ASTM International

ASTM International was formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials (or ASTM). It is described as being "known for their high technical quality and market relevancy, ASTM International standards have an important role in the information infrastructure that guides design, manufacturing and trade in the global economy." [1]

Body jewelry is sometimes described as 316LVM ASTM F-138 implant-grade Stainless Steel. The "ASTM F-138" portion of this description refers to a standard for implant-grade steel as established by ASTM International. Implant-grade titanium is referred to as 6AL4V ELI F-136.