A Guide to Body Jewellery Gauges
Ella Reid 31 March 2023
HOW TO MEASURE EAR AND BODY JEWELLERY: COMPLETE SIZING & GAUGE GUIDE
Whether you're shopping for a new piercing or upgrading your current jewellery, understanding how body jewellery is measured is essential. At Essential Beauty Shop, we want you to feel confident choosing the perfect piece for your piercing. In this guide, we’ll break down how jewellery gauges work, how to measure hoops and hinged rings, and tips for achieving the best fit.
Gauge Breakdown by Jewellery Type
20 Gauge (0.8mm):
Our thinnest option, most suitable for nose and earlobe piercings. This gauge is often used in initial piercings for its subtle appearance and minimal discomfort.
18 Gauge (1.0mm):
Common for ear piercings, especially lobes, helix, forward helix, tragus, conch, and nostril. It strikes a balance between comfort and durability, making it a popular choice.
16 Gauge (1.2mm):
A popular choice for various placements, including helix, rook, daith, tragus, conch, lip, vertical labret, eyebrow, and septum piercings. It offers more durability and is ideal for long-term wear.
14 Gauge (1.6mm):
Our thickest standard gauge. Best suited for tongue, nipple, belly, and industrial ear piercings. The thicker size makes it suitable for high-movement areas where extra strength is needed.
Choosing the correct gauge is not just for aesthetics. Wearing jewellery in the incorrect gauge can cause irritation, migration, or even piercing rejection. Always stick to the original size you were pierced with or consult a professional before switching gauges.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Hinged Rings
Hoop and hinged rings are popular for nose, ear, and cartilage piercings, but getting the right size is key to both comfort and style. All of our hinged rings are measured by internal diameter, so knowing how to measure accurately will help you select the best fit.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Use a flexible measuring tape or a piece of string and a ruler for precision.
Step 2: Decide on Your Desired Fit
Do you prefer a snug look or a looser fit with some dangle? This will determine how far the ring should hang from the piercing.
Step 3: Measure the Internal Diameter
Hold the tape or string next to your piercing hole and measure straight across the area where the ring will sit. Avoid pulling too tightly against the skin.
Step 4: Consider the Jewellery Style
Different styles of jewellery, such as hoops, studs, or segment rings, sit differently in the piercing. Make sure the diameter accommodates the shape and style you’re choosing.
Step 5: Factor in Swelling and Healing
If your piercing is still healing, leave a little extra space to account for swelling. Once fully healed, you can switch to a tighter, more flush-fitting ring.
Step 6: Shop by Internal Diameter
When shopping at Essential Beauty, all hinged and hoop rings are listed by internal diameter, available in multiple gauge sizes, metals, and colours. These rings are compatible with our beautiful range of piercing charms, allowing you to update your style regularly.
Why Measuring Correctly Matters
Choosing the right jewellery size improves both comfort and healing. Incorrect sizing can lead to prolonged swelling, irritation, or even piercing rejection. For new piercings, always follow professional advice and stick to the recommended downsizing timeline once initial swelling has gone down.
If your jewellery feels too loose or too tight, it may not only affect healing but can also influence the way your jewellery sits. Proper sizing ensures your jewellery looks great and fits securely, reducing the risk of snags or discomfort.
Downsizing: When and Why, You Should
Once the initial swelling has reduced, your piercer will recommend downsizing your jewellery. This involves replacing the longer labret or post used during the initial healing phase with a shorter piece for a neater, more comfortable fit.
Typical downsizing timelines include:
- Ear lobes and tongue piercings: 6 to 8 weeks
- Cartilage and facial piercings: 8 to 12 weeks
- Navel and genital piercings: 8 to 12 weeks
Leaving the initial long post in for too long can cause the piercing to shift or develop bumps. Downsizing supports better healing and improves the overall appearance and comfort of your piercing.
Jewellery Types and Their Impact on Fit
Each jewellery type sits differently in the piercing and may require different sizing considerations:
- Labret studs: Ideal for flat, flush placement on ears and lips.
- Barbells: Common in tongue, industrial, and nipple piercings.
- Hoops and rings: Best measured by internal diameter for a clean, snug look.
- Hinged rings: Easy to use and ideal for frequent jewellery changes.
Make sure to factor in your piercing's location, anatomy, and healing stage when choosing a jewellery type.
Expert Advice When You Need It
If you’re ever unsure about what gauge or size is right for you, don’t guess. Visit an Essential Beauty salon and speak with one of our professional piercing experts. They can assess your piercing, recommend appropriate jewellery, and even assist with safe downsizing or jewellery changes.
Understanding how to measure ear and body jewellery is essential for both comfort and healing. Whether it’s gauge size or internal diameter, getting it right helps avoid complications and ensures your jewellery looks its best. By choosing the correct size and style, you support healthy healing and make sure your piercing stands out for all the right reasons.
Check out our how to measure jewellery guide for more information on specific jewellery types and anatomy.
Ready to upgrade your piercing? Explore our full jewellery range at Essential Beauty Shop today and find your perfect fit!
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