Sizing Guide

Sizing Guide for Piercing Jewelry
Welcome to our piercing jewelry sizing guide! Choosing the correct size for your piercing jewelry is crucial for comfort, healing, and style. This guide will help you understand the key measurements—gauge, length/diameter, and ball/end size—and how to select the perfect fit for your piercing.
Understanding Piercing Jewelry Measurements

Piercing jewelry is measured in three main ways:
  1. Gauge (Thickness): The thickness of the jewelry’s post or bar, measured in gauge (G) or millimeters (mm). Common gauges range from 22G (thinner) to 8G (thicker).
  2. Length/Diameter: The wearable length of a barbell (e.g., for tongue or nipple piercings) or the inner diameter of a hoop (e.g., for septum or cartilage piercings), measured in millimeters or inches.
  3. Ball/End Size: The size of the decorative ends (e.g., balls, gems, or charms), typically measured in millimeters.


Gauge Conversion Chart
Gauge sizes can be confusing. Use this chart to convert between gauge (G) and millimeters (mm):
Gauge (G)
Millimeters (mm)
22G
0.6mm
20G
0.8mm
18G
1.0mm
16G
1.2mm
14G
1.6mm
12G
2.0mm
10G
2.5mm


 

Common Piercing Types and Recommended Sizes

Here’s a quick reference for popular piercing types. Always consult with your professional piercer for personalized advice, especially for new or healing piercings.
Piercing Type
Gauge
Length/Diameter
Ball/End Size
Earlobe
20G–18G
6–10mm (barbell), 8–12mm (hoop)
2–5mm
Cartilage/Helix
18G–16G
6–8mm (barbell), 6–10mm (hoop)
3–4mm
Nostril
20G–18G
6–8mm (stud), 8–10mm (hoop)
1.5–3mm
Septum
18G–16G
8–12mm (hoop)
3–5mm
Lip/Labret
16G–14G
6–10mm (barbell)
3–4mm
Tongue
14G
14–16mm (barbell)
5–6mm
Nipple
14G–12G
12–16mm (barbell)
4–6mm
Navel
14G
10–12mm (barbell)
5–8mm
Note: Sizes vary based on anatomy, piercing age, and personal preference. New piercings may require longer lengths to accommodate swelling.


How to Measure Your Piercing

To find the right size, follow these steps or consult your piercer:
  1. Check Your Current Jewelry:
    • If you have jewelry that fits well, remove it and measure the gauge (using a gauge wheel or caliper) and length/diameter (using a ruler or caliper).
    • For hoops, measure the inner diameter (not the outer circumference).
  2. Measure Your Piercing:
    • For barbells, measure the distance between the piercing holes (not including the ends).
    • For hoops, measure the inner diameter needed to comfortably fit around the piercing.
  3. Consider Comfort:
    • Choose slightly longer barbells for new piercings to allow for swelling.
    • Ensure hoops are large enough to move freely but not so large they snag.


Tips for Choosing the Right Jewelry
  • Material Matters: Opt for body-safe materials like implant-grade titanium, 14k/18k gold, or surgical steel to reduce irritation, especially for sensitive skin or healing piercings.
  • Anatomy Varies: Everyone’s body is unique. What fits one person may not fit another, so always measure carefully.
  • Healing Piercings: Use longer jewelry during healing to accommodate swelling. Switch to a snugger fit only after the piercing is fully healed (consult your piercer for timing).
  • Style Preferences: Larger decorative ends or charms may require a slightly larger gauge or length for balance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my jewelry is too tight or too loose?
A: Tight jewelry may cause irritation, swelling, or embedding. Loose jewelry may snag or move excessively. Consult your piercer if you’re unsure.Q: Can I change my jewelry size after my piercing heals?
A: Yes, but wait until the piercing is fully healed (typically 6–12 weeks for most piercings, longer for cartilage or navel). Always use clean hands and sterile jewelry.Q: What if I don’t know my piercing’s size?
A: Visit a professional piercer to measure your piercing or current jewelry. Avoid guessing to prevent discomfort or injury.