Are welded bracelets the Gen Z friendship band? Permanent jewellery is a TikTok hit, saying ‘forever’ in laser-sealed silver and gold – classier than a tattoo, and easier to remove, too
Few pieces add such a timeless edge to everyday jewellery as a welded bracelet. These stand-alone pieces – sometimes known as permanent jewellery – come as ultra-slim chains, usually in silver or gold, and are available in a variety of finishes, styles and thicknesses, fastened onto your body in-store using a laser that links the chain into a seamless single strand. As such, welded jewels have no clasp, and thus cannot be taken off – unless cut with scissors.
High jewellery in 2024: the trends, products and predictions you should know
The trend began with Atelier VM in 2014, when the Italian brand launched the first welded bracelet, sparking a worldwide phenomenon – and a hashtag amassing over 2 billion views on TikTok. Its L’Essenziale line includes welded bracelets, anklets and necklaces, all in 18k yellow, white, rose or champagne gold.
At the UK-based label Morgan & French, founder Lisa Morgan makes permanent bracelets or anklets, crafted from 9k gold and sterling silver and strung with dainty gemstone charms. “We’ve observed a pronounced uptick in attention driven towards welded jewellery, especially among younger, social media-savvy consumers,” says Morgan, after a huge surge of Gen Z consumers driven by TikTok.
“This trend harmonises exceptionally well with the growing appetite for genuine, enduring relationships in an era increasingly dominated by digital interactions.”
Cuffing season: high jewellery artists make bold statements with diamond cuffs
In London, Astrid & Miyu’s welded bracelets welcome further customisation with the addition of colourful birthstones, Zodiacs or initial charms. The brand, founded in 2012 by Seoul-born designer Connie Nam, also offers welded rings in solid gold that can be made to measure in their London and New York stores for those looking to join the permanent trend via a different route.
“The appeal of welded jewellery is its permanence, symbolic of our most treasured friendships,” says Morgan.
- Italian brand Atelier VM launched its first welded bracelet in 2014 and created the popular L’Essenziale line – sparking a hashtag that has amassed over 2 billion views on TikTok
- UK label Morgan & French channels Y2K with bracelets or anklets strung with charms, while pieces from Astrid & Miyu, founded in 2012 by Seoul-born designer Connie Nam, can be similarly customised