Borosilicate vs Soda‑Lime: Why MM Glassworks Chooses Premium Borosilicate for Body Jewelry

Borosilicate vs Soda‑Lime: Why MM Glassworks Chooses Premium Borosilicate for Body Jewelry

Why Borosilicate Glass Is Superior to Soda Lime for Body Piercing Jewelry

Body piercing jewelry has evolved dramatically over the years, with materials playing a crucial role in both aesthetics and safety. While metals like titanium and surgical steel dominate the market, glass jewelry has carved out its own niche — especially for stretching and healing piercings. Among the types of glass used, borosilicate glass stands head and shoulders above soda lime glass, the more common glass found in household items. But what makes borosilicate so special for body jewelry? Let’s break it down.


What Is the Difference Between Borosilicate and Soda Lime Glass?

Composition & Durability

  • Borosilicate glass is made primarily from silica and boron trioxide, giving it a unique structure that’s resistant to thermal shock, mechanical stress, and chemical corrosion.
  • Soda lime glass, on the other hand, consists of silica, sodium oxide, and calcium oxide. It’s cheaper to produce and commonly used in windows, bottles, and dishware, but it lacks the toughness and stability of borosilicate.

Clarity and Finish

  • Borosilicate is highly transparent and maintains its clarity over time.
  • Soda lime glass tends to fog or stain more easily, especially when exposed to moisture or skin oils — a concern for body jewelry that needs to look pristine.

Benefits of Borosilicate Glass for Piercing Jewelry

1. Superior Safety and Biocompatibility

Borosilicate glass is non-porous and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin and fresh or healing piercings. It doesn’t leach chemicals, and it doesn’t harbor bacteria — two big wins for body safety.

Try the Translucent White Single Flare Tunnels — perfect for initial stretches or sensitive lobes.

2. Thermal and Mechanical Strength

Because of its unique molecular structure, borosilicate glass resists cracking under temperature changes or physical impact much better than soda lime. This means fewer accidents when cleaning or wearing the jewelry in hot showers, cold weather, or while stretching.

Want something bold and durable? Check out the Rainbow Borosilicate Single Flare Tunnels for reliable wear with vibrant style.

3. Aesthetic Quality

Borosilicate glass allows for more intricate designs and vibrant colors, maintaining clarity and detail over time. It doesn’t discolor or degrade with regular wear, ensuring the jewelry continues to look stunning.

For standout color and clarity, explore the Colorado Sunset Single Flare Tunnels — each one has a hand-crafted burst of pink and amber hues.

Looking for a touch of cosmic flair? Try Galaxy Dichro Blue Tunnels for a sparkling finish made in the USA.

4. Custom Craftsmanship

Most high-quality glass body jewelry is hand-crafted from borosilicate, allowing artisans to create seamless, polished, and custom-fit pieces. This level of artistry is hard to achieve with soda lime due to its lower heat tolerance and brittleness.

For a truly artisan piece, browse the Crushed Opal Double Flare Plugs, where finely milled opal is suspended inside durable borosilicate glass.


Final Thoughts

While both types of glass might look similar at first glance, borosilicate glass is the clear winner for body piercing jewelry — offering safety, strength, and style that soda lime simply can’t match. Whether you're a piercing veteran or just starting your journey, investing in borosilicate glass jewelry ensures your body gets the best in both form and function.

Your body deserves better than soda lime. Choose borosilicate — choose MM Glassworks.

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