How to Use Internally Threaded Jewellery
Small screw-in ends can feel fiddly at first. Follow our simple guide to fitting, fastening and removing internally threaded jewellery without forcing the connection.
Internally Threaded Jewellery at a Glance
A smooth post and a screw-in end work together to secure your jewellery.
Smooth Post
The screw thread sits inside the post.
Screw-In End
The removable end has a tiny threaded stem.
Gentle Fastening
Turn the end until snug, without overtightening.
Unscrew to Remove
Hold the post still while loosening the end.
What Does Internally Threaded Mean?
The thread is cut inside the jewellery post. The removable ball or decorative end has a small screw stem that fits into it, leaving the outside of the post smooth.
This fastening is used on some flat back studs, barbells and other piercing jewellery. Check your product description to identify the removable end.
Threaded or Threadless?
Internally threaded jewellery screws together. Threadless jewellery uses a smooth tension-fit pin that pushes into the post.
Do not bend an internally threaded screw stem or try to push it into place. It needs to engage with a compatible thread.
How to Fit Internally Threaded Jewellery
Use clean, dry hands, good lighting and a mirror. Check that the size and style suit your fully healed piercing.
Prepare Your Jewellery
Work over a clean surface. Hold the post and gently unscrew the removable end. Keep the small end somewhere safe.
Gently Insert the Post
Guide the smooth post through your healed piercing from the appropriate side. For a flat back labret, the flat disc usually sits behind the piercing.
Align the Screw Stem
Hold the post steady and position the threaded stem straight into its opening. Gently turn the end clockwise to engage the thread, looking directly at the removable end.
Fasten Until Snug
Continue gently turning the end until it is seated and feels snug. Keep hold of the post so it does not rotate through your piercing.
A connection that will not turn smoothly may be misaligned, incompatible or damaged. Forcing it can cross-thread or strip the fastening. Stop, separate the parts and check them before trying again.
Three Mistakes to Avoid
Small components need careful alignment and gentle handling.
Overtightening
Extra force can damage the thread and make removal difficult. Aim for snug, using gentle finger pressure.
Pushing or Bending the Stem
This is a screw connection. The threaded stem should stay straight and turn into the post.
Mixing Incompatible Parts
The same jewellery gauge does not guarantee matching screw threads. Use ends and posts designed to work together.
How to Remove Internally Threaded Jewellery
Hold the Post Still
Grip the post or flat back with clean, dry fingers. Support it so the jewellery does not spin or pull through your piercing.
Unscrew the Removable End
Looking directly at the removable end, gently turn it anticlockwise until it separates. Keep the end safe, then carefully guide the smooth post out.
Common Internally Threaded Jewellery Questions
Which way should I turn the end?
For standard screw threads, look directly at the removable end: clockwise tightens it and anticlockwise loosens it. Hold the post still while turning the end. A mirror can make the direction feel confusing, so take your time.
Why won't the end screw into the post?
Check that the stem is straight, aligned with the opening and compatible with the post. If it catches, stop and unscrew it rather than pressing harder. Contact us if it still will not engage smoothly.
Why does my decorative end keep coming loose?
Check that it is fully seated and gently snug, without overtightening. Periodically check the fastening during wear. If it repeatedly loosens or spins without tightening, stop wearing it and contact us so we can check the parts.
Can I swap the end for any other internally threaded top?
Only if the parts are compatible. Thread size and pitch can vary between designs and manufacturers, even when the jewellery gauge is the same. Check compatibility before mixing tops and posts.
What if my jewellery is stuck or damaged?
Avoid pulling, forcing or using household tools. A professional piercer can help with removal. For a damaged screw stem or fastening, email support@cherrydiva.co.uk with your order number and clear photos.
Is your piercing still healing?
This fitting guide is for fully healed piercings. If your piercing is new, irritated or difficult to access, speak to a professional piercer before changing your jewellery.
