Culture & Style
From Ritual to Runway: The Rise of the Diamond Septum Piercing
By Elana Zajdman, May 5, 2025
Diamond nose jewelry is one of the biggest trends this season, and it’s here to stay.
Cynthia Erivo at the “Wicked” Los Angeles Premiere on November 9, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Getty Images)
In many South Asian cultures, particularly India, nose ring jewelry—including styles like the septum piercing—has signified women’s coming of age for centuries. Whether to highlight one’s rebellious nature or symbolize their segue into womanhood, the intrigue associated with diamond nose jewelry has only gained momentum from one generation to the next. Some of the oldest nose rings can be traced back to the Middle East, some 4,000 years ago. Just like tattoos, diamond nose jewelry was once considered taboo in some cultures but has become a fashion accessory in recent years.
Ahead, explore the cultural roots, modern interpretations, and celebrity-fueled rise of the septum piercing—and why it’s become a defining accessory of self-expression.
Meet the Expert
- Maria Tashjian, founder of the luxury piercing and fine jewelry brand Maria Tash, is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the world of fine body adornment.
- Her namesake brand has expanded globally, with flagship boutiques in New York, London, Dubai, and beyond, attracting a devoted clientele that includes celebrities like Rihanna, Zoë Kravitz, and Gigi Hadid.
Nostril vs. Septum Piercing: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to diamond nose jewelry, the two most common styles are nostril piercings and septum piercings. The septum—located in the soft tissue between the nostrils—is a popular spot for those looking to make a bold yet elegant statement. Today’s options go far beyond traditional studs, with diamond hoops, clickers, and septum cuffs that offer sparkle without requiring a piercing. For those seeking an even more distinctive look, rhino piercings—placed vertically at the tip of the nose—are gaining traction, though the septum remains the most versatile and fashion-forward choice in facial jewelry.
Maria Tash on the Rise of the Septum Piercing Trend
Maria Tashjian, jewelry designer and founder of piercing haven Maria Tash, sat down with Only Natural Diamonds to discuss the evolution of nose piercings and modern jewelry design. “In the 90s, the perception of a nose piercing was more extreme than it is now. There’s definitely been an attitude shift towards being more inclusive and accepting of body modification as a whole,” she says. “When I started piercing, there was only very industrial body jewelry available – thick steel rings and barbells. I am proud to offer some fine jewelry options today that are stylish, lightweight, good for continuous wear, and that can enhance and help express my client’s style.”
Why Septum Piercings Are Having a Fashion Moment
According to Tashjian, nostril piercings have always been popular with their clients, but in the past few years, they’ve seen an uptick in septum piercings. With the help of the fashion industry and celebs alike, nose jewelry has become more widely accepted today than in generations past. In the West, septum piercings gained popularity in the early 2000s, and in the Spring-Summer 2022 season, we saw countless hit the runway. From Coperni, Courreges, and Isabel Marant to Rick Owens, diamond nose ring jewelry has proved to be one of the biggest style trends of recent years.
Nose jewelry has also taken over the front row, with It-girls like North West and her mom Kim Kardashian spotted in matching nose rings at the Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture show.
Facial jewelry also made a big splash at the Givenchy and Balmain Fall-Winter 2022 runway shows. Over the last couple of years, there have been countless A-Listers sporting their diamond nose jewelry. “We have recently pierced Florence Pugh and Lewis Hamilton. We also sent some celebrities like Gigi Hadid and MJ Rodriguez our Tash Cuffs, which give the look of a septum piercing without actually committing to it,” says Tashjian.
We’ve seen countless other celebs rocking nose rings over the last couple of years, including Zendaya, Katie Holmes, Zoë Kravitz, Rihanna, Cardi B, Kylie Jenner and Janelle Monet.
The Best Jewelry Picks for a Septum Piercing
Tashjian’s foray into nose piercings began organically, long before her namesake brand became a global destination. “I come from a background in the body jewelry world. Piercing started organically from reading literature, which led me to experiment and practice on myself and my friends. As a teen, I developed a love of multiple piercings and was enamored by images of Indian weddings and their elaborate multiple-lobe, cartilage, nostril, and septum jewelry.”
Today, Maria Tash has several boutiques in the US, Europe, the UK, and the Middle East. “We offer a wide array of nose piercing jewelry. For nostril piercings, we recommend lightweight jewelry like our plain gold hoops or our diamond threaded studs. These styles sit comfortably close to the skin and are optimal for long-term wear,” suggests Tashjian. For septum piercings, Tashjian recommends styles that feature the stones horizontally, such as their Diamond Dhara Hoop or Invisible Set Apsara Hoop.
Shop Natural Diamond Septum Rings
Whether you’re ready to get a septum piercing or are looking to upgrade your current jewelry, we’ve rounded up 12 of the best diamond septum rings and cuffs to splurge on this season, at every price point.
Maria Tash 6.5mm Invisible Diamond Apsara Clicker, $2,900, mariatash.com
The Last Line Sphere Hoop with White Diamond, $995, thisisthelast.com
Mad Lords Piercing Créole 8 mm Diamant Marquise, $340, madlords.com
Latua Luce Cartilage Hoop Diamond Clicker Piercing, $480, latualucejewelry.com
Maria Tash Diamond Horizontal Eternity Hoop Earring, $690, mariatash.com
Pamela Love Floating Diamond 6mm Daith Clicker, $295, pamelalove.com
Tempeste Diamond‑Set Solid 14 kt Gold Chain Clicker, $1,125, buddhajewelry.com
Artemer Luna Tapered Baguette-Cut Diamond Septum Nose Ring, $2,000, artemerstudio.com
Maria Tash Invisible Set Diamond Three‑Row Pavé Hoop Earring, $980, mariatash.com
Septum Piercing FAQ
What is a septum piercing?
A septum piercing is a type of nose piercing placed through the thin piece of tissue (the “sweet spot”) between the nostrils. Unlike a nostril piercing, it doesn’t go through cartilage, making it more flexible for jewelry styles.
What metal is best for a septum piercing?
For initial healing, it’s best to use high-quality, hypoallergenic metals such as implant-grade titanium, 18k–24k gold, or niobium. These materials reduce the risk of irritation and infection and are ideal for sensitive skin.
How much does a septum piercing cost?
The cost of a septum piercing typically ranges from $40 to $100 for the piercing procedure alone. Jewelry is usually priced separately, and fine jewelry options (such as diamond hoops or studs) can range from $100 to over $1,000, depending on materials and design.
How long does a septum piercing take to heal?
Healing time for a septum piercing is usually 6 to 8 weeks, though it can vary by individual. Full healing may take longer if the area is bumped, irritated, or exposed to bacteria.
How do I clean and care for a septum piercing?
Use a sterile saline solution twice daily to gently clean the piercing. Avoid touching it with dirty hands, submerging it in water (like pools or hot tubs), or twisting the jewelry unnecessarily during healing. Stick to clean, breathable environments while the area heals.
Can I hide my septum piercing?
Yes! One of the perks of a septum piercing is that it can be flipped up inside the nose using a horseshoe-shaped retainer, making it easy to conceal when needed.
How do you change out a septum piercing?
Wait until the piercing is fully healed before changing the jewelry. Wash your hands thoroughly, and use a mirror and proper tools like a septum clicker or seamless ring. If you’re unsure or nervous, a professional piercer can safely switch it out for you.
Does getting a septum piercing hurt?
Pain levels vary, but many describe the sensation as a quick pinch with mild, brief discomfort. Since it doesn’t go through cartilage, most people find it less painful than other nose or ear piercings.
