When it comes to body jewelry, understanding gauge sizes is essential for both beginners and seasoned piercing enthusiasts. Whether you’re shopping for new jewelry or stretching a piercing, knowing how gauge sizes work can help you make informed decisions. In this guide lambert piercings, we’ll break down the basics of gauge sizing, conversions, and how to choose the right size for your piercings.
What is a Gauge?
A gauge (G) is the unit of measurement used to determine the thickness of body jewelry. Unlike most measurement systems, gauge sizes work in reverse—the smaller the number, the thicker the jewelry. For example, a 20G stud is much thinner than a 10G ring.
Common Gauge Sizes for Piercings
Different piercings require different gauge sizes. Here are some of the most common sizes:
- Earlobe & Nostril Piercing: 20G – 18G
- Cartilage (Helix, Tragus, Conch, etc.): 16G – 18G
- Lip & Eyebrow Piercings: 16G
- Tongue & Navel Piercings: 14G
- Septum & Nipple Piercings: 14G – 12G
- Industrial & Some Large Gauge Ear Piercings: 14G – 12G
Gauge Size Conversion Chart
Since some jewelry may be labeled in inches or millimeters, here’s a quick conversion guide:
| Gauge (G) | Inches | Millimeters (mm) |
| 20G | 0.032″ | 0.8mm |
| 18G | 0.040″ | 1.0mm |
| 16G | 0.051″ | 1.2mm |
| 14G | 0.064″ | 1.6mm |
| 12G | 0.081″ | 2.0mm |
| 10G | 0.102″ | 2.5mm |
| 8G | 0.128″ | 3.2mm |
| 6G | 0.162″ | 4.0mm |
| 4G | 0.204″ | 5.0mm |
| 2G | 0.258″ | 6.5mm |
| 0G | 0.325″ | 8.0mm |
| 00G | 0.365″ | 9.3mm |
How to Choose the Right Gauge Size
When selecting body jewelry, consider the following factors:
- Piercing Type – Some areas of the body naturally require thicker jewelry.
- Comfort & Healing – Choosing a size too thick or too thin may cause irritation or prolong healing.
- Stretching – If you’re looking to stretch a piercing (e.g., earlobes), do it gradually using tapering tools or professional assistance.
Tips for Caring for Your Piercing Jewelry
- Always clean your jewelry before inserting it.
- Avoid switching to a different gauge size unless your piercing is fully healed.
- Use high-quality materials like titanium, surgical steel, or gold to prevent irritation.
Final Thoughts
Understanding gauge sizes is key to finding the perfect body jewelry. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your collection, knowing how to read and convert gauge sizes will help you make the best choices for comfort, style, and safety.
Would you like to add anything specific to this post, such as more details on stretching or jewelry materials? 😊