Titanium or gold? It's one of the most common questions we get. The honest answer: you don't have to choose just one. Titanium is the hero of the healing phase, gold is the forever crush. Here's how they work together.
Why titanium is the go-to for healing
1. Skin-friendly and nickel-free
We use implant-grade titanium. It contains no nickel, which makes it a great choice for fresh piercings and for anyone with sensitive skin or metal sensitivities.
2. Super light and comfy
Titanium is light, so it puts less weight and stress on your new piercing. Comfort matters when your piercing is still settling in.
3. Strong and corrosion-resistant
Titanium is very strong and resistant to corrosion. It doesn't rust, doesn't tarnish and stays stable, which is exactly what you want during healing.
Compared with surgical steel, titanium is lighter, contains no nickel and typically heals better. Read more in our FAQ on jewellery and materials.
So why do so many people end up choosing gold?
1. That luxe look
Gold radiates elegance, class and style. Plenty of people choose gold simply because it looks stunning and feels a little bit luxurious.
2. Timeless and personal
A gold piercing often feels more special and personal. It's a piece you can wear for years, and even pass on as a treasured heirloom.
3. Made for the long run
Gold keeps its shine and stays beautiful. It gives you a lasting feeling of style and confidence.
The best of both: titanium and gold together
For a fresh piercing titanium is best, but gold is possible too: we usually use a titanium bar with a gold attachment, because the first bar is longer and is later replaced with a shorter one. That way you get the comfort of titanium inside the piercing and the glow of gold on the outside. Our gold is solid 14K and 18K gold (most in 18K).
Fun fact: our gold pieces are made with a titanium internal thread, because a gold thread wears out quickly and titanium keeps it strong. You don't see it when you wear it, but it gives a secure closure.
Tips for switching to gold
- Let us do the changing. Gold is softer than titanium, and the higher the karat, the softer it is. Letting a professional do the change protects both your piercing and your jewellery. Never take your piercing out yourself while it's healing.
- Choose solid gold. Gold-plated jewellery is not the same as solid 14K or 18K gold.
- Check the size. Thickness and length have to match your piercing. See All about sizes.
- Keep it clean. Also keep your gold piercing clean regularly with mild care products, such as AphraHeals spray. For a new piercing, see our aftercare instructions.
Why choose gold at Piercings Works
- Expert advice to help you pick the perfect gold piece.
- High-quality solid gold jewellery for comfort and style.
- Help with the switch from titanium to gold.
Ready for the best of both worlds? Start with titanium, add a touch of gold, and shine.
Between 12 and 16? Then a parent or guardian comes along and signs the consent form, and you both bring ID. From 16 you can come on your own, with your own ID. More on our minimum age page. For costs, check our studio price list.
Piercings Works has been piercing in Amsterdam since 1998, and has been on the Reguliersbreestraat since 2004. We have more than 2,000 reviews and our team speaks six languages: Dutch, English, Spanish, Italian, Croatian and Indonesian. Piercings Works: where healing starts with titanium and your style shines with gold.