EAR PIERCING JEWELRY SIZE GUIDE
Find your perfect fit.
Learn about jewelry gauges, hoop diameters and flat back post lengths.
What do you need help with?
Find Your Piercing
Select your piercing to find your recommended jewelry sizes.
How is piercing jewelry measured?
Piercing jewelry has two key sizing considerations: how thick the jewelry is and how it fits your anatomy.
Jewelry thickness
How thick is the part that goes through your piercing?
Gauge measures the thickness of the jewelry. The smaller the gauge number, the thicker the jewelry. Most ear piercings use 16G (1.2mm), the standard size for healed piercings.
- 20G 0.8mm
- 18G 1.0mm
- 16G 1.2mm Most popular
Gauge conversion
| Gauge | mm | Inches |
|---|---|---|
| 14G | 1.6mm | 0.064" |
| 16G | 1.2mm | 0.050" |
| 18G | 1.0mm | 0.040" |
| 20G | 0.8mm | 0.032" |
| 22G | 0.6mm | 0.025" |
Jewelry dimensions
How much space does your jewelry need?
Depending on your jewelry style, you'll need either a diameter or a length. Measurements follow standard piercer sizing, so compare with jewelry you already own to find your best fit.
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Straight barbell & flat back post length
Measure the wearable length of the post, between the end pieces.
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Hoop diameter
Measure straight across the inside of the hoop.
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Curved barbell length
Measure the straight-line distance between the ends of the wearable bar.
✨ Between sizes? Sizing up slightly usually offers the most comfortable fit.
Hoops
Hoop size guide
Our hoops are made to fit most standard ear piercings. Here's everything you need to choose your size with confidence.
16G standard post
Most of our hoops use a 16G (1.2mm) post, the standard thickness for healed piercings.
Secure, comfy wear
They open smoothly, close securely and stay put all day, with no sharp edges or snagging.
Choose your look
Smaller diameters sit snug and close to the ear. Larger ones give a softer, more open look.
✨ Not sure? Start with 8mm (16G • 1.2mm), the safest choice if you're unsure.
Hoop sizes
Hoop size is the inside diameter, measured straight across the hoop.
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6mm1/4"
Snug fit
Great for smaller placements or a close-to-the-ear look.
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8mm5/16"
Everyday fitMost popular
A versatile fit for most ear placements.
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10mm3/8"
Relaxed fit
More room for larger placements or a looser look.
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12mm1/2"
Statement fit
A larger diameter for a more visible hoop look.
Recommended hoop sizes by piercing
See which hoop diameter fits each piercing best. All sizes are based on a standard 16G (1.2mm) post.
Shop hoops
Flat backs
Flat back size guide
Our flat backs use a universal fit made for nearly all standard ear piercings. Here's how we keep them comfortable and secure.
Universal post length
Every stud comes with the standard post length professional piercers use, for a secure fit in most ear piercings.
16G standard post
A smooth 16G (1.2mm) post, the standard thickness for healed piercings.
Flat back comfort
The flat disc sits flush against your ear with no poking, comfortable for sleeping and 24/7 wear.
Post lengths
Most flat back studs use a 6mm post and a 16G (1.2mm) thickness. If you need extra room, choose a longer post.
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5mm3/16"
Snug fit
Best for thinner anatomy and fully healed piercings that need a closer fit.
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6mm1/4"
StandardMost popular
The standard length for most healed piercings.
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8mm5/16"
Extra room
Most common for new piercings or active swelling.
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10mm3/8"
Most room
Extra room for thicker anatomy or swelling.
Shop flat backs
Recommended sizes by piercing
Most customers find these sizes work perfectly. They're based on standard piercing placements and common anatomy. Since everyone's ears are unique, measure your current jewelry or ask your piercer for the most accurate fit.
| Piercing | Hoop diameter | Barbell length | Post thickness (gauge) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lobe | 6–12mm | 6mm | 20G (0.8mm) – 16G (1.2mm) |
| Helix | 6–10mm | 6mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Tragus | 6mm | 6mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Forward Helix | 6mm | 6mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Conch | 12mm | 6–8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Daith | 8mm | 8mm (curved) | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Rook | 6mm | 6–8mm (curved) | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Snug | 6mm | 8mm (curved) | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Anti-Tragus | 6mm | 8mm (curved) | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Flat | — | 6–8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Industrial | — | 38mm | 16G (1.2mm) – 14G (1.6mm) |
| Nostril (Nose) | 8mm | 6mm | 20G (0.8mm) – 18G (1.0mm) |
| Belly (Navel) | — | 10mm | 14G (1.6mm) |
| Septum | 8mm | — | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Lip (Labret / Medusa) | 8mm | 8mm | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Eyebrow | 8mm | 8mm (curved) | 16G (1.2mm) |
| Smiley (Frenulum) | 8mm | — | 16G (1.2mm) |
Piercing size recommendations
Your recommended hoop diameter, post length and gauge for each piercing, with our favourite pieces for it.
Cartilage piercing
Cartilage piercings come in different placements, so jewelry sizes can vary. Most cartilage piercings use 16G jewelry, with 6–8mm hoops and 6mm flat back posts being common choices for healed piercings.
Cartilage
- Hoop diameter 6–10mm
- Post length 6mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Conch piercing
Conch piercings often need larger hoops because the jewelry wraps around the outer edge of your ear. A 12mm hoop is a popular starting point, while 6–8mm flat back posts can provide a comfortable fit for thicker cartilage.
Conch
- Hoop diameter 12mm
- Post length 6–8mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Helix piercing
Helix piercings are versatile and can be styled with snug hoops or flat back studs. A 6–8mm hoop creates a close-fitting look, while 10mm offers more room. For flat backs, 6mm posts are a popular choice for healed piercings.
Helix
- Hoop diameter 6–10mm
- Post length 6mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Lobe piercing
Lobe piercings offer the most flexibility in jewelry sizing! They can accommodate different gauges, commonly ranging from 20G to 16G, depending on how they were pierced. Hoop diameters from 6–12mm let you choose between snug huggies and roomier styles.
Lobe
- Hoop diameter 6–12mm
- Post length 6mm
- Gauge size 20G (0.8mm) – 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Tragus piercing
Tragus piercings are small, so petite jewelry is usually the best fit. A 6mm hoop or flat back post is a common choice for healed piercings, while 16G is a popular gauge.
Tragus
- Hoop diameter 6mm
- Post length 6mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Rook piercing
Rook piercings sit within a thick fold of cartilage and are commonly styled with curved barbells or small hoops. A 6–8mm curved barbell or 6mm hoop is a typical starting point, depending on your anatomy.
Rook
- Hoop diameter 6mm
- Post length 6–8mm (curved)
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Daith piercing
Daith piercings sit in the innermost fold of your ear and are typically styled with hoops or clickers. An 8mm diameter is a popular starting point, although some ears need a larger ring for a comfortable fit.
Daith
- Hoop diameter 8mm
- Post length 8mm (curved)
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Forward Helix piercing
Forward helix piercings sit in a small area of cartilage near the front of your ear. Petite flat back studs with 6mm posts are popular, while 6mm hoops may work depending on placement and anatomy.
Forward Helix
- Hoop diameter 6mm
- Post length 6mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Flat piercing
Flat piercings are perfect for showing off decorative flat back studs! Since they sit on a broad, flat area of cartilage, 6–8mm posts are common choices. The ideal length depends on cartilage thickness and piercing placement.
Flat
- Post length 6–8mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Nostril piercing
Nostril piercings can be styled with delicate studs or hoops. Common gauges range from 20G to 18G, while 8mm hoops and 6mm posts are popular starting points depending on nose shape and placement.
Nostril
- Hoop diameter 8mm
- Post length 6mm
- Gauge size 20G (0.8mm) – 18G (1.0mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Belly piercing
Belly button (navel) piercings use thicker jewelry than most ear piercings. The standard size for a belly button ring is 14G (1.6mm) thick, with a 10mm (3/8") bar length.
Belly
- Post length 10mm
- Gauge size 14G (1.6mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Septum piercing
Septum piercings are commonly styled with hoops, clickers, and horseshoe rings. A 16G gauge and 8mm diameter are popular choices for a snug look, while 10mm offers a roomier fit.
Septum
- Hoop diameter 8mm
- Gauge size 16G (1.2mm)
Typical sizes; fit varies by anatomy and placement.
Sizing FAQ
What gauge are most ear piercings?
Most ear piercings, both cartilage and lobe, are pierced at 16G (1.2mm), and most of our jewelry is 16G. Lobes are sometimes pierced thinner, at 18G (1.0mm) or 20G (0.8mm). If you are not sure, ask your piercer or check the jewelry you wear now.
What post length should I choose for flat back studs?
6mm suits most healed piercings and is what most customers choose. Go for 8mm if your piercing is new or swollen, and 10mm for thicker anatomy that needs extra room.
What hoop size should I get?
8mm is the most versatile hoop size and the safest choice if you are unsure. 6mm sits snug, which suits the tragus, rook and forward helix. 10–12mm gives more room and a bolder look, which suits the conch and lobe.
How do I measure my current jewelry?
Use a millimetre ruler or calipers. Gauge is the thickness of the post. Post length is the wearable part between the ends, not counting the gem or the back. Hoop diameter is measured straight across the inside of the hoop.
How is hoop diameter measured?
Hoop diameter is the inside measurement, straight across the hoop from one inner edge to the other. That is the space your ear sits in, so it is the number that decides the fit.
My piercing is new or swollen. What size do I need?
Choose a longer post, 8mm or 10mm, so the jewelry is not tight while your piercing heals or swells. Once it has settled, you can switch down to a shorter post for a closer fit. Your piercer can tell you when it is ready to change.
Can I wear a 16G earring in an 18G or 20G piercing?
16G is thicker than 18G and 20G, so it may feel tight or not go in comfortably. A thinner post will go into a thicker piercing, but a thicker one will not easily go into a thinner piercing. If you are unsure of your gauge, ask your piercer before changing.
When can I change my jewelry or wear hoops?
Wait until your piercing is fully healed before changing it or switching to a hoop. Lobes usually heal faster than cartilage, which can take many months. Your piercer is the best person to confirm it is ready.
Can I change the post length of my flat back studs?
Yes. Our Clover flat back stud post set comes with 5mm, 8mm and 10mm posts, so you can swap to the length that fits you best.