316L Stainless Steel

316L is the grade most body jewelry means when it says "surgical steel." It is a hard, corrosion-resistant stainless steel that takes a high polish and holds it — durable, heavy in the hand, and considerably cheaper than titanium or gold.

This collection covers our 316L range: hinged hoops, seamless rings, barbells, labret studs, nose jewelry and threadless tops.

Here is the honest version of where it fits. 316L contains nickel as part of the alloy. It is bound tightly and most people wear it without any trouble at all, which is why it has been an industry standard for decades. But nickel sensitivity is common, and for a piercing that is still healing — or for anyone whose ears react easily — implant-grade titanium is the safer choice. The word "surgical" describes where the alloy is used in industry, not a guarantee about your tissue.

So: 316L is a good option for a healed piercing, for everyday wear, and for anyone who has worn steel before without issue. For a fresh piercing, or if you are troubleshooting one that stays irritated, start with titanium instead.

Our guide to titanium vs surgical steel covers the difference in detail. Browse the full implant-grade titanium range, or solid 14K gold.