jewelry sizing
The right size makes all the difference. Use this guide to find your fit — from flat back posts to cartilage hoops.
Still not sure? Take our 30-second sizing quiz.
Understanding sizing
Flat Back Earrings
Gauge
The thickness of the post. Most piercing jewelry is 16g (1.2mm) or 18g (1.0mm).
Length
The distance from the front piece to the backing. 6mm is the most common length.
| Placement | Length | Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| Helix | 6mm, 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Forward helix | 6mm, 8mm | 18G (1.0mm) |
| Conch | 8mm, 10mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Lobe | 6mm, 8mm | 20G (0.8mm) |
| Tragus | 6mm, 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Daith | 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Nostril | 6mm | 20G (0.8mm) |
Understanding sizing
Cartilage Hoops
Gauge
The thickness of the hoop wire. The most common thicknesses are 18g (1.0mm) or 20g (0.8mm).
Diameter
The inside width of the hoop. 8mm is considered standard.
| Placement | Diameter | Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| Helix | 5 – 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Forward helix | 5 – 8mm | 18G (1.0mm) |
| Conch | 10 – 12mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Lobe | 6 – 8mm | 20G (0.8mm) |
| Rook | 6 – 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Tragus | 5 – 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Daith | 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Nostril | 8 – 10mm | 20G (0.8mm) |
Not sure what size you need?
Your piercer is the best resource — they'll know exactly what needle size was used and what length or diameter will fit best. When in doubt, ask. If you can't reach your piercer, here's how to figure it out at home:
Gauge: Insert a standard earring post through your piercing. If it fits snugly, you're a 20G. If it moves a little, try 18G. If it moves quite a bit, you're likely a 16G.
Length: Insert a standard post and mark where you'd like the jewelry to sit. Remove it and measure that length with a ruler. When in doubt, size up — a little extra length is always better than too little.