It's probably the question we hear more than any other.

"I'd like to buy some earrings."

It sounds simple enough, but our answer is often a little more complicated than people expect.  The reason is simple: our jewellery isn't designed like traditional butterfly-back earrings.

Not All Earrings Are Created Equal

Most high street earrings use a butterfly back. The post passes through the ear and the butterfly simply slides backwards or forwards until it feels comfortable. If your earlobes are a little thicker, you simply leave it slightly looser. If they're thinner, you push it further down the post. One pair of earrings can therefore fit lots of different people because the back is adjustable.

Professional body jewellery works very differently.

Why We Use Labret Jewellery

At Isha, the vast majority of our ear jewellery uses a labret post. Instead of the decorative end going through the ear first, the smooth post is inserted from the back of the ear. A flat disc sits comfortably against the back of the lobe while the decorative attachment pushes or screws securely onto the front. The result is jewellery that's incredibly comfortable to wear, less likely to catch on hair or clothing, secure enough for everyday life and suitable for both healed piercings and many fresh piercings. Once you've worn labret jewellery, it's easy to understand why so many of our clients never want to go back to butterfly backs.

Why Size Matters

What many people don't realise is that these labret posts come in different lengths. Posts are available in a range of sizes, typically from 4mm right up to 20mm, depending on the anatomy and where the jewellery is being worn.

No two ears are the same. Some people have beautifully delicate lobes, while others naturally have much thicker tissue. Previous piercings, scar tissue and even the position of the piercing can all affect which length is needed. A post that's too short can feel tight and uncomfortable, while one that's too long may move excessively, become irritating or simply not look as neat as it should. Choosing the correct size is just as important as choosing the jewellery itself.

When someone comes into the studio wanting to buy jewellery for themselves, it's usually quite straightforward. We can assess the thickness of their lobe, measure the jewellery they need and help them choose a beautiful attachment that fits correctly. It's all part of the service we provide and one of the reasons so many people travel to us from across Dorset and beyond.

Buying Jewellery for Yourself

Buying Jewellery As A Gift

Where things become much more difficult is when someone wants to buy jewellery for a partner, friend or family member. We completely understand why people want to surprise someone special, but it's impossible for us to professionally size an ear we've never seen. Without seeing their anatomy, we'd only be guessing which post length they need—and that's not something we're prepared to do.

As professional piercers, we'd much rather be honest than sell something that may not fit properly. We know it can sometimes seem disappointing when we can't simply hand over a pair of earrings from the display cabinet, but our priority has always been providing jewellery that fits correctly, not simply making a sale.

So what do we recommend?

If the recipient already wears professional body jewellery with interchangeable labret posts, buying just the decorative attachment can be a wonderful option. They may already have the correct post fitted, allowing them to simply change the front and create a completely new look.

If you're not sure what jewellery they currently wear, an Isha Gift Card is often the perfect solution. It allows them to visit us, choose the piece they truly love and, most importantly, we'll ensure it's fitted with the correct post length for their anatomy. It removes all of the guesswork while giving them the experience of choosing something that's perfect for them.

Luxury Jewellery Deserves a Professional Fit

Our jewellery isn't mass-produced fashion jewellery. It's precision-made, high-quality body jewellery that's designed to fit comfortably, look beautiful and last for years. That's why we take sizing so seriously.

I hope this explains why the answer to "Can I just buy some earrings?" isn't always as straightforward as it first appears. Every ear is different, and I'd always rather spend a little extra time making sure someone's jewellery fits perfectly than compromise on the comfort, fit or experience of the person who'll be wearing it.

After all, professional jewellery deserves a professional fit, and that's exactly what we strive to provide every single day.  If you're unsure which jewellery is right for you, pop into the studio or book a jewellery styling appointment. We'd be delighted to help you find the perfect fit.