Body jewellery sits inside a healing wound, so materials must meet stricter standards than ordinary fashion jewellery. Using certified, biocompatible materials reduces the risk of irritation, allergic reactions, infection, migration and delayed healing.
At Isha Body Jewellery, every piece is selected to align with the Association of Professional Piercers (APP) minimum standards and current verification practices.
Solid Gold (14ct or higher)
Only solid 14ct or higher gold (yellow, white or rose) is appropriate
Must be nickel-free and cadmium-free
Never plated, vermeil or filled
When alloyed correctly, solid gold is suitable for initial piercings and long-term wear
Implant-Grade Titanium
Titanium approved for initial piercings must meet one of these implant-grade standards:
ASTM F136 / ISO 5832-3 (6Al-4V ELI)
ASTM F1295 (6Al-7Nb)
Titanium is extremely strong, lightweight, nickel-free and biocompatible. It can also be anodised for colour without altering safety.
Implant-Grade Stainless Steel
Only the following grade of stainless steel is acceptable for initial piercings:
ASTM F138 or ISO 5832-1
This steel is designed for medical implants and offers excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Other steel grades are not suitable for new piercings.
Niobium
Niobium must meet:
ASTM B392
Niobium is naturally nickel-free, hypoallergenic, corrosion-resistant and safe for long-term wear. It can be anodised into vibrant colours while remaining biocompatible, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin.
Borosilicate Glass (and other fused glass varieties)
Approved glass materials include:
Fused quartz
Lead-free borosilicate glass
Lead-free soda-lime glass
These glasses are smooth, inert, non-reactive and safe for both healed and many initial piercings when properly manufactured. They are also safe in MRI and X-ray environments.
We offer:
Lab-created stones (e.g., Swarovski® zirconia, synthetic opal)
Genuine gemstones (amethyst, moonstone, labradorite, sapphire, genuine opal)
Conflict-free diamonds
For initial piercings, gemstone jewellery must be set securely in APP-appropriate metals and finished to the same smoothness standards as implant-grade jewellery.
Correct Material Standards
Jewellery for initial piercings must be made from materials suitable for medical implantation—such as implant-grade titanium, implant-grade stainless steel, niobium or correctly alloyed solid gold.
Smooth, High-Polish Finish
All jewellery must be free from nicks, scratches, burrs or roughness. A mirror-polished finish reduces the likelihood of irritation and bacterial build-up.
Safe Closure Systems
Internally threaded or threadless jewellery is recommended for fresh piercings to minimise tissue damage during insertion and removal.
Proper Fit
Length, diameter and gauge must match your anatomy and piercing location. Jewellery that is too short or too tight can embed; jewellery that is too loose can migrate or irritate the area.
The APP has introduced theBody Jewellery Verification Program (BJVP) to elevate accountability and transparency within the piercing jewellery industry.
What Is the BJVP
The BJVP is considered the highest standard for ensuring that body jewellery is produced under strict quality controls and safe manufacturing practices. It is a voluntary programme that offers enhanced verification beyond the APP’s minimum standards.
What the Programme Checks
Manufacturers participating in the BJVP must demonstrate:
Traceable batch documentation
Compliance with ASTM and ISO material standards
Ethical agreements and consistent quality controls
Safe and transparent manufacturing processes
BJVP Phases
Phase 1: Titanium and steel
Phase 2: Gold and platinum
Phase 3: Glass (planned)
How This Benefits You
By choosing brands aligned with BJVP principles, we ensure our jewellery is traceable, ethically made and manufactured to the highest standards currently recognised in the industry.
Clean jewellery using mild, unscented soap and warm water
Avoid alcohol or harsh chemicals
Protect gemstone and anodised pieces from abrasive cleaners
Store jewellery separately to prevent scratches
Inspect threadless ends and threaded pieces for wear
Do not change jewellery in a fresh piercing without professional guidance
We’re always available to help you choose the safest and most suitable materials for your piercings.
Association of Professional Piercers. Jewelry for Initial Piercings.
https://safepiercing.org/jewelry-for-initial-piercings/
Association of Professional Piercers. Body Jewelry Verification Program (BJVP).
https://safepiercing.org/body-jewelry-verification-program-2/
