Maria Tash is a high-end piercing studio with locations in New York, Los Angeles, and London
Maria Tash operates as a luxury piercing practice, not a traditional piercing shop. The studio focuses on fine jewelry and precise placement rather than walk-in service. Each piercing is done by appointment, and the studio works with clients to design custom pieces or select from curated collections before the procedure.
The studio is known for detailed ear piercings — including placements on the cartilage, tragus, and conch — and also offers body piercings. Maria Tash herself is a piercer and jewelry designer; the studio carries her own jewelry line alongside pieces from other high-end designers. Prices reflect the quality of materials (typically solid gold, titanium, or platinum) and the custom nature of the work.
Key Takeaways
- Maria Tash operates by appointment only at three locations: New York City, Los Angeles, and London.
- The studio specializes in ear cartilage piercings and custom jewelry design, with pricing that varies by piercing type and jewelry selection.
- All jewelry is high-end — typically 14K or 18K gold, platinum, or medical-grade titanium — and is often selected or designed during your consultation.
- The piercing fee and jewelry cost are separate; you pay for the piercing service and then for the piece you choose to wear.
How to book an appointment and what to expect
You can book through the Maria Tash website by selecting your location and preferred piercer. The studio asks for details about the piercing you want — location on the ear or body, style preferences, and whether you already own a piece you'd like to use. First-time clients should expect the appointment to include a consultation where the piercer discusses placement, jewelry options, and aftercare.
Appointments typically last 30 minutes to an hour depending on complexity. The piercer will mark the placement on your ear or body, show you how it will look, and adjust it if needed before piercing. You'll then select or confirm your jewelry choice. The studio does not perform piercings without jewelry in place.
Piercing fees and jewelry pricing
Maria Tash charges separately for the piercing service and the jewelry. Piercing fees vary by location and complexity — a single ear lobe piercing costs less than a cartilage or conch piercing. The studio does not publish flat rates online; prices are confirmed during booking or consultation.
Jewelry prices depend on material and design. A straightforward solid gold stud may start around $200 to $400, while more elaborate pieces or those with gemstones can cost significantly more. The studio also carries pieces at various price points, and you can bring your own jewelry if it meets the studio's material and safety standards — though this is not common practice.
Jewelry materials and aftercare requirements
Maria Tash uses only high-quality materials: 14K or 18K gold, platinum, and medical-grade titanium. The studio avoids plated or low-karat metals that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. If you have a metal allergy, mention it during booking so the piercer can recommend appropriate materials.
Aftercare instructions are provided at your appointment. Most piercings require cleaning with saline solution twice daily for several weeks. The studio may recommend specific products or provide aftercare guidance in writing. Healing time varies — ear lobe piercings typically heal in 6 to 8 weeks, while cartilage piercings can take 3 to 12 months depending on placement.
Locations and how to contact the studio
Maria Tash has three permanent locations: Manhattan (New York), West Hollywood (Los Angeles), and Mayfair (London). Each location operates independently but follows the same standards for piercing and jewelry. You can book online through the website, which shows availability by location and piercer.
If you have questions before booking — about a specific piercing type, jewelry options, or pricing — you can contact the studio through the website's contact form or by phone. Response times vary by location, but the studio typically replies within one to two business days.
What to bring and how to prepare
Bring a valid photo ID to your appointment. Wear clean clothes and avoid heavy makeup or products on the area being pierced. If you're nervous about pain, eat a light meal beforehand and stay hydrated — this can help you feel steadier during the procedure.
If you're under 18, you will need a parent or guardian present with valid ID. The studio's age policy may vary by location, so confirm when you book. Avoid scheduling a piercing if you're sick, taking blood thinners, or have an active infection in the area you want pierced.
Rescheduling, cancellations, and refund policies
Maria Tash's cancellation and refund policies are set by each location and may differ. Most studios require cancellation at least 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. If you cancel within that window, you may forfeit a deposit or booking fee. If the studio cancels, any deposit is typically refunded.
If you've already purchased jewelry as part of your appointment, refund policies depend on whether the piece has been altered or customized. Standard pieces may be returnable within a set period; custom or engraved work typically cannot be returned. Confirm the specific policy for your location when you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own jewelry to Maria Tash?
The studio prefers to use its own jewelry to may support material quality and proper fit. If you want to use a piece you own, contact the studio before your appointment to confirm it meets their standards for material and gauge. Most personal jewelry does not meet these requirements.
How long does a piercing take?
The actual piercing takes seconds to a few minutes. Your full appointment, including consultation and jewelry selection, typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour. Cartilage piercings or multiple piercings in one session may take longer.
What if I'm allergic to gold or metals?
Tell the piercer during your consultation. Maria Tash carries medical-grade titanium and platinum, both of which are hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. The studio can recommend the best material for your needs and will use it for your initial jewelry.
Do you pierce minors?
Yes, but age requirements and parental consent policies vary by location. Some locations pierce ages 13 and up with a parent present; others have different age minimums. Contact your local studio to confirm their specific policy before booking.
What if my piercing gets infected after I leave?
Contact the studio when ready. Most infections are minor and respond to proper cleaning and care, but the piercer can advise whether you need medical attention. Do not remove the jewelry unless a doctor tells you to — removing it can trap the infection. The studio may also provide guidance on when to see a healthcare provider.