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Ready to bring some extra dimension to your ear game? It’s time to meet the rook piercing. This upper-ear placement is the latest trend captivating our piercers, and it's the perfect balance of edge and elegance for anyone looking to break up their usual lobe-and-helix routine. With lots of styling options and a unique vertical placement, it’s the missing piece your ear stack has been waiting for.

What is a rook piercing? 

A rook is a tucked away inner-ear piercing through the thick, upper fold of cartilage behind your forward helix – sometimes referred to as the antihelix. Since it’s located directly above the daith, it’s easy to get these two piercing styles mixed up. We’ve put together a helpful diagram below so you can see the difference clearly.

What jewellery is compatible with a rook piercing?

A rook piercing is unique because it doesn’t pass from the front to the back of the ear like most piercings. Instead, it passes vertically through a horizontal ridge of cartilage, meaning that both ends of the piercing jewellery are on display. Because of this, a normal piercing labret or stud earring is not compatible with a rook piercing. Instead try a decorative curved barbell or special rook hoop for this placement.  

Shop Rook Jewellery

Solstice Rook Bar in Solid Gold - Dhs. 1,137

Dhs. 1,137

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What ear anatomy do you need for a rook piercing?

All ears are different, and some piercings - like a rook piercing - rely on specific cartilage structure to hold jewellery. To know whether you have the right ear anatomy for a rook piercing, look for a defined horizontal ridge of cartilage in the upper inner fold of your ear. If you’re still not sure what you’re looking for, visit us in-store to speak to an expert piercer. 

If your ear anatomy isn’t quite right for a rook piercing, a piercer can often give you a similar effect with a ‘faux rook’ (piercing through the flat surface of the upper ear) instead.

At A&M, our piercers will always help you find the perfect placement to complement your ear anatomy and your dream ear stack.  

Solid White Gold Graduated Rook Hoop - Dhs. 945

Dhs. 945

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How should I style my rook piercing?

At A&M we have plenty of 14k solid gold barbells and rook hoops to choose from. 

If you enjoy wearing crystals and gemstones in your stack, go for the Molten Opal Rook Bar or the Marquise Rook Hoop.

If you prefer plain metal, try the effortless Graduated Rook Hoop or the Heart Rook Bar.

Molten Opal Rook Bar in Solid Gold - Dhs. 1,155

Dhs. 1,155

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How painful is a rook piercing?

A rook is pierced through a thick, dense fold of cartilage, so it makes sense that people rank the pain a little higher for this piercing. The sensation is often described as a sharp, intense pressure, but since the actual piercing only takes a second or two, it’s over before you know it.

A tip from our piercers is to focus on your breathing. A few deep exhales and your new rook will be ready for its first photo shoot.

Topaz Cluster Rook Bar in Solid Gold - Dhs. 1,155

Dhs. 1,155

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How do I look after my new piercing? 

Rook piercings are known for being tricky healers. To make sure your piercing heals as quickly as possible, you’ll need to give it some extra love and care along the way. Healing time will vary person to person, but here are our top tips for a smooth aftercare process: 

• Clean your piercing with PierceMed Aftercare Solution twice a day until it is fully healed. You should do this for a minimum of 6-12 months for cartilage. Spray the front and back of your piercing and dry the area with a clean paper towel afterwards.
  

• Outside of cleaning, try to avoid touching your piercing, and when you have to, always wash your hands.
  

• Try to avoid sleeping on your piercing, as this can cause irritation.
  

• Book in for a Piercing Aftercare & Curation appointment so your piercer can check in on your new piercing and give the area a gentle clean. This will help the rest of the healing process go smoothly.
  

• Wait until your piercing has fully healed before changing the jewellery.
  
  

How long does a rook piercing take to heal?

Rook piercings can take 12 months+ to heal. This might seem like a long time at first, but for a lifetime of your dream ear stack, it’s a small price to pay. 

Piercing, the A&M way

Our team of expert piercers are ready and waiting to help you curate your dream ear stack in-store.

Book your appointment now