Body piercing is the art of puncturing or cutting a part of the human body, to create an opening in which jewelry may be worn. Piercing has been practiced in nearly every culture all over the world for hundreds of years. This body art is reflected in many cultures for various reasons which may include religion, spirituality, fashion or eroticism. In the United States body piercing, that is piercing body parts other than ears, started in the early 70's, but has become most popular over the past ten years.

In the united states there are a select group of people that have come to appreciate the beauty of body jewelry. It has become a very popular trend with teens and young adults. However, caution should be taken when deciding to wear body jewelry as there is a possibility of infection. You should not use any type of fake gold or other jewelry made from base metals as they will be likely to corrode when exposed to body fluids. There are metals which are safe to use such as surgical implant stainless steel and surgical implant titanium. A professional may also suggest other safe metals.

If you prefer not to go through the trouble of body piercing, but still want to keep up with the trend, you may consider wearing certain types of jewelry which will make it look as though piercing has been done. The following are a few examples of such jewelry.

-Clip-on earrings that can also be worn as a naval ring.

-Magnetic earrings look as if the person is wearing a stud.

-Stick on earrings have adhesive backs which stick to the ear lobe.

-Ear cuffs are curved metal bands that press against the ear.

-Spring hoops stick to the ear by means of a spring force.

Wearing body jewelry can be fun and fashionable if certain precautions are taken before and after piercing. If you are willing to go through the trouble of body piercing which may include some pain, which varies in different individuals, then you are among the select group of people that will appreciate the fashion statement that is made with this type of body art.