People looking for a way to remember an important life event sometimes turn to choosing some permanent jewelry. Beautiful chains made from a variety of metals are most often placed around the wrist, like an upgraded friendship bracelet. The chains, with or without dangles and charms, can also be placed around the neck and ankle. The process is quick and painless as the chain is soldered together using a pulse-arc welder around the wrist, ankle or neck. The finished product is simple and sleek. No clasp means the chain is uninterrupted, no more adjusting your jewelry to hide the connecting piece. Permanent means you wear it always, since the only way to remove it is to cut it off.

Blaine Smith, owner of the Gem Smith in Bountiful, has done permanent jewelry for years on occasion. A growing trend and safer soldering gun have made the jewelry much more accessible. “The farmers markets that offer this type of jewelry may have four-five options, but we have over 100 options,” said Smith. Stainless steel permanent bracelets cost as little as $35, while stainless silver, gold filled, 14K, and 18K gold cost more. For example 14K gold can run between $150-$300. He soldered a diamond-all-around tennis bracelet for one customer. “Ninety percent of permanent jewelry is a bracelet,” said Smith, “with the remaining 10 percent being an anklet or necklace.” Recently, he had a couple come in on their 15th wedding anniversary and each purchased a permanent bracelet to mark the day. The bracelets were not matching, and expressed the tastes of each one. Permanent can suggest a commitment like a marriage. Another family, came in after the death of a beloved grandmother. Each of the female children and grandchildren were fitted with a permanent bracelet of remembrance. Another group of sisters had a going-away party for one of their number leaving on a mission and marked their unity with an anklet or bracelet that is always worn. “Any excuse to get something fun,” said Smith.

Usually, the jewelry is sleek and strong since it needs to be comfortable enough to wear while sleeping and hardy enough to be worn in any kind of daily activity. Yes, permanent jewelry will pass security at the Airport. It can be worn while swimming and showering. On a rare occasion, like a medical MRI, the jewelry may need to be cut off. Occasionally, the bracelet will break due to wear or accident. Soldering is still an options afterwards to restore the chain. 

The Gem Smith has been operating in Bountiful for 40 years. Smith, got his start making jewelry while taking a jewelry class at Bountiful High School. His first shop was in his back yard followed by a second shop that was located where Costco is now, for 18 years. His current shop located on 587 West 2600 South, in The Square, in Bountiful specializes in repairs as well as church-themed and custom jewelry. Check out the website at gemsmith.com