How do I know what size my piercing is?
At GoldAge, we understand that everyone’s body is unique, and piercers may choose different lengths and gauges based on your anatomy or the type of jewellery you prefer to wear. To help guide you, we’ve provided a list of industry-standard sizes for body jewellery commonly used for each piercing. However, please note that these are general guidelines, and we cannot guarantee that the sizes listed match those used for your specific piercing.
Below, you’ll find the standard gauges and lengths or diameters typically recommended by professional piercers. If you’re unsure about the size of jewellery you need, we strongly recommend consulting your piercer directly by giving them a call or visiting their studio. Your piercer can help ensure you choose the perfect fit for your piercing.
Standard Piercing Sizes
|
Piercing |
Standard Gauge |
Standard Length (mm) |
|
Belly Button / Navel Ring |
14G |
9.5 mm, 11 mm |
|
Nose Piercing |
20G, 18G |
6 mm, 8 mm |
|
Tongue Piercing |
14G |
16 mm |
|
Cartilage Piercings (Helix, Forward Helix, Tragus) |
16G, 18G |
5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm |
|
Eyebrow Piercing |
16G (14G is also commonly used) |
6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm |
|
Industrial Barbell |
14G (16G is also widely used) |
38 mm (varies) |
|
Labret Lip Rings |
14G or 16G |
6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm |
|
Monroe Piercing |
16G |
6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm |
|
Nipple Piercing |
14G |
9.5 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm |
|
Rook / Conch / Daith |
16G, 18G |
5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm |
|
Septum |
14G (16G is also commonly used) |
9.5 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm |
|
Ear Lobe Piercings |
20G or 22G |
- |
Gauge to Millimetres Conversion
Please find conversion charts below for those of you using the metric system.
|
Gauge |
Millimetres |
|
24G |
0.51 mm |
|
22G |
0.64 mm |
|
20G |
0.81 mm |
|
18G |
1.0 mm |
|
16G |
1.2 mm |
|
14G |
1.6 mm |
|
12G |
2.0 mm |
|
10G |
2.5 mm |
|
8G |
3.0 mm |
|
6G |
4.0 mm |
|
4G |
5.0 mm |
|
2G |
6.0 mm |
|
0G |
8.0 mm |
|
00G |
10.0 mm |
What does my size mean?
Gauge – What is a gauge, and what does its number mean?
In jewellery and piercings, gauge refers to the thickness of the jewellery or needle used, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort, proper fit, and healing. The gauge size is a numerical value that corresponds inversely to the thickness of the jewellery—smaller gauge numbers indicate thicker jewellery, while more significant numbers represent thinner pieces. For instance, a 14-gauge (14G) barbell is thicker than a 16-gauge (16G) one. Standard gauge sizes for piercings range from 20G (used for delicate piercings like nostrils) to 14G (popular for cartilage or navel piercings). Choosing the correct gauge is essential for preventing irritation or damage, as too thick jewellery can cause discomfort. At the same time, too thin jewellery may migrate or be less durable.
( Add image for Different Gauges)
Length – What is the length of a piercing jewellery?
The length of piercing jewellery refers to the wearable portion of the jewellery, which is the straight section that passes through the piercing itself. This measurement is typically taken between the two ends or attachments, such as the balls on a barbell or the curved section of a circular barbell. Length is crucial for comfort, healing, and maintaining the integrity of the piercing. Too short jewellery may compress the tissue, causing irritation or preventing proper healing. At the same time, too long jewellery can move excessively, increasing the risk of snagging or irritation. Length is usually measured in millimetres (mm) or inches and varies based on the type of piercing. For example, standard lengths for barbell piercings in the tongue or nipple range from 12mm to 16mm, while labret studs for lip piercings typically range from 6mm to 10mm. Choosing the correct length ensures a secure and comfortable fit tailored to the individual piercing.
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Diameter – What is the diameter of a piercing jewellery?
The diameter of piercing jewellery refers to the measurement of circular or curved jewellery, such as rings, hoops, or circular barbells. It determines how much space the jewellery provides for the piercing. At Goldage, we measure the diameter from the inside edge of the jewellery, known as the inner diameter, to ensure an accurate fit and optimal comfort. This inner diameter measurement is crucial because it affects how the jewellery sits on the skin and accommodates swelling or movement. The diameter is typically measured in millimetres (mm) and varies depending on the type of piercing and its location. For instance, small hoop earrings or nose rings often have inner diameters ranging from 6mm to 10mm, while larger rings for septum or cartilage piercings might range from 10mm to 14mm. Choosing the correct inner diameter ensures the jewellery fits snugly without being too tight or loose, promoting comfort and proper healing.
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Measuring your Piercing Jewellery
How to Measure: Hoops, Captives & Rings at Goldage
Our collection of hoops, captive bead rings (CBRs), seam rings, and clicker rings is designed to suit a wide range of piercings, including ear piercings, cartilage, eyebrow, lip, navel, nose, septum, and nipple piercings. At Goldage, we measure all circular jewellery by the largest inner diameter, ensuring precise sizing for maximum comfort and a perfect fit.
Captive bead rings—CBRs, BCRs, or closure rings—come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, but the measurement principle remains the same: always measure the largest inner diameter of the circle.
We offer various captives, clickers, and seam rings in gauges and inner diameters to accommodate any piercing. If you cannot find the exact size you need, please get in touch with us; we’ll be happy to assist you!
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How to Measure: Straight Barbells at Goldage
Straight barbells are popular for piercings such as nipples, industrials, cartilage, and tongues. To ensure the perfect fit, measure the length of the barbell along the straight section of the bar, between the two balls or ends, as illustrated in the diagram.
At Goldage, we offer a wide selection of straight barbells in various gauges and lengths, allowing you to find the ideal size for your piercing. If you need assistance selecting the proper size, our team is here to help!
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How to Measure: Nose Rings at Goldage
Nose rings, including nostril jewelry, are typically sized at a standard gauge of 18G, with 20G also being popular. Different styles of nose jewellery are measured uniquely:
- Nose screws are measured from the base of the charm or ball to the start of the twist, as shown in the diagram.
- Nose bones are measured from the charm or ball's base to the shaft's end, just before the beaded tip.
- Nose straight- end are measured from the base of the charm or ball to the very end of the stem
At Goldage, we offer a stunning range of nose rings in 18G andg options l nose rings, including diamond optionscrafted from solid 9k and 14k gold, ensuring unparalleled quality and timeless beauty. For more guidance on selecting the perfect nose ring, explore our Nose Piercing & Jewellery Guide or contact us for personalized support!
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How to Measure: Flat-Back Studs at Goldage
Flat-back studs, also known as labrets, are versatile pieces of jewellery commonly used in ear piercings such as lobes, helix, tragus, cartilage, and conch, as well as in lip piercings and around the cheeks or mouth. The flat back ensures a snug and comfortable fit, making it ideal for piercings requiring a close-fitting design.
At Goldage, we measure flat-back studs from the base of the ball or charm to the top of the flat disc. Standard lengths for labrets are approximately 6mm or 8mm, while shorter options like 5mm are typically used for cartilage piercings to provide a secure, snug fit.
Our collection includes labrets in various sizes and handcrafted finishes. Each is made of 9k, 10k, and 14k gold for lasting quality and elegance. Explore our range to find the perfect fit for your piercing!
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How to Measure: Curved Barbells & Navel Rings at Goldage
Curved barbells, also known as bent barbells, are popular for belly button piercings, nipple rings, eyebrow jewellery, rook, daith, and even septum piercings. At Goldage, curved barbells are measured straight across the inner length between the two balls or ends, ensuring precise sizing for a comfortable fit.
Our collection features a wide variety of 9k and 14k gold curved barbells, thoughtfully designed and handcrafted to suit each piercing type. Explore our diverse selection to find the perfect piece for your unique style!
(Show Image of Curved Barbells)
How to Measure Circular/Horseshoe Barbells
Circular or horseshoe barbells are versatile and commonly used for various piercings, including belly rings, septum rings, nipple rings, eyebrow rings, earrings, ear plugs, and genital piercings. To measure a circular barbell, use the largest inside diameter of the ring.
All our circular barbells are crafted from premium 9k and 14k gold and are internally threaded for a secure and comfortable fit.
(Show Image of Circular Barbells)