Niobium Body Jewelry -  Rare Elemental Metal

While not as common as some of the other jewelry materials, niobium can be used to good effect.  Very few people experience irritation when using body jewelry made of niobium.

Niobium comes in two different finishes, matte or “satin”, and high polish or “mirror”.  Matte finished niobium should not be used in a new piercing.  It is porous and can harbor bacteria.  There is also a chance that the piercing could heal into these pours causing a tear upon removal.

Highly polished niobium can be used for new piercings.  Cheap or poorly polished niobium, usually the same thing, can cause problems.  Make sure you are using a highly polished piece of jewelry.

Through the process of anodizing niobium can come in a wide variety of colors.  This forms a colored oxide layer.  Over time this layer may fade due to friction.

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