Ear Piercing Jewelry

The outer ear offers endless ways to make a statement. To build a composition that flows well, it helps to know the names and zones of each piercing. At Obsidian, every single piece is designed to fit these areas perfectly.

• The Lobe (Standard and Transverse): The fleshy area at the bottom of the ear. It's the most common piercing. It's often stacked with several pieces at once — hoops, creole hoops or set studs all work well. The transverse version runs horizontally through the flesh with a bar.
• The Helix: On the upper cartilage fold, the Helix is an ideal spot for a hoop thin hoop or a labret with a decorative top.
• The Tragus: The small cartilage bump in front of the ear canal. We recommend a labret with an internal thread and a discreet top.
• The Conch (Inner and Outer): In the shell-shaped hollow of the ear, this area gives you plenty of surface to work with. You can wear a hoop of 10 to 12 mm or a bolder piece.
• The Daith: The inner cartilage fold just above the ear canal. This spot is often fitted with a hoop or a horseshoe as the very first piece.
• The Rook: The upper fold, just above the Daith. Usually worn with a bar (curved barbell).
• The Snug and Anti-Tragus: Thicker areas (the mid-ear ridge and the zone above the lobe) that call for a bar sized just right.
• The Industrial: A double piercing linked by a single, long bar. A bold look that needs the right anatomy.
• The Flat and Forward Helix: The Flat sits on the flat area at the top of the ear. The Forward Helix is closer to the face, right at the base of the helix.

Choosing the right dimensions is the most technical part of the buying process. The wrong size can lead to irritation and bumps. Check a sizing guide or ask for the advice of a professional.

• Post Thickness (Gauge): For most cartilage piercings (Helix, Tragus, Conch, Rook), the standard is 1.2 mm (16G). For the lower ear, you'll sometimes see 1.0 mm or 1.6 mm.
• Bar Length (Labret):
• Initial jewelry: 8 to 10 mm to allow for swelling.
• Final piece (downsize): 6 to 7 mm once swelling goes down (around 2 months), to limit friction and delay healing.
• Hoop Diameter (guidelines):
• Helix: 8 mm (snug) or 10 mm (looser).
• Conch: 10 to 12 mm.
• Tragus: 6 mm.

This inner piercing: 8 to 10 mm.

Material quality is non-negotiable. Many online shops offer jewelry at low prices made from surgical steel or silver, with real risks attached.

• ASTM F-136 titanium: Biocompatible, nickel-free, lightweight and stable. This is the material we use at Obsidian.
• 316L Surgical Steel: Can release nickel over time and cause irritation and inflammation. Heavier than titanium.
• Sterling Silver (925): Best avoided on a piercing that hasn't healed yet. Oxidizes on contact with fluids and can stain the skin.
• PVD Gold: A color coating applied to titanium under vacuum, for a long-lasting finish.
• 14k and 18k Gold: A premium, nickel-free option with a cost that runs a bit higher.

The healing process isn't just about how things look on the outside — it's about internal consolidation, too.

• Healing Times:
• Lower ear: 2 to 3 months.
• Cartilage: 6 to 12 months.
• Cleaning: sterile saline solution, morning and evening at first, applied with a compress. Dry thoroughly after showering.
• To avoid: sleeping on the area, alcohol/hydrogen peroxide/greasy ointments, and removing the jewelry too soon.

At Obsidian, we sell every piece individually so you can build your own look.

• Internally Threaded Labret: A comfortable base. Swap just the top to switch up the look.
• Threadless (Push-Pin): A secure, easy-to-handle system.
• Hoops and Clickers: Hinged hoops, practical for everyday wear (helix, Daith). Some styles are paved with rhinestones.
• Stones: Cubic zirconia for a sparkly look at an affordable price, or synthetic opal and natural stones.

The price at a piercing studio varies by region, piercer and equipment.

• Piercing fee (in our French studios): typically €30 to €60.
• Initial jewelry: the price is added on top. An ASTM F-136 titanium labret often starts around €10 to €20.
• Buying online: Obsidian offers studio-grade jewelry at competitive prices, with occasional sales. Be wary of very cheap bundles — the quality is often lacking.
• Customer reviews: check reviews to judge comfort and how well the jewelry holds up.

As for shipping, we prepare your orders quickly with tracked delivery options (Standard or Express), and we offer free delivery on orders over €160, so you can receive your piercing jewelry with total peace of mind.

Even with quality jewelry, complications can happen if aftercare isn't done properly.

• Bump / Overgrowth: Usually caused by irritation (jewelry that's too long, a hoop put in too soon, friction, sleeping on it). Solution: Switch back to a straight bar made from ASTM F-136 titanium and reduce anything that irritates it.
• Infection: Red, warm, swollen and painful area, with discharge. Solution: Don't remove the jewelry — see a healthcare professional or your piercer right away.
• Material Reaction: Itching or clear discharge can point to a nickel sensitivity. Switch to ASTM F-136 titanium.

In short, choosing Obsidian means choosing both safety and style. Whether you're after a simple single piece for the lower ear or a more elaborate look for the cartilage, our ASTM F-136 titanium and gold jewelry is built to last.