If you want to elevate your ear game with a unique yet subtle piercing, a rook piercing might be the perfect choice. Nestled in the upper inner ridge of your ear cartilage, just above the daith, this piercing offers a chic, understated accent that pairs beautifully with everything from bold statement jewellery to minimalist designs.
Pain tolerance varies, but most people describe the sensation as moderate, around a 6 or 7 out of 10. Since it passes through thick cartilage, it’s a bit more intense than a standard lobe piercing but typically less painful than an industrial or snug piercing.
A skilled piercer will make the process quick and sterile—just a sharp pinch, some pressure, and a warm throbbing sensation afterwards. Many clients say the anticipation is worse than the actual piercing!
Rook piercings take patience, with full healing lasting 6 to 12 months (though initial tenderness subsides in 6–8 weeks). To keep irritation at bay, follow these aftercare tips:
✔ Clean twice daily with saline solution or piercing aftercare spray.
✔ Avoid sleeping on the pierced side—try a travel pillow if you’re a side sleeper.
✔ Don’t twist or change the jewellery too soon.
✔ Keep hands off unless they’re clean.
✔ Skip swimming in pools or hot tubs during early healing.
Redness and swelling are normal, but consult your piercer or a medical professional if you notice persistent pain, unusual discharge, or lumps.
At Carl Oliver, we offer a stunning range of implant-grade titanium rook jewellery—perfect for fresh piercings and healing, with styles to suit every aesthetic.
💎 Titanium Curved Barbell (from £9.99) – Ideal for initial healing.
✨ Gem-Set Barbells (from £12.99) – Add a touch of sparkle with cubic zirconia.
🌀 Opal Titanium Rings (from £14.99) – Ethereal elegance for any look.
⚫ Black Titanium Piercings (from £11.99) – Sleek and modern.
Titanium is hypoallergenic, lightweight, and biocompatible, making it the safest choice for new piercings. Whether you're exploring Camden’s piercing studios or prepping for a night out in Shoreditch, our jewellery ensures style without compromise.
London is home to some of the best piercing studios in the UK, offering expert service, top-tier hygiene standards, and stunning jewellery selections. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are some of the top spots to get your rook piercing in the city:
A long-standing favourite, Sacred Gold is known for its professional piercers and high-quality jewellery. They use implant-grade titanium and follow strict sterilisation protocols, making them a trusted choice for rook piercings. Their Covent Garden location is particularly popular, with a welcoming atmosphere and expert aftercare advice.
Renowned for its bespoke piercing experiences, The Circle is a luxury studio offering custom jewellery and expert consultations. Their piercers are APP (Association of Professional Piercers) members, ensuring top-notch safety and precision. If you want a high-end rook piercing with unique jewellery, this is the place to go.
For a punk-rock edge, Cold Steel in Camden is a legendary studio with decades of experience. They offer a range of piercing styles, including rook piercings, and stock everything from minimalist titanium barbells to bold statement pieces. Plus, their London Bridge location is perfect for those south of the river.
If you love dainty, elegant piercings, Astrid & Miyu is a must-visit. Their studios provide a chic, spa-like experience, with expert piercers who specialise in delicate placements like the rook. They also offer a stunning selection of gold and gemstone jewellery, perfect for a refined London look.
A hidden gem in East London, Metal Morphosis is known for its artistic approach to piercings. Their piercers take the time to ensure perfect placement, and they stock high-quality titanium and gold pieces. If you're after a trendy, curated ear setup, this is a fantastic choice.
London’s bustling lifestyle means you’ll need to be extra mindful of your new piercing. Avoid Tube grime, crowded spaces, and harsh weather during early healing. Stick to saline sprays, keep hair and scarves away from the area, and resist the urge to fiddle with it while exploring the city!
A rook piercing is the ultimate blend of subtlety and boldness—a perfect way to express your individuality. With the right aftercare and high-quality jewellery, you’ll be rocking your new look in no time.
Whether you opt for a luxury studio in Soho or a renowned spot in Camden, London has no shortage of amazing places to get your rook piercing. Pair it with high-quality jewellery from Carl Oliver, and you’ll have a stylish, safe, and uniquely London piercing to show off.
Ready to take the plunge? Book your appointment at one of these top studios and make your next piercing a true London experience!