Nose studs are often considered the signifier of a punkish attitude.
Primarily sported by rebellious types, gap year students and art school graduates, the subtle jewels exude a rock ‘n’ roll demeanour within the Western sphere.
The dainty gems date back thousands of years, with their origins rooted in ancient cultures across the globe. In some cultures, nose piercings came to symbolise social ranking, religious beliefs and marital status. In India, for instance, nose piercings represent a coming-of-age, womanhood and tradition. An embellished nose is an object of orthodox beauty.
There are many factors to consider before getting a nose piercing. From aftercare to the design of your chosen stud, there’s much to consider. A reminder that it’s hay fever season - so you may want to wait until winter if you’re prone to allergies.
We spoke to the piercing team at Seol + Gold to help us answer all our nose stud-related questions.
What metals should nose studs be made from?
According to the experts: “Nose studs made from metals that are safe for body jewellery, hypoallergenic and corrosion-resistant are what we always advise. We only use titanium or 14-karat solid gold - hypoallergenic, lightweight, and durable. Ultimately, the best metal for a nose stud depends on your personal preferences, budget, and any metal allergies or sensitivities you may have. It's always a good idea to choose a reputable jewellery retailer and piercer, and opt for high-quality materials to ensure your nose stud is safe and comfortable to wear.”
What should someone avoid when searching for nose studs online?
- Low-quality materials: Be cautious of nose studs made from materials like nickel or brass. These can cause allergic reactions or skin irritations. Look for studs made from high-quality materials like titanium or solid gold, and for healed piercings, sterling silver or 18ct gold vermeil.
- Incorrect sizing: Nose studs come in various sizes, so make sure you know the gauge (thickness) and length that will fit your piercing properly. Avoid studs that are too thick or too long, as they can cause discomfort or even damage your piercing.
- Inadequate designs: Pay attention to the design of the nose studs you're considering. Avoid studs with sharp edges, loose settings, or other flaws that could cause discomfort or pose a risk to your piercing. Opt for well-crafted studs that are designed and marketed specifically for nose piercings.
How long do nose piercings take to heal? What is the aftercare process like?
“Nose piercings can take anywhere between 4-6 months (sometimes more) to be fully healed, with some cases up to a year”, the team reveals. “Although, there are many variables that could contribute to a slightly longer healing time. Being pierced by a reputable piercer with high-quality jewellery and practising proper aftercare will help the healing of your nose piercing go as smoothly as possible.”
The brand always recommends following the below process:
- Cleanliness: Always wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching your piercing.
- Saline solution: Clean your piercing twice a day with saline solution. Soak a clean cotton ball or pad in the saline solution and gently clean around the piercing, removing any crust or discharge.
- Avoid touching: Try to avoid touching or twisting the jewellery unnecessarily. This can introduce bacteria and prolong the healing process.
- Avoid makeup and skincare products: Keep makeup, lotions, and skincare products away from the piercing area, as they can irritate the skin and increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid swimming: Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water during the healing process, as they may contain bacteria that can cause infection.
- Choose the right jewellery: Initially, your piercer will use piercing jewellery made of a hypoallergenic material like titanium, or 14k solid gold. Avoid changing the jewellery during the healing process unless advised by your piercer.
- Watch for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, warmth around the piercing, or unusual discharge. If you suspect an infection, consult your piercer or a healthcare professional promptly.
Discover the best nose studs for a dainty dose of sparkle below.
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Fine Gold Jewellery 14k Solid Gold Starburst Nose Stud
Add a touch of glitter to your everyday jewellery with a 14-karat gold nose stud. These sparkle-shaped studs feature dazzling cubic zirconias and a solid gold structure, which makes them perfect for sensitive skin.
Buy now £44.00, Etsy
Zohreh V. Jewellery Star Nose Stud 9K Gold
Forget being starry-eyed, be starry-nosed with a delicate celestial piece by Zohreh V. Jewellery. The 9-karat gold stud is moulded into a comfortable L-shaped post which ensures a secure fit when worn.
Buy now £34.00, Wolf & Badger
jewellerybox 9ct Yellow Gold L-Shaped 1.5mm Round CZ Crystal Nose Stud Pin
Available in eleven glistening colourways, these nose pins by jewellerybox are ideal for mixing and matching. Choose from aqua, fuschia and amethyst tones and inject some colour into your daily jewellery rotation. Plus, the stud is crafted from sturdy 9-karat gold to stay tarnish-free for longer.
Buy now £12.95, jewellerybox
Claire's 18kt Gold Plated Titanium Cubic Zirconia 20G Nose Stud
A relic of 2010s Britain, Claire’s is home to a fun collection of nose studs. This classic pick boasts a titanium structure clad in 18-karat gold coating. The perfect marriage of glitz and glamour.
Buy now £9.60, Claire's
Laura Bond 9k Solid Yellow Gold Tiny Crystal Gem Nose Stud
Make a statement wherever you go with a solid gold nose stud by Laura Bond. The female-founded business solely uses ethically sourced gold, ensuring your new jewel won’t cause damage to the planet or sensitive skin.
Buy now £35.00, Laura Bond
Lovisa Gold-Plated Titanium Diamante Nose Stud Pack
Diversify your jewellery collection with Lovisa’s glimmering three-pack of pretty nose candy. This golden pack features a variety of designs made from premium titanium, meaning they're gentle on sensitive skin and comfortable for daily wear.
Buy now £13.50, Lovisa
With Bling White Teeny Flower Nose L-Stud
Up for grabs in either a feminine floral silhouette or an electric lightning bolt, With Bling’s titanium nose stud is an adorable addition to your jewellery box. It comes in both gold and silver colourways and centres clear, crystal-like cubic zirconia gems.
Buy now £16.00, With Bling
Trendy Nose Studs 9K Solid Gold Nose Ring
Slip a dainty floral jewel into your nose in time for summer. This feminine stud is handmade from 9-karat gold, making it suitable for freshly healed piercings or noses in need of a simple switch-up.
Buy now £23.90, Etsy
Anita Rani Shakti Diamond Nose Stud
Anita Rani’s Shakti Diamond Nose Stud is a luxurious piece for a lifetime of wear. It features a petite white diamond surrounded by 9-karat solid yellow gold. Ideal for those with sensitive skin, the tiny gem is set to become your signature stud.
Buy now £70.00, Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery
Arya Jewels 22k Solid Gold Indian Nose Stud
A mesmerising blend of gold and cubic zirconia, this ethereal nose stud promises effortless wear with a solid gold structure and an easy-use fastening. A cubic zirconia glitters in the middle of the stud, which comes in an array of styles and shapes.
Buy now £66.00, Etsy
