Types of Barbell Earrings

Barbell earrings are a popular type of body jewelry, known for their versatility and modern aesthetic. These earrings, inspired by the design of a barbell used in weightlifting, consist of a straight or curved bar with beads, balls, or other decorative elements screwed onto each end. Barbell earrings are used in various piercings across the body, including ears, tongues, and other areas. Their simple yet functional design makes them a favorite among both first-time piercees and seasoned body modification enthusiasts.

Straight Barbells

Classic Straight Barbells

The classic straight barbell is the most common type of barbell earring. It features a straight bar with two removable balls or decorative ends on either side. These are widely used in a variety of piercings, including tongue, nipple, and industrial piercings.

Materials

Classic straight barbells are typically made from surgical steel, titanium, or gold. These materials are preferred due to their hypoallergenic properties and durability.

Sizes and Gauges

Straight barbells come in various lengths and gauges to accommodate different piercings and preferences. The gauge refers to the thickness of the bar, with common sizes ranging from 18G (1.0mm) to 14G (1.6mm).

Uses

• Tongue Piercings: Often used in tongue piercings due to their smooth, straight design.
• Nipple Piercings: The straight barbell’s versatility and comfort make it a popular choice for nipple piercings.
• Industrial Piercings: Commonly used in industrial ear piercings, where a straight barbell connects two separate piercings on the ear.

Internally Threaded Straight Barbells

Internally threaded barbells have threads on the inside of the bar rather than on the ends. This design is gentler on the skin during insertion and removal, reducing the risk of irritation and injury.

Advantages

• Less Trauma: Internally threaded barbells cause less damage to the piercing during jewelry changes.
• Safer for New Piercings: Ideal for new piercings, where minimizing irritation is crucial.

Popular Styles

• Gemstone Ends: Internally threaded barbells often feature gemstone ends for added elegance.
• Custom Ends: Many brands offer customizable ends, allowing for a personalized touch.

Curved Barbells

Classic Curved Barbells

Curved barbells, also known as banana barbells due to their slight curve, are another popular type of barbell earring. The curved design makes them suitable for a variety of piercings where a straight barbell might not be comfortable or aesthetically pleasing.

Uses

• Eyebrow Piercings: The curved barbell is commonly used in eyebrow piercings for a natural, contoured look.
• Rook Piercings: Often used in rook piercings, a type of ear cartilage piercing.
• Navel Piercings: Curved barbells are frequently used in navel piercings, offering both comfort and style.

Materials

Like straight barbells, curved barbells are available in a range of materials, including surgical steel, titanium, gold, and bioplast.

Spiral Barbells

Spiral barbells are a variation of the curved barbell, featuring a more pronounced twist or spiral shape. This unique design adds a distinctive flair to piercings.

Design and Aesthetics

• Twist: The spiral design creates a visually appealing effect, adding movement and dimension to the piercing.
• Customization: Spiral barbells can be customized with various ends, such as spikes, beads, or gems.

Uses

• Helix Piercings: Often used in helix or cartilage piercings, where the spiral design can be fully appreciated.
• Lobe Piercings: Also popular in lobe piercings for those looking to make a bold statement.

Circular Barbells

Horseshoe Barbells

Circular barbells, commonly referred to as horseshoe barbells due to their shape, are a versatile type of barbell earring. The circular design makes them suitable for a wide range of piercings.

Design Characteristics

• Semi-Circular Shape: The semi-circular shape allows for easy insertion and removal.
• Ball Ends: Typically feature ball ends, but spikes, gems, or other decorative ends are also common.

Uses

• Septum Piercings: Circular barbells are frequently used in septum piercings, where the horseshoe shape complements the anatomy of the nose.
• Ear Piercings: Suitable for a variety of ear piercings, including daith, rook, and helix piercings.
• Lip Piercings: Also used in lip piercings, particularly in labret and snake bite piercings.

Captive Bead Rings (CBRs)

Captive bead rings are a type of circular barbell where a single bead or ball is held in place by the tension of the ring. This design is simple yet effective, allowing for secure placement of the jewelry.

Design and Functionality

• Bead Placement: The bead or decorative element is held in place by the pressure of the ring, making it both secure and stylish.
• Variety of Ends: Beads can be plain or adorned with gems, patterns, or other designs.

Uses

• Ear Cartilage Piercings: Popular in ear cartilage piercings such as the helix or tragus.
• Nose Piercings: Commonly used in nostril piercings for a classic and subtle look.
• Genital Piercings: Also used in various genital piercings due to their secure and comfortable design.

Specialty Barbells

Industrial Barbells

Industrial barbells are specifically designed for industrial piercings, where a single barbell connects two piercings, typically across the upper ear cartilage.

Design Features

• Extended Length: Industrial barbells are longer than standard barbells to accommodate the distance between the two piercings.
• Decorative Elements: Many industrial barbells feature decorative elements such as arrows, hearts, or gemstones along the bar.

Materials and Sizes

• Surgical Steel and Titanium: These materials are preferred for their durability and hypoallergenic properties.
• Custom Sizes: Available in custom lengths to fit the unique anatomy of the wearer.

Popular Styles

• Geometric Shapes: Industrial barbells often feature geometric shapes for a modern look.
• Colorful Coatings: Anodized or coated metals offer a variety of color options for a personalized touch.

Surface Barbells

Surface barbells are designed for surface piercings, where the piercing does not go through a fold of skin but rather sits on a flat surface.

Design and Functionality

• Flat Design: Surface barbells have a flat, rectangular shape to minimize the risk of rejection or migration.
• Curved Ends: The ends of the barbell are slightly curved to accommodate the natural movement of the skin.

Uses

• Nape Piercings: Commonly used in nape piercings on the back of the neck.
• Hip Piercings: Also used in hip piercings, where the flat design reduces pressure on the skin.
• Chest Piercings: Surface barbells are ideal for chest piercings, offering both comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Industrial Chain Barbells

Industrial chain barbells are a unique variation of the industrial barbell, featuring a chain that connects the two ends of the barbell.

Design and Aesthetics

• Chain Link: The chain adds a decorative element, creating a dynamic and edgy look.
• Variety of Styles: Chains can be delicate and subtle or bold and chunky, depending on personal preference.

Uses

• Ear Piercings: Often used in ear piercings where the chain can drape elegantly across the ear.
• Statement Piercings: Ideal for those looking to make a bold fashion statement with their piercings.

Decorative and Themed Barbells

Gemstone Barbells

Gemstone barbells incorporate precious or semi-precious stones into the design, adding a touch of elegance and luxury to the jewelry.

Design Features

• Variety of Stones: Common gemstones include diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and opals.
• Settings: Gemstones can be set in prong, bezel, or pave settings, depending on the design.

Uses

• Special Occasions: Gemstone barbells are often chosen for special occasions such as weddings or anniversaries.
• Everyday Elegance: Also suitable for those who want to add a bit of sparkle to their everyday look.

Themed Barbells

Themed barbells feature designs inspired by various motifs, such as animals, flowers, skulls, and more.

Popular Themes

• Animal Designs: Barbell ends shaped like animals, such as owls, cats, or butterflies, are popular among nature lovers.
• Floral Designs: Floral-themed barbells are a favorite for their feminine and delicate appearance.
• Skull Designs: Skulls and other gothic motifs are common in alternative fashion circles.

Materials and Construction

• Sterling Silver and Gold: Themed barbells are often made from sterling silver or gold to achieve intricate detailing.
• Enamel and Color Accents: Many themed barbells incorporate enamel or colored accents to enhance the design.

Customizable Barbells

Interchangeable Ends

Some barbells are designed with interchangeable ends, allowing the wearer to switch out the decorative elements according to their mood or outfit.

Design and Functionality

• Threaded Ends: Interchangeable ends are typically threaded, making them easy to remove and replace.
• Variety of Options: Ends can include simple balls, spikes, gemstones, or more elaborate designs.

Uses

• Versatility: Ideal for those who like to change their look frequently without needing multiple pieces of jewelry.
• Personalization: Allows for a high degree of personalization, as the wearer can mix and match different ends.

DIY Barbells

For those who enjoy crafting their own jewelry, DIY barbell kits are available. These kits typically include bars and a variety of ends that can be assembled at home.

Kit Components

• Bars: Straight, curved, and circular bars in various sizes.
• Ends: A range of decorative ends, including beads, spikes, and charms.
• Tools: Some kits include tools for threading and securing the ends.

Creative Uses

• Unique Designs: Allows for the creation of truly unique pieces that reflect the wearer’s personality and style.
• Gift Ideas: DIY barbells can be a thoughtful and personalized gift option for friends and family.