Choosing body jewelry can feel overwhelming when you see words like gauge, length, diameter, and fit. This guide breaks everything down in simple language so anyone—beginner or experienced—can find jewelry that fits comfortably and looks great. Check out our post on finding the right style body jewelry!
1. What Is Gauge? (Thickness of the Jewelry)
Gauge refers to how thick the jewelry post is.
The smaller the number, the thicker the jewelry.
Common sizes by piercing:
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Earlobe: 20G–18G
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Cartilage: 16G
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Nostril: 20G–18G
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Lip / Labret: 16G
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Belly Button: 14G
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Tongue: 14G
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Nipple: 14G
Keeping the original gauge helps your piercing stay healthy.
2. What Is Length? (For Studs, Bars & Labrets)
Length is the straight bar distance between the two ends of the jewelry.
Examples:
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Lip / Labret studs: 6–10 mm
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Tongue bars: 14–16 mm
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Eyebrow barbells: 8–10 mm
A correct length should:
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sit flush against your skin
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not dig into your piercing
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not move excessively
3. What Is Diameter? (For Hoops & Rings)
Diameter is the inside-to-inside width of a ring.
Common diameter sizes:
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Nose hoops: 8–10 mm
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Cartilage hoops: 6–10 mm
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Lip rings: 8–12 mm
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Nipple rings: 12–16 mm
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Belly rings: 10 mm
The right diameter depends on:
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the placement of your piercing
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the thickness of your tissue
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how tight or loose you want the ring to sit
4. Materials That Affect Fit
Some materials feel lighter or heavier, which can change how jewelry sits:
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Titanium: light, hypoallergenic, great for sensitive skin
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Surgical steel: durable, budget-friendly
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Gold: stylish and gentle
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Bioflex / PTFE: flexible for comfort
People with sensitive skin often prefer titanium or bioflex.
5. How to Measure Your Body Jewelry at Home
If you don’t know your size, you can measure using:
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a small ruler
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a caliper (more accurate)
For Studs (Length)
Measure the straight bar portion only.
For Hoops (Diameter)
Measure from the inside edge straight across to the opposite inside edge.
For Gauge
Compare with another known-size jewelry or ask a piercer.
6. Quick Size Chart Cheat Sheet
| Piercing Area | Common Gauge | Typical Length / Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| Nose | 20G–18G | 6–7 mm stud, 8–10 mm hoop |
| Lip | 16G | 6–10 mm labret, 8–12 mm hoop |
| Cartilage | 16G | 6–8 mm stud, 8–10 mm hoop |
| Belly | 14G | 10 mm bar |
| Tongue | 14G | 14–16 mm bar |
| Eyebrow | 16G | 8–10 mm bar |
| Nipple | 14G | 12–16 mm bar or ring |
Understanding body jewelry sizing helps you choose pieces that look amazing and feel comfortable all day.
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