Body Jewelry 101

internally threaded barbell

Internally Threaded vs Externally Threaded Body Jewelry

When shopping for new body jewelry, you will likely see internally or externally threaded body jewelry offered. If you are not familiar with these terms, remember this-threads exist on body jewelry that has an end ball that screws on and off. Barbells, belly rings, labrets, etc. The thread is exactly the same as the thread on a bolt.

Externally threaded body jewelry has the thread on the end of the barbell, and it is placed inside a threaded hole in the ball.  Internally threaded body jewelry has a threaded hole inside the barbell, and then an external thread protruding from the ball.  Internally threaded body jewelry does cost more, and it is recommended for initial piercings. It is also more expensive to buy replacement balls for internally threaded body jewelry.