The FAQs

Each piece is custom-fit and secured with a tiny jump ring that we weld closed using something called Pule Arc Welding- sounds fancy, but it’s actually pretty simple!

It works by sending a quick burst of energy through a tungsten electrode tip to create a tiny arc of heat. That heat melts the metal just enough to fuse it together into a strong, seamless bond - no flames, just a small burst of light and a tiny spark.

It’s quick, safe, and leaves you with a beautiful piece made to last.

Literally anyone (7+) can wear Headed West Permanent Jewelry! We strongly believe everyBODY deserves quality jewelry at an accessible price that;

• Makes you look and feel your authentic self

• Represents your unique identity

• Leaves you with a memorable experience

We require all Permanent Jewelry clients, regardless of age, to sign our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form prior to their appointment.

If you are a minor, between the ages of 7 and 17, you will need a parent or legal guardian present at the time of welding to fill out our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form.

Not ready to let your littles commit to something permanent?

No worries, we can add a clasp to any of our permanent chains to make them removable.

*We DO NOT weld on children under 7.

We want your Headed West experience to feel personalized, memorable, and most importantly fun!

Start By Selecting Your Chain- Easily the hardest part of your appointment is deciding which one(s) to get!

Next, Select Your Jewelry Style- We custom fit permanent necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and rings.

A Quick Sidebar for Housekeeping- Sign Our Appointment Consent Form (Online or scan our QR Code In-Person)

Confirm Your Fit + Get Welded- We ensure you love the look and feel of your chain before delicately hand-welding your jewelry.

Thank you for choosing Headed West! We’re so happy you love your new permanent jewelry. One of the best things about it? It’s super low maintenance! But to keep it looking beautiful, here are a few care tips:

💧 Cleaning Tips:

* Use a soft toothbrush with a little mild soap and gently scrub your jewelry, then rinse with warm water. 

* For a quick shine, a jewelry polishing cloth works great too!

🔒 Keep Your Jewelry Safe:

We use high-quality 14k gold, sterling silver, and gold-filled chains, but like anything you wear every day, some wear and tear is totally normal.

To help your jewelry last, we recommend avoiding:

* Harsh chemicals (like cleaning products, perfumes, or chlorine) 

* Lotions and body care products 

* Activities that might pull, stretch, or snag your chain

Everyone’s skin chemistry is different, and exposure to various products or elements may affect your jewelry over time. A little extra care goes a long way!

🏥 Medical Situations

Need to remove your jewelry for a medical reason (like an MRI, pacemaker, surgery, or pregnancy)?

Please ask medical staff (if possible) to cut the jump ring—not the chain. We can usually re-weld it for you! Depending on the condition of your chain, a small fee may apply.

If the chain can’t be saved, don’t worry—reach out and we’ll talk about your options.

❗A Few Final Notes:

We are not responsible for lost or mishandled pieces, breakage, allergic reactions, or skin irritation. We cannot guarantee marketing claims like “hypoallergenic,” “won’t tarnish,” or “pure gold”—everyone’s skin and lifestyle are different! The best way to protect your jewelry is to follow all care instructions and avoid exposure to harsh conditions or materials.

💬 Got Questions?

We’re here to help!

Reach out any time, and if you have medical concerns, we always recommend checking in with your doctor or dermatologist too.

Thanks again for supporting Headed West—we’re honored to be a part of your story. 🌟

We require all of our Permanent Jewelry clients to sign our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form as understanding and agreement of our welding process and policies. We want to ensure you are comfortable and answer any questions you might have.

If you are a minor, between the ages of 13 and 17, you will need a parent or legal guardian present to fill out our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form.

Review and sign our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form prior to your appointment.

Forgot to fill out our online Consent Form ahead of time? No problem, scan our QR code in person.

Good news—your Headed West permanent jewelry is TSA-friendly!

You can wear your welded pieces through airport security without any issues. Our high-quality chains made of 14k gold, sterling silver, or gold-filled materials typically won’t set off metal detectors, and you won’t need to remove them while going through screening.

A few travel tips:

* Keep your jewelry clean and dry, especially when flying to humid or tropical destinations. 

* Be mindful of sunscreen, saltwater, and chlorine—they can affect the finish over time. 

* If you’re traveling for a medical procedure that requires jewelry removal (like an MRI), refer to the Medical Disclaimer section above for re-weld options.

So go ahead—jet set in style. Your jewelry is ready for the adventure. 🌍✨

You might be asking yourself, how do I know which necklace length is right for me?

This guide will help you understand where each of our lengths sit on the body.

Choker = 14”-16”: These lengths fit snugly around the neck, often hitting just above the collarbone.

Princess = 18”: This is a classic length that rests comfortably on the collarbone, making it versatile and suitable for various necklines.

• Please note, we do not offer any length shorter than 14” or any length longer than 18”. These lengths are not recommended for Permanent Jewelry.

14K Solid Yellow Gold is a high-quality gold alloy composed of 58.3%pure gold and 41.7% other metals, typically a mix of copper and silver.

This blend enhances its strength and durability while maintaining the rich, warm appearance of yellow gold. Unlike 24K Gold, which is pure but very soft and prone to scratches, 14K gold is significantly more resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for everyday jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces.

SKIN SENSITIVITY & TARNISHING:

One of the benefits of 14K yellow gold is its hypoallergenic properties. Since it contains a lower percentage of alloys like nickel (a common irritant found in white gold), it's generally well-tolerated by those with sensitive skin. However, individuals with extreme metal allergies should confirm the exact alloy composition to ensure no irritation occurs. Unlike lower-karat gold alloys (such as 10K), 14K yellow gold resists tarnishing better, though it can still develop a slight patina over time, especially if exposed to lotions, perfumes, or harsh chemicals. Regular gentle cleaning with warm water and mild soap can help maintain its shine.

Why Choose 14K Yellow Gold?:

• Balanced purity & durability: More durable than 18K or 24K gold while still maintaining a rich gold color.Ideal for daily wear: Resistant to scratches, making it a practical choice for permanent jewelry.

• Low risk of skin irritation: A great option for sensitive skin compared to nickel-heavy alloys.

• Classic & Timeless Appearance: Retains its warm, golden hue without the need for frequent polishing.

Overall, 14K solid yellow gold is a long-lasting, skin-friendly, and durable choice.

What is 14K Gold-Filled?:

14K gold-filled jewelry is a high-quality and durable alternative to solid gold. It consists of a thick layer of 14-karat gold that is heat-and pressure-bonded to a core metal, usually jeweler's brass. Unlike gold plating, which has a very thin layer of gold that can wear off quickly, gold-filled jewelry contains 100 times more gold by weight, making it significantly more long-lasting.

How Long Does 14K Gold-Filled Jewelry Last?:

With proper care, 14K gold-filled jewelry can last 10 to 30 years or even longer. Because the gold layer is thick and permanently bonded, it does not flake, chip, or rub off like gold-plated jewelry. It can withstand daily wear, exposure to water, and even some friction without losing its appearance. However, harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, and improper storage can accelerate tarnishing or wear over time.

Is 14K Gold-Filled Safe for Sensitive Skin?

Yes! 14K gold-filled jewelry is hypoallergenic for most people, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Since the outer layer is solid 14K gold, it does not cause irritation for individuals who can wear solid gold. However, people with extreme metal sensitivities (such as reactions to even small amounts of copper or brass) should test it before prolonged wear.

Does 14K Gold-Filled Tarnish?

Gold itself does not tarnish, but the small amount of other metals in 14K gold (such as copper) can react with oxygen, sweat, or chemicals over time. While gold-filled jewelry is much more resistant to tarnishing than gold-plated or base metal jewelry, it can darken slightly in extreme conditions, such as high humidity or exposure to harsh chemicals like chlorine or sulfur. Regular gentle cleaning helps maintain its shine.

Why Choose 14K Gold-Filled?

14K gold-filled jewelry offers the beauty and luxury of solid gold at a lower price, while still being far more durable and long-lasting than gold-plated options. It is an excellent choice for everyday wear, permanent jewelry, and those seeking high-quality, skin-friendly pieces without the cost of solid gold.

.925 sterling silver is a high-quality silver alloy commonly used in jewelry and fine accessories. The ".925" stamp indicates that the metal is composed of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically consisting of copper or other metals. This alloying process strengthens the silver, as pure silver (99.9%) is too soft for durable wear.

Durability & Longevity:

Sterling Silver is known for its long-lasting nature, especially when properly cared for. With regular wear and maintenance, sterling silver jewelry can last a lifetime or even generations. However, because of its copper content, Sterling Silver is prone to tarnishing over time when exposed to air, moisture, and sulfur-containing substances. Fortunately, tarnish can be easily removed with silver polish or a soft cloth, and wearing your jewelry regularly can actually help keep it shiny, as natural oils on the skin slow down the oxidation process. This makes Sterling Silver an excellent choice for permanent jewelry.

Is Sterling Silver A Skin Irritant?:

Sterling Silver is hypoallergenic for most people, especially when compared to lower-quality metals like nickel or brass.

Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Yes, Sterling Silver naturally tarnishes due to exposure to oxygen, humidity, and chemicals like perfumes or lotions. Tarnishing results in a dark or yellowish layer on the surface, however this does not mean the silver is damaged. Regular wear and cleaning with a jewelry polishing cloth can help maintain and restore its shine.