Choosing the right size jewelry for a cartilage piercing can feel confusing, especially when you see so many numbers like 6mm, 8mm, 16G, and 18G.
This guide breaks down the standard ear piercing size in mm, the best hoop sizes for cartilage, and the most common measurements used by piercers.
1. What Gauge Is Used for Most Cartilage Piercings?
The gauge is the thickness of the earring post.
For cartilage piercings, the most common gauges are:
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16G (1.2mm) — the standard for helix, forward helix, tragus, rook
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18G (1.0mm) — sometimes used for upper lobe or thinner cartilage
If you're wondering what gauge is an ear piercing at Claire’s, most of their ear piercings are 20G for the lobe only—not for cartilage. Cartilage piercings should be done with a professional needle, not a piercing gun.
2. What Size Post Do I Need? (Studs for Cartilage)
The post length is how long the stud is from front to back. For most cartilage areas, the standard sizes are:
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6mm — fits snug on small ears
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8mm — gives extra room for swelling or thicker cartilage
If you’re unsure between 6mm or 8mm for helix, beginners are usually recommended 8mm for healing, then downsizing to 6mm later for comfort.
Most upper lobe and cartilage studs follow a similar pattern, so if you're searching what size earring for lobe piercing, the typical length is:
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6mm for regular lobes
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8mm if the lobe is thicker or freshly pierced
3. What Size Hoop for a Cartilage Piercing?
Hoops come in inner diameter sizes measured in mm.
The most common hoop sizes for cartilage (like the helix) are:
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6mm — tight fit, small ears
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8mm — standard size for most helix piercings
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10mm — wider fit or higher placements
So if you're not sure what size hoop for cartilage piercing, 8mm is the safest starting point.
4. How to Know What Size Is Right for You
Everyone’s ear shape is different, so these tips help you pick the best fit:
✔ Check your piercing height
A helix placed higher usually needs a bigger hoop.
✔ Look at your swelling
Fresh piercings need slightly longer jewelry (usually 8mm).
✔ Ask your piercer
They can measure your cartilage thickness and tell you your exact size.
✔ When in doubt, choose a standard
For helix piercing jewelry, the most universal combination is:
16G, 8mm stud or hoop
5. When Should You Downsize?
After the swelling goes down (usually 8–12 weeks), you can switch from:
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8mm → 6mm for a tighter, more comfortable fit
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a larger hoop → a smaller one so it doesn’t rotate too much
Downsizing helps your piercing heal faster and prevents irritation bumps.
Picking the right size jewelry for a cartilage piercing doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you know the basics—gauge, post length, and hoop diameter—you can find the perfect fit every time. Whether you’re shopping for a helix piercing, lobe piercing, or any upper ear style, these standard measurements are a safe place to start.
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