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Frequently Asked Questions: Permanent Jewelry, Piercing and Orders
Quick answers about permanent jewelry, ear piercing, booking and shipping at BURDLIFE. Contact us.
Permanent jewelry
What is permanent jewelry?
Permanent jewelry is a bracelet, anklet, necklace or ring that is custom-fitted to your body and welded on without a clasp. We use a quick micro-welding technique to join the ends of the chain, so it stays on all day and night. You can still remove it any time by cutting the chain with scissors.
Does getting permanent jewelry hurt?
No. The welding is painless. The micro-welder makes a quick flash of light, and it never touches your skin because a small leather pad sits between the welder and your wrist. The visit takes about 10 to 15 minutes from choosing your chain to welding.
How much does permanent jewelry cost?
The welding is free. You pay for the jewelry. Chain prices vary by style, so see the chains in studio.
Can I shower and swim with permanent jewelry?
Yes. It is made for everyday wear, so it stays on in the shower and when you swim. After a pool or the ocean, rinse it with fresh water and pat it dry. Keep harsh soaps and cleaning products away to keep the shine.
How long does permanent jewelry last?
With proper care it can last for years. How long depends on your lifestyle, the chain style and how you care for it. Daintier chains can snag more easily, so we help you pick the right style for your day.
What if I need to remove it for an MRI or surgery?
Cut the chain at the welded link with household scissors or nail clippers. Save both pieces and bring them back to BURDLIFE. We re-weld for free after a medical removal, as long as it is BURDLIFE jewelry and you have the chain and charms.
Will permanent jewelry set off airport security?
No. It is delicate fine jewelry and does not trigger metal detectors.
Can I add charms?
Yes. We have birthstones, initials, hearts, stars and more. Charms cost extra and are added at the time of welding. Some charms are welded on and others clip on.
What happens if my permanent jewelry breaks?
Save the pieces and bring them to a BURDLIFE studio. We re-weld BURDLIFE jewelry for free if it breaks. We re-weld BURDLIFE jewelry only. We cannot replace lost chains, so keep your jewelry safe if it comes off.
What is the difference between gold filled and gold plated?
18K gold filled jewelry has a thick layer of gold permanently bonded to a base metal, which makes it durable for everyday wear. It holds far more gold than plating, so it lasts much longer.
Piercing
How much is ear piercing?
Ear piercing is $30 per ear. Jewelry is priced separately. On free piercing Wednesdays the piercing is free and you pay for the jewelry.
How do I take care of a new ear piercing?
Clean twice a day, front and back, with saline spray only. Let it air dry and do not twist the jewelry. Read the full steps on our piercing aftercare page.
How long does an ear piercing take to heal?
Lobes: keep your original earrings in for 6 months before changing. Cartilage: keep your flatback in for 1 year before changing. Everyone heals differently, so give your body extra time if you need it.
What is a post swap, and when do I need one?
A new piercing starts with a longer post. The extra length leaves room for swelling in the first weeks. When the swelling goes down, a long post can catch on hair and clothes and move around, which slows healing. A post swap changes it to a shorter post that fits your ear.
For cartilage, come in 6 to 8 weeks after your piercing, if it is healing well with no swelling or soreness. The swap is $25 and takes a few minutes in studio. Do not change the post yourself. If it is still swollen or sore, wait and we will check it for you.
Is there a free piercing day?
Yes. Free piercing Wednesdays at all studios. The piercing is free. You pay for the jewelry, and each piece is priced on its own.
When should I see a doctor about a piercing?
See a doctor if you notice spreading redness, heat around the piercing, fever or pus.
Can I get pierced if I am under 18?
Yes. Anyone under 18 must come with a parent or guardian who brings ID.
Booking and deposits
Do I need an appointment for ear piercing?
No. You can book online with a $15 deposit, or you can walk in. The deposit goes toward your service. Book on our booking page.
How do I book a piercing?
Choose your studio, service and time on our booking page. A $15 deposit holds your time.
How much is the booking deposit?
The deposit is $15 and goes toward the cost of your service.
Can I reschedule?
Yes. Your $15 deposit holds your spot and goes toward your service. You can reschedule for free up to 24 hours before your appointment. If you do not show up, you lose the deposit.
Do I need an appointment for permanent jewelry?
Appointments are recommended to keep your wait short. Walk-ins are welcome at our Houston, Nashville and San Antonio studios. For groups of 3 or more, please book so we can fit everyone.
Where are your studios and what are your hours?
Houston: 600 N Shepherd Dr Ste 198, Houston, TX 77007. Sun to Thu 11am to 6pm, Fri and Sat 11am to 7pm.
Nashville: 2212 12th Ave S Ste 114, Nashville, TN 37204. Daily 10am to 6pm.
San Antonio: 15900 La Cantera Pkwy Ste 6695, San Antonio, TX 78256. Daily 11am to 6pm.
All three are open. Atlanta (4135 Medley Blvd, Johns Creek, GA 30097) opens Monday, November 16, 2026.
Orders and shipping
How much is shipping?
Free US shipping over $75. $5.75 under $75. 2-Day $12. See our shipping policy.
How can I track my order?
We email shipping and tracking details when your order ships. If you have an account, sign in and open your orders to see the status.
What is your return policy?
Return unworn, unwashed, undamaged items with tags within 7 days for a refund, or within 60 days for an exchange. You pay return and exchange shipping. Shipping charges are not refundable. Flatbacks, solid gold, permanent jewelry and piercings are final sale. Items marked final sale can’t be returned. To start a return, email myorder@burdlife.com. See our refund policy.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay and PayPal, plus BURDLIFE gift cards.
Still have a question?
Studios: Houston, Nashville and San Antonio (open). Atlanta (opening soon). Piercing aftercare