Internally Threaded vs Externally Threaded Jewellery: What's the Difference?

Walk into any reputable piercing studio in New Zealand and ask about externally threaded jewellery. The reaction will tell you everything you need to know.

What is external threading?

Externally threaded jewellery has the screw thread on the outside of the post, the same part that passes through your piercing when you put it in or take it out. Those threads are rough, with raised edges that drag across the inside of the piercing channel every single time you change your jewellery.

On a healed piercing that's annoying. On a healing piercing it causes micro-tears in the tissue, introduces bacteria, and can significantly slow healing or trigger irritation.

What is internal threading?

With internally threaded jewellery the thread is on the inside of the post. The end or top screws into a smooth hollow shaft, so when you insert the jewellery you're passing a smooth surface through the piercing. No rough edges, no dragging.

It's a small design difference that makes a significant practical difference, especially in the first few months of healing.

What is threadless jewellery?

Threadless jewellery takes it a step further. There's no threading at all. The decorative end has a small pin that bends slightly and inserts into the post, where it's held in place by tension. To open it you simply push the two pieces together and pull apart with a slight twist.

Threadless systems are popular for delicate placements and cartilage piercings where fiddling with a screw end is impractical.

Why do cheap jewellery brands use external threading?

It's cheaper and faster to manufacture. That's the only reason. It's not better for the wearer in any way.

What we stock at Staple

Everything we sell is internally threaded or threadless. We don't stock externally threaded jewellery and we never will. If you see external threading on a piece of jewellery, that's a sign to keep looking.