ROOK PIERCING GUIDE
what is a rook piercing?
A rook piercing sits in the upper ridge of the inner ear, just above the tragus. It’s a striking cartilage placement that can be styled with either a curved barbell or a small ring that follows the ear’s natural shape.
This piercing adds beautiful structure and visual interest to your stack — whether you opt for a single rook or a faux rook, it’s sure to turn heads.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of rook piercings, pricing, the procedure, pain and healing time, aftercare, and styling inspiration.
single rook
A single rook piercing passes directly through the natural fold of cartilage in the upper inner ear. The shape of this area allows for a variety of jewellery styles, though most clients choose a curved barbell or delicate ring for a clean, sculptural finish.
This piercing sits discreetly when viewed from the front but reveals its detail at certain angles — a subtle design with major impact.
faux rook
The faux rook offers the same aesthetic as a traditional rook piercing, but with a simpler placement. Instead of piercing through the full cartilage fold, this variation passes through the tissue just above the ridge, allowing for a flat-back stud rather than a barbell or ring.
It’s ideal for clients whose ear anatomy doesn’t allow for a true rook piercing but still want the look and balance it brings to an ear stack.
rook piercing procedure
Your piercer will begin by sterilising the ear with a medical-grade solution before carefully marking the placement, taking into account your anatomy, jewellery preferences, and overall ear curation.
The piercing is performed using a sterile, single-use 18-gauge needle — never a piercing gun or pressure device, as these can cause trauma and increase infection risk. Using a needle ensures precision, minimal discomfort, and a smoother healing process.
Once complete, your chosen jewellery will be installed securely. All Covetear piercing jewellery is engineered for comfort, safety, and style — designed to be worn throughout healing and well beyond.
Your new rook piercing is then ready to debut.
Pain and healing time
Pain Guide: 10/10
A rook piercing is often considered one of the more intense piercings due to its thicker cartilage and the curved angle required for the needle. While the sensation is sharp, it’s brief — and the result is well worth it.
Healing time: approximately 3–6 months
Here’s what to expect throughout healing:
First 72 hours: Mild swelling, redness, warmth, and light bleeding are normal.
Weeks 2–4: Some pulsing and clear discharge that dries into a crust are common. Avoid touching or rotating the jewellery.
Weeks 5–12: Discomfort should subside, but internal healing is still ongoing. Avoid friction or pressure from hair, headphones, or sleeping positions. At this stage, your piercer may recommend downsizing your post to assist with healing.
3 months and beyond: Continue with your aftercare routine and avoid changing jewellery before at least 16 weeks (4 months) to prevent irritation or scarring.
If your jewellery is removed without replacement, the piercing can begin to close within hours — always keep jewellery in place to preserve your piercing.
Aftercare
Cartilage piercings require consistent care, and the rook is no exception. With the right aftercare routine, your piercing will heal beautifully and remain irritation-free.
Covetear clients enjoy unlimited complimentary Aftercare Appointments, where our piercers provide guidance, product recommendations, and professional assessments as you heal.
Follow these essential steps:
- Do not touch your piercing unnecessarily. Always wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or handling.
- Clean with NeilMed™ Piercing Aftercare Spray. Hold 3–6cm away and spray both front and back. Use a clean cotton tip to remove any residue or dried discharge.
- Pat completely dry. Avoid cotton buds, tissues, or anything that may leave fibres behind.
- Clean twice daily for 6–8 weeks, then once daily thereafter. Avoid sleeping on your piercing to reduce swelling or irritation.
Pro tip: When washing your hair, gently rinse the area with a removable shower head to remove shampoo or conditioner before applying your aftercare spray. Product build-up can delay healing or cause irritation.
is your piercing infected?
Here's what to do - The serious stuff
The rook piercing sits in a sensitive area of the ear, so careful aftercare is essential. Avoid playing with the jewellery or allowing it to snag on hair or clothing.
If you experience sudden or excessive swelling, ongoing bleeding, coloured discharge (yellow, green, or dark), or red streaking, contact us immediately for professional advice.
We are available seven days a week for aftercare support. However, if infection is suspected, please see a doctor promptly, as untreated infections can escalate quickly.
TIME TO STYLE!
The rook piercing offers endless styling opportunities — from refined minimalism to bold statement pieces.
For something delicate, try the 14K Solid Gold Petit Diamond Barbell. If you prefer a more sculptural look, the 14K Solid Gold Pavé Diamond Clicker Ring brings elegance with a hint of rebellion.
Explore our Rook Piercing Collection to find jewellery that complements your anatomy and style.
Unsure on what jewellery to add into your Rook piercing?
Check out our curated Rook Piercing Collection for our favourites!
rook Collection
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Petite Clicker Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $170.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Petite Clicker Ring
14K White Gold / SingleRegular price From $175.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Dot Dash Clicker Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $285.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Dotty Seamless Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $235.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Pave' Diamond Clicker Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $410.00Regular priceUnit price per
WANT MORE?
Looking to get some more piercings but not sure where to start? Here are our favourite piercing combos for a Rook piercing!
piercing and styling appointments
Ready to elevate your stack with a rook piercing? Book an appointment at one of our Covetear studios and experience expert precision in a relaxed, luxurious setting.
If you’re uncertain about placement or styling, our Deluxe Piercing Experience and Ear Curation Appointments offer tailored one-on-one consultations to design a look that’s uniquely yours.