, can minimize scarring and aid in the healing process.

Experiencing rejection is never pleasant, and it can be particularly disheartening when it happens to your piercings. Suppose you notice specific signs, such as reduced skin coverage over the barbell of your jewellery, redness, a more significant fistula, or heightened prominence of the barbell under the skin. In that case, your piercing may be going through a rejection process.

Rejection occurs when the body starts pushing the jewellery outward until it eventually gets expelled by external factors or naturally falls out. If you suspect your piercing is rejecting, it is highly recommended to consult your trusted piercer. In cases of a rejected piercing, it is crucial to remove the jewellery. Allowing the jewellery to work its way out independently can result in more severe scarring than promptly removing it under professional guidance.

Conclusion

The belly piercing has stood the test of time and remains popular. However, it is crucial to understand and follow some essential guidelines to ensure that your belly piercing heals successfully, becoming a cherished adornment rather than a mere scar with a story. Keeping these fundamental factors in mind and following proper care can increase the likelihood of a positive outcome for your belly piercing journey.

While belly piercings offer a fashionable and timeless form of self-expression, one must be aware of potential problems that can arise during the healing process. By following proper aftercare, using appropriate jewellery, and seeking professional guidance, you can navigate and overcome belly piercing problems, ensuring a successful and satisfying piercing experience.

Piercings Named after People: Exploring The Stories Behind Piercing Names

Piercings Named after People: Exploring The Stories Behind Piercing Names

Since the origin of piercings, they have become iconic because there are people who popularized them. Even some piercings are named after people that leave a mark on the world of body piercing and carry the legacies of those who connect with them. You will be surprised to know how those piercing’s names originated. Below are some of the popular piercings that are named after people.

  1.  Bridge Piercing /Earl Piercing

The bridge piercing gained popularity in the late 20th century when people wanted a piercing to another level. This piercing is done on the bridge of the nose between your eyebrows horizontally. The unique positioning of this piercing makes it different from other facial piercings. Dan Kopka did the very first bridge piercing, and he named it Earl Piercing. The first person who got this piercing was Erl Van Ekan. Thus bridge piercing was named after him.

  1.  Upper Lip Piercings /MONROE/MADONNA

This is one of the prevalent types of upper lip piercing. This piercing provides a bold accent to the upper lip when adorned with beautiful jewellery. The name Monroe/ Madonna was given to upper lip piercings after Marilyn Monroe’s iconic mole that was present on the left side of her lips. However, it is called Madonna (infamous popstar) if it’s on the right side because her mole was on the right side. These prominent ladies were popular because of the placement of their moles and  became beauty icons that inspired people a lot that they named the piercing after them.

  1. Inverted Vertical Labret Piercing/ ASHLEY

 This piercing has recently emerged and is also termed “Ashley” Although there is less evidence as to how it got the name, people assume that it might be the first woman Ashley who got this piercing, or it may have come from the piercer who developed it. It looks like a vertical labret or jestrum, but unlike other traditional labret piercing that carries entry and exit points on the outside of the lip, Ashley piercing has an exit point on the inner side of the mouth, thus creating a charismatic look. As time passed, this piercing gained popularity and started known as Ashley Piercing.

  1.  Philtrum Piercing /MEDUSA ‘

A facial piercing is an ideal way to be unique, and Medusa can’t be missed on anyone’s face. You might have heard the name Medusa in Greek mythology. Whoever turns around to see her becomes a stone. The name Medusa is given to the Philtrum piercing because the central position is so prominent on her face, and this piercing resembles it. This piercing enhances facial features and gives you a bold and unique look that grabs everyone’s attention.

  1. Tongue Frenulum Piercing/MARLEY

This unique oral piercing gained popularity in recent years and was given the name “Marley” to acknowledge the legendary Jamaican musician Bob Marley. He was recognized for his distinctive image and reggae music. Moreover, he was a musician who often used to show off his frenulum by extending his tongue. This inspired people to get their frenulum pierced to make a statement. This piercing is usually done on the frenulum that is present near the tongue and is adorned with jewellery that will create a visually appealing and captivating look.

  1. Vertical Philtrum Piercing /JESTRUM

Vertical Philtrum Piercing is done in the middle of the upper lip. This piercing is similar to vertical labret, but the only difference is it is done vertically on the upper lip and then the bottom lip. This piercing is also known as Jestrum piercing. The name was given to it by Derek Lowe of Saint Sabrina, who first did this piercing on a woman named Jesika Bornsen so he combined the first initial with the word “philtrum”. In the early 21st century, this piercing gained distinction in piercing communities and body modification.

  1.  Anti-Eyebrow Piercing /CLEOPATRA

Anti-eyebrow piercing has gained popularity in recent years due to its visually striking characteristics. It is a surface piercing that is done below the eyebrow and can be adorned with a small dermal anchor or surface barbell to create a delicate and eye-catching effect. Cleopatra was the Egyptian pharaoh queen known for her alluring presence and beauty. She uses fashion and ornamentations to express her power and allure; thus, the name Cleopatra was given for anti-eyebrow piercing not because she has the piercing but because of her distinctive facial adornments this name is given to pay homage to her fashion sense and iconic beauty.

  1. Deep Snug Piercing/ RAGNAR

Deep snug piercing is one of the rare piercings done through the inner cartilage fold of the ear, also called an antihelix. Due to its versatility, it gained popularity. There Ragnar Stedt. She was the first person who got this piercing; thus, it was named Ragnar Piercing; surprisingly, around 2002, the first formal photograph of this piercing was done under the label Ragnar. Although Ragnar does not have a generally recognized historical background due to its aesthetic appeal and captivating look, it inspires people to get it done.

Concluding to this, there is always a story behind any piercing. The piercings, as mentioned above, are a few of them. Every piercing has a historical background and cultural significance. People feel connected with the piercing spiritually and ritually. The piercings named after people hold a special place in the world of body piercing. There is always someone who popularized the particular type of piercing that now becomes a trend. Thus, naming the piercing after people pay tribute to those influential figures and encapsulates their influence on piercing culture.

NEW TREND IN TOWN; FINGER PIERCING AKA “ENGAGEMENT RING TREND”

It is in human nature that they love to experiment with different ways to look unique and different from others. Nevertheless, nowadays or young generation is keen to experiment with their bodies by getting tattoos or piercings. Finger piercing is just one of the upcoming trends that attract the youth these days.

Yes, you heard it right; finger piercing; you might get astounded, and many questions will arise in your mind like How it can be done?

 Does it hurt your finger or not etc.? This blog will give you a complete understanding of finger piercing. Keep reading if you decide to go for it.!

What is Finger Piercing?

If we talk about this piercing, it is generally a type of surface dermal piercing where your whole hand can be pierced. It is not your regular piercing; in fact, it’s different from other piercings, so you need to consider a lot of things before getting it done.

There is always some history behind every piercing of how it started, But finger piercing is not such an old trend; it was initiated by some Millennials from New York when married couples pierced their fingers with diamonds instead of wearing engagement rings. This trend is now spreading around Britain, also known as the “engagement ring trend.”

A finger piercing is a quite new idea, and it is done on any part of the finger as micro dermal piercing. A micro dermal piercing differs from a regular piercing as the plate or anchor is placed just underneath the skin and the top screwed onto it. As fingers are the most used body part, sometimes the risk of infection or rejection is high, making it difficult for the piercing to heal.

Procedure for Dermal Finger Piercing

– The piercing specialist takes a sterile needle or a dermal punch and hygienic piercing jewellery, which is all packaged together in a sterile bag

– Piercer will then cleanses the skin with a surgical scrub, and to make it painless, your piercer will apply a numbing cream.

– a sterilized needle will be used to make a hole or perforation into the skin 

– A pouch will be created beneath the surface of the skin where the piercer will place the plate or anchor of the jewellery by using forceps, and then the top of the jewellery will be screwed.

Aftercare

For every kind of piercing, aftercare is the most important thing. Finger piercing can cause lasting damage, but you can reduce the risk with care.

  1. Keep the piercing area clean with a saline solution every time.
  2. Avoid touching the piercing to avoid infection
  3. Avoid using fragranced soaps, detergents or lotions on the pierced skin.
  4. Limit the movement of your fingers, and don’t disturb the piercing
  5. This piercing might take one year to heal; till then, take good care of it.

Will a Finger Piercing Hurt?

The answer is yes, it can be hurtful, but I’ll let you in on a secret- it can be, but it’s not terrible! Your piercer will use numbing cream to lessen the pain, so put your faith in their expertise.

Jewellery Types

Jewellery recommended for this type of piercing includes an anchor or a late implanted below the skin; you have to screw it from the top. Like a regular piercing, you can change the top part of the piercing with the jewellery of your choice.

Considering the area’s sensitivity, the piercer recommends not to disturb the jewellery and avoid changing it more often as it might irritate.

Conclusion

Thus before getting your finger pierced, make sure to opt for a professional pierce and be prepared and careful when getting the piercing as there are perilous nerves, vessels or tendons that may get affected. The movement of the finger might cause problems like late healing or rejection of the piercing. Keep in mind the following thing before going for it

  1. Find a professional piercer who has prior experience in dermal piercing
  2. Try reaching out to people who have already done it; speak to them to get an idea
  3. Ask questions related to it, including healing time, pain level, precautions etc

Silver metal beads with Jewelry

Silver metal beads

by Binasaji

Silver has been used to create jewelry since time immemorial. The Navajos combined silver with turquoise to make gorgeous jewelry pieces like the Squash Blossom necklaces and silver bracelets with inlay work. These are popular even today. Silver is cheaper than gold but is equally attractive; with men and women, both wearing silver jewelry.

$_35

 

 

Available in a range of finishes – dull, bright, oxidized and a tantalizing choice of designs, silver beaded jewelry is versatile and economical – purchasing several pieces is affordable and the ornaments can be funky, traditional or formal. Silver chunky beaded jewelry often teamed with darker colored gemstones like navy blue, dark green or deep reds are now sported by men – not just as rings but also chains, bracelets and amulets. Dull or tarnished silver beads complement the tough exteriors of stylish men and make great gifts – different from the traditional clothes and perfumes. Oxidized silver jewelry can be bought off the streets at dirt-cheap prices (although the purity of the metal is questionable).

Other than silver, gold is the other precious metal popularly used to make beaded jewelry. Platinum being highly priced is also used but is available at select premium outlets which cater to an exclusive clientele.

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Silver Facts

Silver shining beads have an allure that makes jewellery sparkle and liven up the dullest outfits. Pure silver is extremely malleable and lends itself to making very thin sheets and wires. Silver can be made into sheets so thin that they are almost transparent and allow light to pass through. In fact, over one hundred thousand such sheets placed over each other will equal only one inch! Thin wires finer than a human hair can be drawn out of pure silver easily. Although good quality silver stays bright for a long time eventually, it starts to blacken as the pollutants in the atmosphere react with it.

For jewellery making purposes, silver is mixed with other metals especially copper to form an alloy which gives it strength, the addition also makes it possible to craft the silver into desired shapes and sizes.

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Types of Silver beads

While all silver used for crafting jewellery is not 100% pure, it helps to know the common terms referred to while buying silver beaded jewellery. Silver is marked as per its purity – pure silver jewellery will refer to a minimum mix of copper ranging from 1% to 3% in pure silver.

Sterling silver beads have at least 7.5% of copper mixed and are approximately 92.5% pure. Sterling silver is stronger than pure silver and it is easier to carve and mold sterling silver beads. These beads usually have a dull finish and the niches are tarnished giving them a vintage appearance. In some countries, sterling silver is not called sterling but is marked .925 indicating the purity of the silver is 92.5%.

Nickel silver or German silver is so called only because it resembles silver beads. These beads have no silver in them and are actually an alloy of copper, nickel and zinc.

Handmade silver beads can make heads turn with their beautiful designs and carvings. Some of the most popular handmade silver beads come from the island nations of Bali and Thailand . The former is known as Bali Silver and the latter as Hill Tribe Silver. These gifted silver artisans create tiny works of art with their hands and usually it is impossible to find two pieces which are alike. These beads have very distinct designs – mostly depicting images from nature (animals, trees, birds, flowers etc.) and are usually tarnished or oxidized. Most of these beads are sterling silver in order to achieve the traditional effect.

Manual techniques and very few implements are employed by the artisans in these island nations to create interesting designs which have found acclaim throughout the world. Silver is melted and then either made into sheets and wires or poured into moulds. The wires or sheets are cut to create various shapes and sizes of beads. Some beads are made by poking holes in the sheets and fusing wires onto it creating gorgeous filigreed beads. Designs are sometimes engraved onto the beads giving it the distinct appearance of Bali Silver and Hill Tribe silver. The last part of the process is oxidization, where the beads are dipped into various liquids to highlight the images on the bead.

Buying & Caring tips

Hollow silver beads are lighter than the solid ones and care should be taken while using beaded jewellery with hollow silver beads as they can dent easily. Solid silver beads should be bought from reliable stores since they could easily be pewter beads with just a silver plate on top. Compare prices – solid silver beads will be more expensive than silver plated beads and will weigh lesser than them since pewter is heavier than silver. .

Always check the purity of the silver before buying beads – the price of sterling silver beads will be cheaper than pure silver although the amount of effort and time spent in carving or finishing the bead will also determine the price. Handcrafted beads will usually cost more.

Many manufacturers now machine make beads and call them Bali Silver and Hill Tribe Silver since the designs are the same as the authentic Bali and Hill Tribe silver beads. Make sure you check the authenticity of the origination on the beads before purchasing handcrafted beaded jewellery.

Buy your silver jewellery after deciding the purpose, if you require it for daily wear, buy beads which have the least amount of metals added – the silver should be at least 98% to 99% pure. Higher purity will ensure no tarnish for a longer time although the design of the beads should be such that it can tolerate the stress of daily usage.

Over a period of time, silver tarnishes. Pure silver tarnishes slowly and silver mixed with other metals has a quicker rate of blackening. This is also a test to check the purity of your silver beads.

Many silver beaded jewellery carry a tarnished appearance to give the piece depth and an antique look. One needs to be very careful while cleaning (if required) such silver beaded ornaments. The tarnish can be removed with anti-tarnish polishes, or even lemon juice or toothpaste with a soft cloth.

Cleaning silver beaded jewellery embellished with crystals or enameled beads or any other beads treated with coatings need special care. Remember the anti-tarnish polish or lemon juice will react with the coatings and normally expose the bead under the coating ruining the complete piece.

Store your silver beads away from pollutants in a soft cloth bag or airtight plastic covers. Remember to wipe the silver after use and avoid spraying harmful chemicals on it. Unless, you like the tarnished look, don’t wear your silver beads while swimming or in the shower.

Delicate filigreed beads, carved by the tribal artisans, wound around semi-precious stones, chunky large stand alone beads as pendants – silver beads are always in vogue.


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Roman Empire Sparkle Jewelry

 

The Sparkle of Jewelry in the Roma

The Sparkle of Jewelry in the Roman Empire

by Shalini Kagal

Jewelry designs and trends during Roman empire period – The strange thing is that the Romans were when the empire first began, rather austere in their tastes – their food, their clothes, their ornaments. What they wore was more functional rather than flaunting. Then came the army’s success as they began to spread out and conquer. Soon, Spartan gave way to Style. This could have been due to two reasons. One, the fact that they saw a new world out there where many dressed in a more resplendent manner and flaunted jewelry. Two, the fact that very often they carried back the spoils of war of which gold and precious stones formed a part. By the first century B.C., there was a variety of jewelry available with a wide choice of designs.

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The first foray was probably into
gold as this was the metal that they
brought back most often from their
conquests. Then, the trend grew to
embrace both Greek and Eastern
influences. So we see beads made of
glass, colored stones and the use of
silver as well as the rare bronze.
After all, according to Homer,
wasn’t this the metal used to
fashion Achilles’ shield? We also
see the use of pearls and bone.

It all started with piercing – but
piercing with a purpose. The men
pierced themselves as a show of
strength. If they pierced their
nipples, it symbolized both their
loyalty to their empire as well as
being a symbol of power. In fact the
gladiators would pierce various
parts of their body believing that
this was supposed to protect them
from injuries.

As interest in jewelry grew, the
early designs show a marked leaning
towards the Greek styles. However,
with time, a more distinctive Roman
style seems to emerge. The Romans
had a partiality for stones like
emeralds, sapphires, rubies and
topaz. They also had a choice of
pendants which were encased in gold
and were cameos. Some of them were
made to be large enough to hold a
bit of perfume. These were in full
display with the ladies who came to
watch the chariot races as they
began to get more popular in Rome.
The horses too, especially the ones
that took part in the races, were
decked out in pearls and stones
woven into their tails and their
manes. The young boys usually wore a
neck chain or a ‘bulla’ which had a
small pouch that contained
protective amulets.
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The Romans were very conscious of
their status in society. So clothes
became important items of
demarcation between the various
classes – between those born free
and the slaves, as well as the many
classes in polite society. Jewelry
therefore became a very important
status symbol together with clothing
to make this distinction.

 

Roman Jewelry

 

 

 

 

One
could see a lot of gold
hemispherical shapes which were made
into earrings, necklaces or
bracelets. The men usually were a
little more subtle and their jewelry
was constrained to one finger ring.
At first these rings were made of
iron, then of gold. Then precious
stones were used for rings as were
semiprecious stones like chalcedony
and carnelian. The trend grew
however and there were some Roman
men who wore a ring on every finger.
Roman women were said to wear
friendship rings as well. Both men
and women wore carved rings – the
stone was often carved so it would
facilitate sealing documents. The
ring was pressed into hot wax and
the document sealed. This practice
continued well into the later times
when kings used this method to seal
anything.

The trend of relief where silver
ornaments and vessels was concerned
was practiced in the fourth century
B.C. This type of ornamentation was
done a lot in the Greek era and it
permeated all silverwork right
through the Roman civilization.
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The most popular item of jewelry by
far however, was the brooch. This
was what held most Roman clothing
together. It really was an
ornamental safety pin but the Romans
raised it to a work of art. In fact,
you can find variations of it in far
flung parts of the Roman Empire.
What was unique at that point of
time was the clasp or the ‘fibula’.
Though the brooches served a very
functional purpose – that of holding
clothing together – they were
beautifully made. There were laurel
leaves, branches of palms, winged
eagles and goddesses.
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From what has been unearthed and is
now in the museums, one realizes
that over two centuries ago, this
empire had jewelry that used
diamonds from India and sapphires
from Sri Lanka. In the England of
the Roman era, ‘jet’ or fossilized
wood was used to make jewelry. The
ancient Romans used a lot of amber
in their jewelry as well. Amber is
the resin from fossilized trees and
it was referred to as the ‘gold of
the north’. One sees that a lot of
ornaments fashioned out of amber
were made during the second century
B.C. Many of the ancient
civilizations made jewelry out of
amber and they were much-prized
possessions. Remains of amber
workshops have been found in parts
of Europe.

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The women wore beautifully designed
jewelry in their ears, fingers,
around their necks, on their clothes
and even in their hair! As well
designed as their brooches and
clothes pins were, equally so were
their jeweled hair pins. Of course,
some of the jewelry was worn by the
superstitious – and there were many
of them – to ward off what they
called the ‘evil eye’.
df66a18b2022b45408064696f1f534adMany of the Roman designs and ideas
were spread through their conquests
of places near and far and many just
spread and got mixed with the
neighboring cultures after the
decline of the Roman Empire. Soon,
one saw a change from a more
barbaric and resplendent taste in
jewelry in the conquered regions to
a more understated, elegant one.
So even though the ‘grandeur that
was Rome’, sung about by poets and
philosophers waned, their
contribution to the world of jewelry
design did not. It grew, changed and
flourished all over the world

 


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Ruby in History

Ruby in History

by Yuman Hussain

Ruby in history talks about the special place of ruby as a gemstone in historical perspective. It was a highly prized stone almost equally the diamond in value and beauty right from the beginning of the human civilization. Its virtues are mentioned in Bible and many ancient and medieval Indian and western texts and treatises.

Ruby known as the king of gems is considered to be a prized possession
throughout the history of mankind. They are treasured by royalty and
religious heads and held in awe by commoners over considerable period of
time. There are several traditions and legends associated with ruby in
history. Bible’s mentions that the price of wisdom is above rubies signify
the importance of rubies since antiquity. No wonder the appreciation for
this beautiful stone has united people across the nations, continents and
empires.

Ruby

Ruby is mentioned as one of the twelve precious stones created by God
when he created mankind. It is mentioned in “Lapidaire en Vers” of Philippe
de Valois that Ruby, the lord of gems was given to Aaron on the command of
Jesus Christ. It adorned the Aaron’s breastplate and was symbol of Judah.
Christian leaders also loved rubies right from the medieval period. During
this period rubies were considered even more valuable than diamonds. In 16th
century these were priced 8 times higher than other stones. Great Poets and
authors from Chaucer to Shakespeare have written extensively in the praise
of the ruby’s beauty and brilliance.

Ancient Indian legends said that God first created ruby and later created
man to possess it. India was seen as country of gemstones due to abundance
of precious stones among the royalty. The word corundum is taken from the
Sanskrit word ‘Kuruvinda’. Ruby was given the name of ‘Ratnaraj’ literally
meaning ‘King of Gemstones’ and ‘Ratnanayaka’ meaning ‘Leader of precious
stones’. Another name describing the beauty of the stone was ‘Padmaraga’
meaning ‘Red as the Lotus’. Ruby as a gemstone was divided into different
categories just like caste system by the ancient Indians. The oriental Ruby
was a Brahman followed by Rubicelle as a Kshatriya; the Spinel was
considered a Vaisya and Balas ruby as Sudra. The one who possessed the
Pasmaraga or the Brahman Ruby considered to be safe from the evil eyes and
enemies. His fortune said to be that of a king. It was also held that good
quality stone should be preserved carefully to enhance their quality.

Ruby as a gemstone has captured the imagination of many civilizations and
there are many myths surround this stunning stone. The kings and the
emperors used ruby to decorate their insignia. The royalty favored rubies as
they believed that it would ward off danger .The red color would darken and
once the danger is past it would return to its original color. People also
believed that ruby would act only in possession of right suitors. It was
also held that the stone has power of fire which could even made the water
boil. It was said to remove evil thoughts and influence the decisions and
mental and physical health of the wearer. The dark colored and star rubies
were considered as male stones and those lighter in shade were suppose to be
female stones. Ruby had come to be associated with valor and courage. One
legend says that ruby used to be implanted under the skins of warriors to
help them face enemies bravely. Many ancient tribes used gems as a war
weapons for its hardness.

Ruby has been derived from Latin word ‘ruber’ meaning red. It is
associated with Tuesday, summer season and St Mathew. Ancient tradition says
that ruby glows with inner fire so it was also known as glowing stone
.According to ancient Chinese texts ruby was used for lighting the royal
chambers. Hindu priests held that gemstones like rubies and emeralds lighted
the homes of the deities. Greeks legends speak about huge rubies which were
given to Heraclea by the female stork to lighten her room as a token of her
kindness.

The history of ruby mining can
be traced as early as 2500 BC. Burma’s ruby mining areas have reported
presence of pre-historic tools showing the fascination of people with
gemstones. Sir John Mandeville in his fourteenth century treatise mentioned
several virtues of the Ruby. According to him those who possess the
brilliant specimen are assured of peace and harmony. They would be protected
from their enemies and the stone would guide their houses and property. The
treatise advised the wearer to set the ruby in a ring or a bracelet and for
best results it should be worn on the left side of the body. Jean Tavernier
a famous 17th century traveler had also written extensively on rubies in his
well known travelogue ‘Travels.’ The ruby as a color of heart has also
inspired passion and romance for centuries. It was also considered to have
magical properties invoking good fortune for the wearer. Romans considered
rubies as carbunculus. Ruby elixirs are mentioned in apothecary and medical
texts having medicinal and curative powers.

Throughout history gems like
spinel and
garnet had been confused with ruby.
Till 1800 red colored gemstones were called rubies. Many so called large
precious rubies in the crowns of French and English monarchs had been turn
out to be spinel instead. The most prominent being the “Black Prince’s ruby”
which adorns the English royal crown is a spinel. The other famous stone is
Timur Ruby which is 352 carat red spinel is now with British monarchy.
However there are some beautiful rubies in the history like Rosser Reeves
Star Ruby (137 carat) at Smithsonian Institute, Edith Haggin De Long star
ruby (100 carat) displayed at American Museum of Natural History and Edward
Ruby (167 carat) in British Museum of Natural History.
Man’s fascination for beauty has led to the love for precious gemstones.
Ruby has and will always have a special place in the history of civilization
due to its brilliant color, cut and fine features.


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Caring Tips

Diamonds are a woman’s best friend. A diamond has the lustrous shine that attracts everyone towards it. The shine and glow of this gemstone can be retained forever with appropriate precautions and care. It is the hardest stone, with a hardness of 10 on the Moh’s scale. Even then it is possible for a diamond to get chipped, scratched or damaged in a piece of jewelry. This could be due to improper setting techniques during manufacturing or careless use by the wearer. Therefore, it is very crucial to take safety measures to avoid spoiling the stone. This article would give the reader the general know-how about all the aspects that would help in preventing the gemstone from the any kind of damage..

using ultrasonic cleaner
using ultrasonic cleaner

 

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