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What is permament jewellery? The rise of the sentimental accessory

By MiNDFOOD

Choosing the chain and measuring for the perfect custom fit before securing. Photo / SOPHIE forEVER
Choosing the chain and measuring for the perfect custom fit before securing. Photo / SOPHIE forEVER
A lasting piece of jewelllery you don't need to take off, is proving incredibly popular.

Trends in fashion come and go at lightening speed, but a bid to transcend these whims and seek out pieces that are more meaningful and lasting, permanent jewellery has found the spotlight.

Permanent jewellery is a piece, typically a bracelet, anklet, or necklace that does not have a traditional clasp. Instead, the ends of each piece are securely and safely welded together while you’re wearing them, creating a seamless look and a piece that cannot be easily removed.

The approach is usually used with fine, delicate chains that feel comfortable and weightless to wear constantly.

A sentimental option that also makes accessorising a breeze, the approach is swiftly gaining popularity for marking a milestone. Gathering to get one together has become a popular occasion for friends or family marking a birthday, breakup or other significant occasion, or just for fun. It’s even been said the idea is the modern version of the old ‘best friends’ necklace or beaded friendship bracelet.

Permanently joining the chain. Photo / SOPHIE forEVER

The low maintenance approach lasts well and provided it is treated with care, will endure workouts, showers, swimming and temperature changes. If it does need to be removed for medical reasons, the joining link can be cut through.

The approach is becoming increasingly popular around the world and there are a small number of providers in New Zealand and Australia, like Infinity Jewellery in Christchurch and Sarah & Sebastian, that has a number of locations including in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

In Auckland, local brand SOPHIE is becoming sought-out for its elegant ForEVER permanent jewellery service, offering a chic selection of sterling silver, 14kt gold fill or 9kt solid gold chains to choose from.  There are fine understated chains to more obvious, but classic, figaro chains on offer.

While booking in to receive a piece of your own in the brand’s Auckland studio in St Johns is necessary, the brand is recognising the appeal of the approach for an occasion by offering a mobile service too, able to attend special occasions and events such as bridal or baby showers and birthdays. Forget a place setting or goodie bag, we love the idea of offering a unique and memorable element for guests!

Why choose permanent jewellery?

We spoke to SOPHIE founder Belinda Cannon about why permanent jewellery is so special:

What do you think is so appealing about a permanent piece of jewellery? 

Permanent jewellery can hold a deep emotional value. The idea of something that stays with you, unbroken and continuous, creates a special connection. Whether it’s a reminder of a cherished memory, a bond with a loved one, or a symbol of personal strength, it becomes part of your everyday life. There’s something quite wonderful about knowing that memory is always there with you.

Photo / SOPHIE forEVER

What is the name of the process that joins the links? 

The process is called micro-welding or soldering. It’s a delicate method of joining the links without a traditional clasp, ensuring the jewellery stays securely in place. We take great care in this process to ensure it’s strong and seamless.

How long do they last?

How long your piece lasts depends on your lifestyle, but for most, it will stay intact until you choose to remove it and we do offer a re-weld service. While the bonds created during the micro-welding process are strong, it’s still important to treat the piece gently, especially with activities that involve heavy impact. 

What are some of the most popular chain styles?

Some of our most popular styles include the delicate cable chain, the sleek and minimalistic link chain, and the slightly bolder rolo chain. I also love the addition of pendants or pearls.

Our permanent jewellery is incredibly versatile—whether worn solo or stacked with other bracelets or watches. The simplicity of the chains allows them to complement any style—from casual to more polished.

Measuring the chain to get the right fit. Photo / SOPHIE forEVER

What kinds of occasions that people have chosen to mark with a permanent piece?

We’ve seen people mark some truly meaningful moments with a permanent piece—friends bonding over shared jewellery before they move to different cities, couples marking anniversaries or milestones in their relationship, and even mothers and daughters creating a forever bond with matching pieces.

One particularly touching occasion was a daughter who surprised her Mum with a piece for Mother’s Day. Her Mum wore a bracelet passed on from her own Mum and one from her husband’s Mum. She chose a 9kt gold mini link chain with a little lock charm to wear with her other two pieces as a symbolic piece for her daughters. The mixing of old and new memories was so special. It really is an honour to be a part of these stories.

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