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    STUDS SoCo

    4.3 (212 reviews)
    ModeratePiercing, Jewelry
    Open 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Services - STUDS SoCo

    Piercing

    STUDS SoCo Photos

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    Rachel H.

    I had the best experience! They walked me through the process and gave me time to decide what I wanted. I love my new piercings and the earrings are highly quietly and comfy with the flat backs. I highly recommend this place!

    I took my 13 year old to get a helix piercing. Marissa was great! She answered all our questions and made sure my daughter was comfortable with the whole process. Thank you!

    New flat helix piercing. I previously got my third hole piercing at a Studs location as well.
    Cynthia H.

    I have been to Studs before in Austin, but I recently visited this location to get another ear piercing with my cousin. Studs are very clean and sanitary and make you feel very comfortable. We didn't pre-book an appointment this time but walked in and were given an appointment within the hour. We walked south Congress for a bit before returning for our scheduled time. Be advised they only do ear piercing here and only two piercings at a time. We both decided on a flat helix piercing. Laos was our piercer, and we had a great time with the consultation and jewelry selection, then got right to business. Studs offer a wide selection of jewelry, and all Studs have a flat back, which makes healing more manageable and with less pain. I went first, and it was really quick and with minimal pain. They use a needle over a gun, which is so much better. I am so happy with my experience and my new piercing. A must-visit for ear piercing!

    Got my Helix pierced! Check out the cute lightening bolt 14k gold jewelry too from the shop :)
    Christine A.

    5 STARS FOR MATT! This was my first time coming to a Studs for an ear piercing (they only do ear piercings btw), and the vibes here already solidified my trust in them thanks to my positive experience with Matt and the staff here. He was super cool, calm, and collected, and he never made me feel anxious or rushed my experience. I'm honestly one of the most indecisive people ever, and I appreciated how honest and helpful he was when it came to choosing my jewelry too. I hope every time I visit a Studs location, the piercers are like him! As for the experience, it's pretty seamless. Booking an appointment online is the most recommended... I came on a Saturday and it was packed. If it wasn't for the appointment that was running late, I probably wouldn't have been able to be seen. You use a QR code to fill out your waiver, get your ID checked, pick out your jewelry, then BAM--go to the back to get pierced (front desk gives you a mask/requires you to wear it during your appointment) and check back out in the front. For the most part, everything is contactless, which was pretty awesome/efficient. Visiting Studs was a fun time and made my visit to Austin memorable. So happy to know there are other Studs locations just in case I visit another big city and spontaneously want an ear piercing again ;)

    Snake bite piercing and all 3 studs from there
    Erin P.

    Very helpful, clean and professional. Not to mention super quick and really easy to schedule a piercing.

    Starburst conch and emerald helix are new, plus starburst huggie
    Mindy D.

    I have 7 ear piercings, this was first time at Studs getting 2 more. There was nothing bad about my experience, it was just expensive and the vibes were disappointing. The Good: - easy booking online - really good range of stylish earrings, ranging in price and materials - free drink and snack while signing paperwork - everything seemed clean - my piercer helped me decide what to get that would look best and I trusted him The Meh: - it is expensive - for the $, I was hoping a stylist would help me more; pick out earrings and choose new piercings that would look best, but this doesn't appear to be part of the service (I may have watched too much TikTok...) - this was surprising considered I booked an apt in advance, there were 3 members of staff mostly talking to each other, and I was instructed to get there 10-15 mins early. - It felt like i was in the way, not a valued customer. My piercer wasn't ready until another 10 mins, so I spent about 20 mins wandering about, feeling a bit lost. - When my piercer was ready, it was the opposite experience; very quick, efficient, and speedy, so it felt a bit thrashy to go from sitting down for 20 mins and then being done so quickly. I spent $460 (2x piercings for $50, 2x 18k gold earrings, 1 with emerald, plus 2 new huggies). I may buy more or go back, not sure yet :)

    Valerie W.

    I responded to their email and never got a response back. Just wanted to make sure people knew that the replies to the reviews don't yield actual responses.

    14K Snake Stud!
    John B.

    Ok... there might be some low (unwarranted) reviews here, but before you makeup your mind, hear me out. I have never gotten my ears pierced (well, I did when I was younger but that was my brother piercing me with a needle and thread....), so I decided it was time to leave it to the professionals. I have had other piercings including my lip done twice by other professional studios and have had every type of experience from bad to great, so I kinda know what to expect... Unlike Claires, when you have a professional piercer, they will use a straight needle, NOT A GUN. The piercer should also coach you with breathing techniques while getting pierced. This makes the whole process more enjoyable, less shocking and less painful. Lets get into it... Booking was a breeze. Yes, they book a few weeks out, but I was lucky enough to snag one a few days before. I'm guessing they had a cancellation. I had good feelings about this when the intake formed asked me for my preferred pronouns. The day of the piercing we arrived at the studio. They were doing temp checks for covid protocol, but I dont know if this is still in place. Either way it felt safe. Chris was my piercer and they were amazing. First, they helped me pick jewelry... I wanted black little diamonds, but they explained because of my ear shape it would work better with a larger stud, so we went with a lightening bolt and snake. When I picked the snake, Chris joked that we were about to summon Manon, and anyone who can throw a subtle reference from The Craft has my heart... I was ready to live my Nancy fantasy. I had friends with me, but wasn't allowed to bring them in (again I assume covid protocol), but even if thats how it is all the time, I am 100% okay with that because it allowed me and Chris to really connect and be present in the moment. They explained everything that was going to happen, and then we went through the breathing. As you breath in and out they help you relax. On an exhale, Chris pierced me in one swift pierce. It was pretty painless. They also gave me great after care instructions and their IG handle in case I had any questions. I will say, yes it is a little pricey, but I felt safe, cared for, and the quality of the jewelry was way better than most places. 14K gold baby!!! Also, side note, for those that don't know, yes you will bleed. Yes, you might bleed the next day. Yes you might bruise a week later. You have literally just shoved a foreign object through your skin. These kinds of things should be expected, and for the most part they warn you of all of this. It's been a month since I was pierced and they have healed great. After 2 weeks I felt pretty much back to normal. Chris also explained that Studs is a female owned business, they treat their employees well, offer insurance, and overall are a great company to work for. This made me feel even better about the whole experience. Studs is trying to make professional ear piercing accessible to all. I know going to a tattoo shop can be daunting for some, and claires can feel a little sketch when you are getting pierced by a 16 year old... Studs is the perfect in between. The only complaint I have has already been mentioned... the receptionist. Not exactly welcoming, just kinda stoic and not exactly helpful, just quick and curt. But Chris really turned that around. Once I got out of the piercing, the receptionist had changed attitudes, maybe cause I picked expensive jewelry, or maybe because she was having an off day. Anyways.... Get some receptionists that match the energy of the piercers and this place will do great.

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    2 years ago

    I have been to Studs multiple times and had a great experience there every time. The staff is very nice and friendly. Highly recommend!

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    2 years ago

    Love studs- such a cool vibe and the jewelry options they have a great! I've only purchased have not been pierced yet but want to!

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    3 years ago

    The absolute best place!! I have gotten a few piercings here and they always turn out so cute!

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    Page 1 of 6

    STUDS SoCo Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - STUDS SoCo

    I have severe allergies to metal. Will the studio allow me to use brand new studs to get pierced or will they require me to buy their earrings instead?

    Can someone under 18 get a piercing with a parent present?

    View All 4 Questions

    Review Highlights - STUDS SoCo

    Chris was super kind and helpful with helping my friend and I decide what to get pierced and which jewlery to chose.

    Mentioned in 29 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    I brought my daughter's engagement ring to be polished and cleaned before her wedding and they were…read morewonderful!! Highly recommend.

    I went to Kruger's to repair two 18k gold bracelets that broke at the link/connecting hinge. First,…read moreupon entering the store, the staff promptly greeted me and listened to my concerns about the broken links. I spoke with Ryan, who was very attentive and assured me not to worry, the bracelets would be fixed. I was glad to learn they have an in-house goldsmith who handles all repairs, so this brought me peace of mind. Upon inspection, Raymond told me I should hear back within a day or so with an estimate. Lo and behold, I did receive a call back quickly and approved the repair cost. The repairs were completed within the estimated time frame. However, during the repair process, one of the bracelets (18k gold two-tone) lost a diamond on the top facing side of the link. Not to worry, said Ryan, they would fix it at no charge. I got a call the next day that it was fixed. I walked over, only to discover that now the bracelet was missing another diamond on the inner-facing side of the link. This particular bracelet holds a sentimental value to me due to its design and because it commemorates a milestone memory. Diamonds on the top links and double-sided with an inscription underneath. Each link contains the same inscription underneath with one diamond stone per link. Anyhow, once I pointed out the issue, Ryan assured me they would fix it, at no additional cost. I was expecting a call back perhaps 2-4 days later but to my surprise, I got a call the next day that my bracelet was ready. Upon careful and close inspection, the bracelet was repaired perfectly. The other bracelet (18k white gold) had no issue and was repaired perfectly the first time around. Overall, I was very pleased with Ryan and the staff's exceptional service. Kruger's will now be my go-to place for all repairs, and I will definitely come back as I have my eye on a lovely diamond bracelet.

    Kendra Scott Flagship

    Kendra Scott Flagship

    (217 reviews)

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    SoCo (S. Congress Ave.), 78704 (South Austin)

    I've been wanting some Kendra Scott pieces for some time and I finally purchased a pair of…read moreearrings. I decided to order online and pick up at the flagship store so I could check out more pieces and their cafe. Parking isn't the greatest but that's South Congress in general but they do offer valet. I'm big on customer service and I can say my experience here wasn't the best. While the store was slightly busy, workers can be identified in white button ups and blue jeans. Had I not flagged someone down for my pickup, I probably wouldn't have been serviced. There were several employees standing and observing. The store itself is beautiful with pieces on display. They also have different sections for engraving as well as a color bar. From what I read, you can customize your own piece by selecting your metals and gemstones. I was interested but again, no one really cared to assist me so I decided against it. After picking up my order and making it to the car, I decided to check out my earrings. Luckily I did because one of the earrings was actually broken so I decided in that moment to take them back and get another pair. I explained this to the first worker I encountered and she went to get me another pair without a problem. However, the lady assisting me at the register with the exchange (who was the same lady I'd just picked up my order from) actually retrieved pliers and attempted to fix it. After a few moments, I had to tell her that I didn't want this pair fixed but a brand new pair considering I literally just purchased them and didn't have a chance to "break" them myself. After that, she agreed and simply swapped the earrings. The line for the café was long so unfortunately, I was unable to try it. I love the pieces offered and the community partnerships Kendra Scott has but customer service could be better.

    I've been a KS loyalist since my sister first got me the Ari Heart necklace as a birthday gift. It…read morehelps that one of my college roommates was a former Keyholder at a different store out of state. I came into the store on 11/12 hoping to either get my ring cleaned or replaced for a new one. I had an inkling that they would say no due to the time frame being several years since first purchase. They also explained they don't do this for fashion jewelry but might do it for their fine collection. I'm not sure if it's because I came near closing but everyone was super helpful and welcoming. I don't remember how many different staff members I encountered but everyone was excellent. I took my time looking at the display cases, but ended up at the Color Bar. I decided on a double-band rose gold ring with a white holographic gem . This is after the Keyholder provided me many rings AND gems to try on. She was so patient! I thought this was a new style, but when I came home realized I previously got the same ring in silver & a blue-toned gem. That one got lost though, so I'm happy to have this one in my collection now! The onsite cafe is super cute and I want to come back with friends to take pictures, have coffee, and eat bites of the pastries

    STUDS

    STUDS

    (3 reviews)

    SoCo (S. Congress Ave.), Bouldin Creek, 78704 (South Austin)

    Google gun piercing vs needle and you will find out like me why the mall trap of piercing is doomed…read moreto get an infection. Also if you are bringing your kid (minor) make sure you have a copy of their passport/birth certificate, or state issues id. Anyhoo.. nice folks, clean place, good relaxing vibes. We walked in mid week in Dec. No appointment a bit past lunch time. Its in the same shop area as la la land coffee off congress. We went mid week knowing there was a 15$ discount for non weekend days. Our 1st time with needle piercing. The longest part with a minor in needing documentation of a gov/ state ID. Seriously TX.. it seems like theres more laws around minors getting their ears pierced or gender bathroom drama vs gun ownership.. insane. Not STUDS fault. Nice folks who helped us feel comfortable right from hello, helped us pick out flat back studs for my daughters 2nd piercing. All in was about 170.00ish. $50 per ear then the flat back studs $35ish for each. Pain level 5 out of 10 (10 being worst) with the needle method vs mall gun 8/10 says my middle school daughter who gets very anxious quickly. She said is was just a pinch like getting a flu shot. All in all we'd go back. The piercer was very good with infection control (i work in the medical field). They marked the spot and wasn't rushing when we decided on the optimal spot. Paperwork took longer than the 2, 2nd hole piercings. My daughters eat wasn't red hot like the blunt mall gun post needle procedure. Id go back to get more piercings even with the cost being a lot more than the gun piercing method at the malls. Would be super fun to come with friends to get the ear dazzled and take home a bit o Austin.

    I had the pleasure of meeting and getting pierced by JAX. JAX was awesome , professional,…read morepatience, knowledgeable and kind. She also recommended piercing jewelry and different piercings that made my ear design Amazing . If you check out this location I highly recommend JAX she ATE with all my piercings.

    Caleesi Designs Jewelers - 14k gold band with embossed design and dots of diamonds, 0.55 carat lab grown diamond, peridot gems

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    I'm absolutely speechless--in the best way! Caleesi exceeded my expectations by helping me redesign…read moreand modernize a treasured family heirloom ring. The blue stone originally belonged to my grandfather and was set in his ring. After he passed, my mom had it reset in the 1980s and added the diamond. Caleesi thoughtfully repurposed the original gold and helped me create something new and uniquely mine while honoring its history. When I saw the finished piece, I was completely overcome with emotion. The result is stunning, and I couldn't be more grateful for the care and artistry that went into it.

    I recently brought in my late father's rings to be resized and added sizing beads. These hold…read moresentimental value to me, and I loved how they looked worn with the memory that reminded me of how he wore them. When I picked them up I was shocked and disappointed to find that they had been polished to a high shine. They looked like completely different rings and not the ones I remembered and cherished. I understand that jewelers often polish after resizing but I wish I had been asked first or at least given the option to decline polishing. Changing the finish without consent can really alter the meaning the piece carries. While the resizing itself was done the lack of communication about altering their appearance was heartbreaking. I would advise anyone bringing in sentimental pieces to clearly state their preferences. Additionally the sizing bead spacing is also inconsistent even though both rings were meant to be the same size. One ring fits comfortably while the other causes pain because the beads were placed closer together. They did offer to correct it. I've brought pieces here over time and overall I do think they do a good job. Despite this and a couple other hiccups in the past I do believe they do quality work. Unfortunately, after my most recent experience I will not be returning.

    STUDS SoCo - piercing - Updated May 2026

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