📏 Gauge Chart
Gauge (g) measures the thickness of the jewelry post or wire. Higher gauge number = thinner jewelry. Lower gauge = thicker.
| Gauge | mm | Inches | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20g | 0.8mm | 0.032" | Nostril, helix, tragus (thin/delicate) |
| 18g | 1.0mm | 0.040" | Nostril standard, ear cartilage, eyebrow |
| 16g | 1.2mm | 0.047" | Daith, rook, most cartilage, nipple, navel |
| 14g | 1.6mm | 0.062" | Navel standard, tongue, nipple, septum |
| 12g | 2.0mm | 0.078" | Stretched lobes (starting point), industrial |
| 10g | 2.4mm | 0.094" | Stretched lobes |
| 8g | 3.2mm | 0.125" | Stretched lobes |
| 2g | 6.0mm | 0.236" | Stretched lobes |
| 0g | 8.0mm | 0.315" | Stretched lobes |
The "point of no return" for stretching
Most piercers consider 0g (8mm) to be the point at which stretched lobes may not fully close. Below this gauge, stretching is generally reversible with time and care. Above it, permanent alteration is likely.
📐 Length Guide
Post length is the wearable shaft between the disc backing and the jewelry end. Initial jewelry is always longer to accommodate swelling.
| Piercing | Initial Length | Downsized Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earlobe | 8–10mm | 6–7mm | Downsize after swelling resolves, usually 4–8 weeks |
| Helix / Cartilage | 8–10mm | 6–8mm | May need 3–6 months before safe downsize |
| Tragus / Daith | 8mm | 6mm | Tight fit helps prevent snagging during healing |
| Nostril | 8–9mm | 6–7mm | L-shaped or flat-back; downsize reduces bump risk |
| Septum | 8–9mm inner diameter | 7–8mm | Circular barbell or clicker; diameter matters most |
| Tongue | 16–19mm | 12–14mm | Downsize at 2–4 weeks is critical to prevent tooth damage |
| Navel | 10–12mm | 8–10mm | Curved barbell; length depends on anatomy |
⭕ Diameter Guide
Diameter applies to rings, clickers, circular barbells, and captive rings. Measured across the inside of the ring.
| Piercing | Common Diameter | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Septum | 7–9mm | 8mm is most common; anatomy varies significantly |
| Nostril (ring) | 7–8mm | Smaller diameter sits closer; larger hangs lower |
| Helix / Cartilage ring | 8–10mm | Depends on ear anatomy and placement |
| Daith | 8–10mm | Must fit the fold of the ear; measure your anatomy |
| Lip / Labret ring | 8–10mm | Standard is 8mm; larger for lower lip placements |
| Nipple (ring) | 12–16mm | Diameter must exceed the nipple width; measure carefully |
Common Sizing Mistakes
Wearing initial jewelry too long
Leaving long initial jewelry in after swelling resolves causes movement and snagging, extending healing and creating bumps. Downsize with professional help.
Downsizing too early
Switching to shorter jewelry before swelling is fully gone can embed the backing into the tissue. Always wait and confirm with your piercer.
Buying the wrong gauge
Inserting the wrong gauge forces the piercing to stretch or constrict. Always confirm your piercing gauge before ordering replacement jewelry.
Choosing diameter by aesthetics only
A ring that looks good online may not fit your anatomy. Too-small rings cause pressure; too-large rings snag and move. Measure before buying.