Our Piercing Studio

A wide angle photo of the front of the Tribal Expression store. It is displaying the background art behind the desk, as well as the jewellery and piercing certificates.


Tribal Expression is a precision body modification studio located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada since 2003.

We pride ourselves in our highly trained, amazing staff, our advanced sterilization techniques, and aseptic piercing procedures. We provide a variety of services including body piercing, children’s lobe piercing, custom jewelry ordering and crafting, scarification and branding.

Our line of exclusive body jewelry is handmade in-house by our jewelry manufacturing team and goldsmith.


Great New pricing structure


In response to the overwhelming demand from our cherished clients, we are thrilled to announce a significant enhancement to our offerings. Leveraging our manufacturing prowess and capabilities, we have decided to introduce a substantial rebate on our basic titanium threadless with a 2.5mm bead!

✨ Your Voice, Our Action:

We understand the importance of quality and affordability in your choices. With this exciting update, we are combining our manufacturing strength with your preferences to bring you an unbeatable offer.

🎉 What’s New:

as low as $55 including piercing and jewelry, this will cover most standard PIERCING services.

Eg: LOBES, HELIX, TRAGUS, NOSTRIL…..

Enhanced Affordability: Enjoy the same exceptional quality at an even more accessible price point.

Unmatched Craftsmanship: Each piece is meticulously crafted with precision and care, ensuring the highest standards of quality.

Your Perfect Accessory: Whether it’s a subtle addition to your collection or a bold statement piece, our titanium threadless with a 2.5mm bead is versatile and stylish.

🎁 Don’t Miss Out:

This rebate is our way of saying thank you for your continued support and loyalty. It’s time to elevate your style without compromising on quality!

Why get pierced at Tribal?

a photo of tribal expression's piercing room. A comfortable, professional space for body piercing


Tribal Expression Proudly Has 4.9 stars on google with thousands of reviews from happy clients. Take sometime to review these and you will see that we are a kind, caring environment that wants that best for our clients and that we will do our best ensure your success and happiness with your new piercing.

Tribal Expression has had the pleasure of offering body piercings, dermal anchors, scarification, branding, and custom body jewelry manufacturing to the Calgary market for over 20yrs.

We are even one of the few shops in the world where you can watch your individual sterilization process be done right before your eyes.

Tribal proudly offers individual sterilization for each procedure we preform, we utilize a Statim 5000 sterilizer allowing us to safely and quickly sterilize each person’s , tools, disposable needle, and jewelry.

Tribal Expression is a family-owned corporation and is a firm believer in old-school business practices including taking care of our customers and quality workmanship.


Tribal News

Discover exceptional savings with our Prepay Gift Cards – enjoy a 20% discount!

Responding to the rising costs in Calgary, we bring you a fantastic opportunity to save on your favorite jewelry pieces or piercings. Whether you choose in-store pickup or opt for convenient shipping, your order can be ready for use the very next day.

Click here to purchase 20% off prepaid gift cards

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Tribal Expression brand ambassador Program

Are you interested in being a brand Ambassador for Tribal Expression?

Free jewelry and swag, help promote safe piercing and High end locally produced body jewelry. Click below to apply.

Our Jewelry


Tribal Made‘s main facility is located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada – which is dedicated to the Tribal jewellery line. Within our facility, we employ four goldsmiths, a machinist, a master polisher and support staff. Some of the tools we have are a, BRAND NEW 2021 Swiss turn CNC lathe, 1.9 Ton CNC Mill with a 10 Turret Tool Changer; a High-Speed Mini CNC Mill with a 30,000 RPM spindle; a CNC Lathe with a Four Turret Tool Changer; a Laser Engraver; and more.

Our newest asset is an in-house 3D wax printer, allowing us to do rapid production of gold cast jewellery both with and without stones.

We use a Ti-6Al-4V Titanium raw material production facility that uses ASTM-F136 Mill Certification and we do random SGS lab testing on material and jewellery (to match mill cert data & ASTM-f136).

Did you know that we have a online store? where you can support Tribal, Get deals on over stock items, Support Canadian Goldsmiths!!!!


Jewelry Crafting


For 19 + yrs, Tribal Expression has had full-time, custom-trained goldsmiths on site who have been an integral part of our family business, allowing us to create new custom styles, unique nickel-free alloys, affordable prices and most importantly; allows us to support our local artisans.

Tribal currently has 4 full-time goldsmiths working for us, this allows us to keep our prices competitive, have items in stock all the time and to create new fun designs


Our Piercings


Welcome to Tribal Expression: Pioneering Body Piercing in Western Canada Since 1993

For nearly two decades, Tribal Expression has stood as the preeminent body piercing studio in Western Canada, offering a unique and soothing approach to body piercing that we fondly refer to as the “tribal way.” Since our establishment in 1993, we’ve crafted an environment where precision, serenity, and a touch of the tribal spirit converge to create an unforgettable piercing experience.

Over 225,000 Served and Counting:
With pride and gratitude, we’ve had the privilege of serving over 225,000 clients with our exceptional piercing services. We are dedicated to not only crafting beautiful piercings but also ensuring that every client feels at ease, embracing the true essence of the piercing journey.

Keith Kennedy: Shaping a Legacy:
At the core of Tribal Expression’s success lies the expertise of Keith Kennedy. He honed his piercing style through immersive training seminars at Gauntlet in San Francisco during the early 90s. Keith’s intimate exposure to Gauntlet’s main office and his first hand experiences at their Castro shop profoundly influenced the evolution of Tribal Expression. These encounters have played an integral role in shaping the distinctive studio we’ve become today.

An Artisan Apprenticeship:
Central to our commitment to excellence is our rigorous apprenticeship program. This program embodies the essence of the “Tribal way” and ensures its continuation through the generations of our piercers. This apprenticeship is not merely a formality; it’s a journey that takes years to complete, as we believe in fostering a deep understanding of our unique approach to piercing.

Join the Tribal Experience:
We invite you to step into the realm of Tribal Expression – a haven where the artistry of piercing and the tranquility of the “tribal way” converge. With a legacy spanning decades, we continue to redefine the piercing experience, marrying precision with relaxation and infusing each encounter with the tribal spirit that sets us apart.

Discover piercing as an art, a journey, and a statement of self-expression. Tribal Expression – where the past shapes the present and piercings become an exquisite experience.


Our Sterilization

Discover the Gold Standard in Sterilization at Tribal Expression

tribal expression sterilization room

Did you know that at Tribal Expression, we prioritize your safety and well-being above all else? That’s why we’ve taken the extra steps to ensure that every piercing experience with us is held to the highest standard of sterilization.

Uncompromising Individual Sterilization:
Unlike many others, we believe in going the extra mile for your safety. Each and every piercing we perform undergoes individual sterilization. Why? Because we know that this meticulous approach significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination and ensures the safest environment for invasive procedures.

Cutting-Edge Autoclaves for Swift Sterilization:
Our cutting-edge autoclaves are designed to provide rapid yet thorough sterilization. What does this mean for you? It means that your single-use needle, jewelry, and tools are meticulously sterilized and go directly from the autoclave to you. This innovative approach guarantees that you’re receiving the highest level of cleanliness and safety.

Dedicated Sterilization Technicians:
At Tribal Expression, we leave no room for compromise. We take pride in having dedicated sterilization technicians working full-time in our state-of-the-art processing room. This commitment to excellence ensures unwavering consistency and adherence to both our stringent protocols and Health Board regulations. Your safety is our priority, and our professionals are here to guarantee it.

Elevating Sterilization Beyond Expectations:
Our commitment to your safety doesn’t stop at meeting regulations – it surpasses them. Tribal Expression’s Sterilization processing is not only AHS approved but also goes above and beyond the standards set for personal services. In fact, our processes are modeled closely after medical standards, exemplifying our dedication to providing you with the best.

Redefining Sterility with In-House Biological Testing:
We take your safety so seriously that we’ve integrated in-house biological testing for our autoclaves. This rigorous testing, approved by AHS, ensures that our sterilization processes maintain true sterility. What’s more, our fast (2-hour) testing allows us to assess our autoclaves more frequently than Health Board requirements. This level of vigilance sets us apart and reinforces our unwavering commitment to your safety.

Experience piercing with unparalleled sterility and professionalism – experience Tribal Expression. Your safety is our passion, and we’re proud to lead the way in ensuring the cleanest, safest, and most reliable piercing environment possible.

Our tribal webstore


Elevate your style with meticulously crafted, hand-polished jewelry, proudly made in Canada. Welcome to Tribal Expression’s online webstore, your premier destination for exquisite, handcrafted piercing jewelry of unparalleled quality.

 

Discover the allure of artisanal craftsmanship and impeccable attention to detail when you choose our hand-polished jewelry pieces. Each item is a testament to the artistry that goes into creating stunning adornments right here in Canada.

At Tribal Expression, we’re committed to offering you a seamless shopping experience that not only enhances your style but also respects your budget. Unlike others, we don’t charge extra for titanium posts; simply select your desired bead, with a minimum $30 value, and enjoy the luxury of high-grade materials.

Our webstore is a treasure trove of treasures waiting to be explored. Here, you’ll find not only the latest designs but also exclusive deals on overstock and older stock items. Keep an eye out for our frequent BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) promotions, allowing you to expand your collection without breaking the bank.

Experience the difference of handcrafted excellence, shop with us at Tribal Expression’s online webstore today.



Introducing Opulence: Elevating Elegance and Craftsmanship in Inglewood

We’re thrilled to unveil an exciting new chapter at Tribal Expression – the grand opening of our second jewelry and piercing studio, “Opulence.” Nestled in the heart of Inglewood, our new brand is a celebration of exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance that will resonate with your true essence.

Experience Handcrafted Excellence:
Opulence is dedicated to redefining luxury through locally crafted, handpicked body jewelry and earrings. Our curated collections feature the finest materials – solid 14kt, 18kt, and platinum – adorned with genuine gemstones. Each piece is a masterpiece, designed to complement your unique beauty and style.

Curated Beauty, Limited Editions:
Discover the allure of our collection-based store, where every piece is meticulously designed with a limited number of stones, ensuring exclusivity and unparalleled attention to detail. Our gemstones are thoughtfully selected and harmoniously coordinated, resulting in jewelry that resonates with your inner elegance.

Embrace Your True Essence:
Opulence is more than jewelry; it’s a feeling. Our knowledgeable jewelry consultants and piercing curators invite you to indulge in an experience that resonates with your authentic self. Sip on a drink while exploring our current collections, each a testament to the dedication and passion we’ve poured into this brand.

A Journey Years in the Making:
For the past two years, we’ve kept a secret, a vision meticulously crafted even amid the challenges of Covid. We secured a lease in the prime location of 9th Ave and 10th St SE, across from Bite and the Hose and Hound. This prestigious space is poised to become the home of Opulence, where craftsmanship and elegance intertwine.

Now Open:
Opulence is please to be taking appointments :)

Heirloom Legacy, Cherished Moments:
Opulence transcends time with our heirloom jewelry collection, designed as an investment to pass down through generations. Imagine the joy of gifting your granddaughter or great-granddaughter a piece that tells a story, a piece that you also adorn. These treasures carry the weight of memories, making them more than jewelry – they’re an embodiment of cherished moments.

Join us at Opulence:
If the allure of heirloom jewelry resonates with you, don’t miss our Heirloom collection. And if you’re dreaming of a custom piece to create your own legacy, we’re here to make that vision a reality.

Step into a world of handcrafted elegance, where every piece reflects your inner radiance. Opulence by Tribal Expression – your journey to true self-expression begins here.

We Also Sell Jewelry From Other Top End Jewellers

Our Wonderful Clients

Tribal Expression
4.8
Based on 1700 reviews
powered by Google
Marsden Ashe
Marsden Ashe
23:46 22 Jul 22
Absolutely fantastic service! Everybody who helped me today at the studio was friendly and personable, as well as... informative and professional. I’m very pleased with my piercing, and getting it done was a great experience. It was clearly that the piercing artist—Leona—in addition to being skillful in her work, enjoys and takes pride in it. I felt quite comfortable, respected and heard during the entire process and overall enjoyed my visit. I’ll definitely be headed back for any work I need done.Lastly: the stud I purchased was one of the pieces from their in-house gold jewellery line, and I’m very happy with it. I would really encourage anybody getting a new piercing (or other modification) to check out their house line of jewellery, in addition to the other stuff they bring in.read more
Amy Vassberg
Amy Vassberg
20:48 24 Jun 22
First review: Hailey was the best, fast, clean and friendly service! Thank you so much, I love my new piercing and I... will be back.Awesome experience.Second review: I can't imagine going anywhere else for a piercing, this shop is clean, friendly and has a great quality in their jewelry! Keith was so kind, fun and personable. He took the time to really make sure that my piercing sat perfectly and shared in my excitement. Thank you Keith I absolutely adore the piercing and the little bee sitting on my ear :) !read more
Alicia Rimad
Alicia Rimad
22:51 12 May 22
My experience at Tribal was really pleasant! Emery explained everything thoroughly and answered all my questions while... still be very friendly. I felt at ease going into the piercing and very happy after. I love my new nose piercing!! You helped make something I've been waiting years to do, happen!! Thank you so muchread more
Mackenzie S
Mackenzie S
22:21 03 May 22
Eddie was very professional and extremely helpful. I was still debating between two similar piercings and he helped me... choose what one would be more suited for my anatomy and addressed my concerns. I ended up going with the option that he had only done a few times but I wouldn’t have been able to tell if he didn’t tell me himself as he was not only able to get the perfect placement but the perfect alignment really quick. Very pleasant experience!The people at the counter were just as helpful when it came to picking out jewelry and paying. I would definitely suggest this location!read more
Randi Wilson
Randi Wilson
21:00 12 Apr 22
Really great explanation of the process and considerate of my apprehension even though this was my third nostril... piercing. Felt very comfortable and also was able to relate on a more personal yet professional level. Just an awesome experience. ?% would recommend. Thanks for being a good human. Love the rest of you as well!read more
Trinity Richter
Trinity Richter
21:31 08 Apr 22
Deanna is absolutely incredible!! So knowledgeable, friendly and super high energy. Can tell she’s truly passionate... about her work. She was so diligent and took her time perfecting the markings on my ear lobes to ensure they were as symmetrical as possible before proceeding with the physical piercings and they turned out amazing. Will definitely come back to see her again in the future! :) The entire staff at Tribal were incredibly warm and welcoming the moment I stepped in. I will continue recommending this place to all my peers!read more
Lucy R
Lucy R
23:52 02 Jan 22
My 10 year old daughter got her ears pierced today, and we had such an amazing experience! The shop is clearly run in a... very precise and professional way, from the front end staff to everyone else we encountered. Everyone was so kind and accommodating, and I had no doubt we were in good hands. Hailey did the piercing, and I do not have enough nice things to say about her. She was so kind and lovely, and extremely professional and informative. She took as much time as she needed to get the markings on my daughter’s ears absolutely perfect, with complete precision and evident experience. I was so impressed with her skill, and it was very clear that she takes pride in her work. She is an absolute star, and because of her, my daughter had a wonderful piercing experience. Thank you so much Hailey, and everyone else at Tribal Expression!read more
Rochelle Jones
Rochelle Jones
03:52 19 Nov 21
Nothing but amazing. Both the front end and the piercer. Very welcoming and such a safe place to be. I felt... comfortable. Best piercer I’ve ever had and will be going back to be pierced by Deanna. It was painless and quick. All while still looking really really good. I honestly couldn’t have asked for anything better.read more
Shailynn Zaetl
Shailynn Zaetl
01:46 19 Oct 21
I have wanted a septum piercing for a long time and this birthday was the time to do it. I booked online which was... super easy. Everyone I interacted with was nice, courteous & professional. Great selection of jewellery and front end staff was knowledgeable about what to show me after I disclosed my metal allergy. Tribal was recommended to me by a couple people I trust and they didn’t let me down. Quite happy.read more
Emily C
Emily C
19:26 16 Oct 21
So amazing! The shop was so busy today and I understood that everyone was quite busy but Eddie was great! Did not rush... at all but was efficient. Super clear and I really appreciated how well he prepared me for the different times he would touch my ear. Staff at the front was so helpful and patient. Thank you so much for accommodating my friend and I. Will definitely be back! :)read more
Michelle Vu
Michelle Vu
20:51 04 Oct 21
I received two ear piercings by Deanna-Mae and she was absolutely professional and wonderful! The piercings were done... quickly and skillfully. She's so quick, I barely had time to register I just got pierced! I'd recommend her to anyone looking to get pierced. The front desk staff are also very lovely. Tori is an absolute gem! I also appreciate the high quality jewelry selection they have at Tribal Expressions.read more
Miss Ky
Miss Ky
20:05 25 Sep 21
I went in for a piercing, not 100% sure what I wanted. The ladies at the front were extremely helpful. They helped me... pick out the best jewelry for what I was getting. Deanna used her professional eye to give me the most esthetically pleasing piercing, working with what I already have. She was very gentle and made me feel extremely comfortable. I loved what she did. Overall, my experience was fantastic from the minute I walked in. Thank you so much Tribal Expression team!read more
Jehn Scantlebury
Jehn Scantlebury
20:23 13 Sep 21
I took my daughter to see Dee for a nose piercing recently. The shop was very clean, staff were friendly and welcoming,... and they did a great job of explaining everything throughout the process. Dee made my young daughter feel very at ease and relaxed. The piercing looks perfect and is healing great so far!Many years ago at another shop Dee did several of my own body piercings. I still have a few of them 18+ years later and have never had any problems. Highly recommend Dee and Tribal Expression for people of any age!read more
Jennifer Roycroft
Jennifer Roycroft
15:53 20 Aug 21
Deanna was really great! She helped me through getting the piercing even though I was nervous. She was patient and... attentive and encouraged me to lay down when she saw I was feeling woozy. She took time to make sure the placement was really nice. She walked me through the process and let me know what was happening the whole time. Really reassuring for me! Loving my new look!read more
Jordan Adams
Jordan Adams
23:08 05 Aug 21
Loved everything about coming here! Front desk staff was super nice and helpful. Their selection of jewelry is... extensive and all very nice. It was a little overwhelming to pick from so many options, but the staff helped me narrow down.Hailey is a great piercer. She is very nice and made sure I was comfortable. She explained everything as she did it, which was great because I have not been pierced in 10+ years. The actual piercing process was quick and easy. Everything was very clean and sanitary. Will definitely be coming back for any future piercings I get!read more
Gabriella Bragoli
Gabriella Bragoli
00:17 26 Jul 21
I’ve come to tribal expressions a few times for piercings and i have always had the absolute best experience! everyone... is incredibly nice and knowledgeable from the moment you walk in the door. any question i had was answered so clearly and they really take the time to make sure you’re comfortable. also, the sanitation!! everything in the shop is constantly being cleaned, sanitized, and sterilized. it made me feel so incredibly safe to be getting pierced there seeing how seriously they take their sanitation. and lastly, their open inclusion and support of the LGBTQ2S+ community was reallygreat to see and, again, made me feel very safe and accepted. thank you so much!!read more
Chelsea D
Chelsea D
21:03 22 Jul 21
I had such an amazing time for my first piercing experience. From the moment I stepped in to the studio, to when I... left, I felt very catered to. Each employee was super friendly and they were so patient in giving me information on the different piercings. As for the piercing experience it was amazing! Hailey was so great and she made me feel so at ease. She was very knowledgeable and kind and gave very clear instructions for what to expect during the process as well as my aftercare. I would highly recommend this place and can’t wait to go back for more!read more
The Szaboteur
The Szaboteur
23:03 13 Jul 21
This is the second time I've seen Hailey, and I would recommend her to anyone looking to get poked. She's really sweet,... awesome at her job, and most importantly made me feel super comfortable and relaxed throughout the whole process. Even when I wasn't feeling well after, she took really good care of me until I was ready to get up and leave. Will definitely be coming back and seeing her next time I plan to get a piercing.read more
Sasha Anguelkova
Sasha Anguelkova
20:19 05 Jul 21
I just got my nostril pierced today. I was extremely nervous because I don't do well with pain. Eddie was... knowledgeable, understanding and explained everything in great detail. I barely felt anything, and my piercing is AMAZING!The front desk staff are great as well. The studio is as clean as a hospital if not more!Fantastic!Fantastic experience! Thank you Eddie and Tribal!read more
Kelly Neilson
Kelly Neilson
01:19 29 Jun 21
I’ve been coming to Tribal Expression for the last decade and I’ll be continuing for the next decade! I love this... place. Everyone is extremely professional and friendly, and they are all very knowledgeable if you have any questions or concerns, from the front staff to the piercers. Every piercing I have gotten here is very well done and I have had no issues! I especially love the pride they take in their sanitation and cleanliness. I trust the lovely people at TE with all my piercing needs, no hesitation!read more
Roger Walker
Roger Walker
00:31 10 Jun 21
This is my go to place for piercings and all fashion items related to piercings with very friendly and knowledgeable... staff.Who is it that decided that "excellent" is the highest rating possible to give??I think that it should be higher at awesome.This was not just another awesome visit but first time ever I got recognized by a social media fan/follower.I love the place lots especially the knowledge and professionalism of the staffread more
Kevin Vo
Kevin Vo
01:02 24 Apr 21
Danielle was absolutely wonderful! It was my first time at Tribal Expression and was recommended by a friend. I got a... helix ear piercing done. Danielle was very personable and friendly! She is very professional and explained the whole procedure thoroughly prior to and after as well. She explained step by step during the procedure which put me at ease and I knew what to expect. It was a pleasure to have worked with Danielle. Thank you for making my experience pleasant, I love my piercing!read more
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