Not All Titanium Is Created Equal: The Truth About Titanium Jewelry for Body Piercings
- Hayl
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
When it comes to body jewelry, titanium is often marketed as the gold standard — and in many ways, it is. It's lightweight, strong, corrosion-resistant, and most importantly, biocompatible, making it an excellent option for new and healed piercings. But here’s the catch: not all titanium jewelry is created equal.
All too often, I see shops advertise their jewelry as “titanium” - when the word alone doesn’t mean it’s of quality. It sounds good on paper, from a marketing standpoint, sure. These shops will buy cheap posts, cheap tops, to cut corners and save expenses on their end - all to overprice it on yours. And you buy this overpriced, low-quality jewelry because? “Oh, It’s titanium.” 😐
But, just because a piece is labeled “titanium” doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe for your body — or even good quality. Let’s break down what sets quality titanium jewelry apart from the rest, and what you should look for before letting anything go through your skin.
What Is Titanium, Really?
Titanium is a metallic element (symbol *Ti*) known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. In the body jewelry world, it's prized for being “hypoallergenic,” which means it doesn’t irritate sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions like nickel-containing metals often do.
But here’s the important bit: there are different grades and types of titanium, and only a few are actually suitable — and safe — for body piercings.
The Gold Standard: Implant-Grade Titanium (ASTM F-136 & F-1295)
The highest quality titanium used in professional body jewelry is known as “implant-grade titanium.” This is the same material used in medical implants like joint replacements and surgical pins. It comes in two commonly used standards:
- ASTM F-136: This is a specification for titanium alloy (typically 6AL-4V ELI), used widely in the body piercing industry.
- ASTM F-1295: This covers commercially pure titanium, which is another safe option for piercings. Vanadium-free.
G23 Titanium, otherwise known as ASTM B-348 GR23, is not an implant-grade metal, and is not a safe substitute for ASTM F-136. G23 Titanium has only been designated for use in commercial, industrial and engineering purposes. In other words, this Titanium grade belongs in aeroplanes and space ships – Not the human body! (Source)
Jewelry made from these grades should be polished to a mirror finish to reduce surface porosity (tiny holes that can harbor bacteria) and ensure safety during healing. This is the quality you’ll find in jewelry from professional, reputable piercing studios and manufacturers.
BUT, WAIT!
THIS ALSO MEANS: even if a piece is ASTM F-136 certified titanium - if its surface isn’t MIRROR-POLISHED - it’s not safe, either!
The surfaces and ends of body jewelry must be free of nicks, scratches, burrs, and polishing compounds. Suitable pieces have no irregular surfaces that could endanger the delicate healing tissue of a fresh piercing. Metal body jewelry should be polished to a smooth, mirror finish. If you wear jewelry that has a porous or uneven surface, the new cells that form during healing grow into the irregularities. Then, when the jewelry shifts or moves, these areas tear. As this cycle is repeated, scar tissue forms and healing is delayed. A faulty finish can also introduce bacteria into the wound and cause infection. (Source)
The Red Flags: Mystery Titanium & Poor Quality Control
Here’s where it gets sketchy. Many online retailers and less-reputable shops advertise “titanium jewelry” without specifying the grade or standard. Sometimes it’s simply “commercial titanium,” which may include impurities or inconsistent alloys that aren't safe for long-term wear, especially in fresh piercings.
Worse, some jewelry may only be “titanium-coated” — meaning it’s a cheap base metal like steel or even brass, just covered in a thin layer of titanium. That coating can wear off, exposing your piercing to allergens or corrosion.
If the jewelry isn’t labeled as ASTM F-136 or F-1295, or if the seller can’t (or won’t) tell you what grade it is, it’s a gamble — and your body is the one paying the price.
How to Tell If You’re Getting the Good Stuff
Here are a few things to look for when shopping for titanium body jewelry:
- Ask for Verified Mill certifications: Reputable manufacturers will disclose the material grade. Look for ASTM F-136 or F-1295 certification.
- Buy from professional piercing studios or trusted retailers: They work with vetted jewelry brands that meet industry standards.
- Avoid vague listings: If the listing only says “titanium” without a grade or doesn’t provide details, it’s best to skip it.
- Look for mirror-polished finishes: High-quality titanium jewelry should be smooth, bright, and free of rough edges or seams. You should be able to see your reflection clearly in the jewelry! Why does a good finish matter? These are the parts of the jewelry that are coming into contact with your skin and body. Just because you may not always be able to see imperfections with the naked eye doesn’t mean they will not cause irritation and issues on a microscopic level.
Bottom Line
Titanium is a great choice for body piercings — but only if it’s the right type. The term “titanium” alone doesn’t guarantee safety or quality. Always look for “implant-grade titanium,” specifically ASTM F-136 or F-1295, to ensure your piercing heals properly and stays healthy long-term.
When it comes to your body, don’t price shop and settle for less. A few extra dollars spent on verified, high-quality jewelry is worth every cent compared to the pain and problems cheap materials can cause.
Quality jewelry is an investment.
Buy pieces that will last you the rest of your life.
Want help spotting quality titanium jewelry or finding a trusted brand? Drop a comment or reach out — I’m here to keep your piercings safe, stylish, and stress-free.
xoxo Hayl
Comparative photos taken from Lynn Loheid’s YT video “Reviewing Invictus Body Jewelry” which you may view here:
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