This is another common questions I get asked:
“Can I bring my own jewelry to get pierced with?”
The short answer? Sometimes. But not always.
Let’s dive into the why, the when, and the what-if.


🔬 Why We’re (Usually) Cautious About Outside Jewelry

When it comes to piercing (especially initial piercings) the jewelry you wear isn’t just about style. It’s a medical-grade implant that needs to work with your body, not against it. I follow APP (Association of Professional Piercers) standards, which means I only use jewelry that meets strict material and manufacturing guidelines.

Your safety comes first.

Jewelry that looks fine to the eye might have:

  • Microscopic flaws that trap bacteria
  • Unpolished surfaces that irritate healing tissue
  • Mystery metals that can cause allergic reactions
  • Incorrect sizing that leads to swelling, embedding, or migration

💎 If You Want to Bring Your Own Jewelry…

Here’s what I need to know:

  1. What material is it made from?
    • I only pierce with ASTM F-136 titanium, solid 14k/18k gold, ASTM F-138 stainless steel (in some healed piercings), niobium, or verified biocompatible glass.
  2. Who made it?
    • Is it from a trusted manufacturer like Anatometal, Industrial Strength, BVLA, NeoMetal, etc.? Or was it ordered from an unknown online shop?
  3. Is it brand new and sterilizable?
    • All jewelry must be new or never worn, and must be able to withstand autoclave sterilization without degrading.
  4. Is it appropriate for the piercing you want?
    • Jewelry needs to be the right length, gauge, and shape for your anatomy. That cute little hoop might work for a healed nostril, but not for a fresh piercing.

I reserve the right to decline using outside jewelry if it doesn’t meet these standards. That’s not about being picky; it’s about avoiding issues that could compromise your healing or safety.


🚫 Jewelry We Won’t Use for Initial Piercings

  • Previously worn jewelry
  • Mystery metal jewelry (think Amazon, Etsy, or mall kiosks)
  • Jewelry made of plastic, silicone, or acrylic
  • Clickers or hinged jewelry that can’t be fully sterilized
  • Hoops for piercings that should heal with studs

Even if it looks beautiful, if I can’t verify its safety, it’s not going in your body. Period.


💬 “But I Already Bought Something!”

I get it! If you’ve already purchased a piece and you’re unsure, bring it in for a consultation. If it’s safe and I can use it, I’ll let you know. If not, I can help you choose something similar from our wide selection of implant-grade titanium or solid gold jewelry.


💡 Our Jewelry = Peace of Mind

All of my jewelry is:

  • Verified implant-grade
  • Individually inspected for flaws
  • Sized correctly for your piercing and anatomy
  • Sterilized on-site before each use

We carry high-end brands like BVLA, Anatometal, Industrial Strength, Pupil Hall, Buddha Jewelry, and more. You’re welcome to come in and browse or schedule a consult to talk options.


📍 Book Your Piercing Appointment

I’m appointment-only at Bound for Glory Tattoo in Staten Island. You can text me at 347-770-7653 or book your session directly at book.ipricku.com.

I’m here to keep you stylish and safe; and I’ll always be honest about what’s best for your body.