What Is Permanent Jewelry?
Permanent jewelry is a custom-fit bracelet, anklet, or necklace that’s welded closed instead of using a clasp. A pulse-arc welder fuses a tiny jump ring to secure the chain. The weld is quick, safe, and does not touch the skin. Clients wear the jewelry daily and remove it only if they choose.
How to Do Permanent Jewelry (Quick Answer)
To do permanent jewelry, you measure the client’s wrist, cut their chosen chain to size, close a jump ring at the ends, position the seam on a grounding block, and use a pulse-arc welder to fuse the ring shut. The weld takes less than a second and creates a seamless, clasp-free piece.
Tools You Need to Do Permanent Jewelry
Pulse-Arc Welder
A pulse-arc welder creates clean, precise micro-welds. Look for adjustable settings, consistency, and safety features.
(EVERARC™ is the first welder engineered by permanent jewelers for permanent jewelers.)
Protective Welding Screen
A protective screen shields you and the client from the light flash during welding.
(EVERSHIELD™ and EVERSHIELD™ Plus are industry-leading options.)
High-Quality Chain
Use durable, weld-friendly materials:
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Gold-filled
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Sterling silver
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10k gold
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14k gold
High-quality metals create cleaner welds and last longer.
Jewelry Tools
You’ll need:
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Jump rings
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Jewelry cutters
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Needle-nose pliers
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Balancing block or grounding block
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Skin protectors
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Grounding wire
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Measuring tape or calipers
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Jewelry polishing cloth
A full starter kit is ideal for new artists because it includes everything you need.
How to Do Permanent Jewelry: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose the Chain
Let the client pick their preferred style and metal. Dainty chains are most commonly used for bracelets and anklets.
2. Measure & Fit
Wrap the chain around the wrist or ankle, adjust the fit, and cut the chain to the correct length.
3. Prepare Your Workstation
Turn on the welder, position your protective screen, set the grounding wire, and ensure the client’s skin is protected with pads.
4. Attach the Jump Ring
Use pliers to connect the chain ends with a jump ring. The ends must meet cleanly so the weld can fuse properly.
5. Weld the Jump Ring
Place the seam on the grounding block. Use the welder to create a quick micro-weld. The weld happens in a fraction of a second and should fully seal the jump ring.
6. Inspect & Polish
Check for a complete, smooth seal. Polish the area with a jewelry cloth and ensure the chain sits comfortably.
Is Permanent Jewelry Safe?
Yes — permanent jewelry is safe when performed correctly with proper tools. The weld never touches the skin, produces minimal heat, and uses controlled micro-sparks. A protective screen and grounding setup keep clients fully safe during their appointment.
How Long Does Permanent Jewelry Last?
Permanent jewelry can last months or years depending on lifestyle and chain type. Normal daily wear won’t damage it, but snagging, tension, or chemicals may weaken the chain. If a piece breaks, it can typically be rewelded easily.
How to Practice Permanent Jewelry
Before working with clients, practice welding on:
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Jump rings
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Scrap chain
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Sample pieces
Aim to master:
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Clean seams
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Proper grounding
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Weld consistency
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Correct angles
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Power settings
Practicing helps you build confidence and speed.
Do You Need Training to Do Permanent Jewelry?
You do not need a formal license to do permanent jewelry, but proper training is highly recommended. Training teaches you technique, safety, chain selection, troubleshooting, client setup, pricing, and best practices. It dramatically accelerates your skills and helps you avoid common mistakes.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
Beginners often struggle with:
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Leaving gaps in jump rings
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Cutting chains too short
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Not grounding properly
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Welding away from the seam
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Using low-quality chain
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Rushing client fittings
With practice, these issues become easy to avoid.
How Much Does It Cost to Start Doing Permanent Jewelry?
Most beginners invest in a welder, protective screen, chains, jump rings, tools, and training. Startup costs vary, but many artists earn back their investment within their first few events, given the low overhead and high margins of permanent jewelry.
FAQ
Can anyone do permanent jewelry?
Yes — with proper tools, training, and practice, beginners can learn quickly.
Does permanent jewelry hurt?
No. The weld does not touch the skin, and clients simply see a small flash of light.
What metals are best for permanent jewelry?
Gold-filled, sterling silver, 10k gold, and 14k gold are the most durable and weld-friendly.
How do you remove permanent jewelry?
Use cutters to snip the jump ring. It can be rewelded later.
How long does the weld last?
A clean weld lasts indefinitely, although chains may break from normal wear or accidental snagging.