Your Body Jewellery Sizing Guide

Ever looked at a jewellery listing and wondered what 14G, 16G, or 20G actually means?

You're definitely not alone!

Body jewellery sizing can feel a little confusing when you're shopping online, especially when different styles use different measurements. But once you understand the basics, choosing your next piece becomes much easier.

Let's break it down.

What Is Gauge in Body Jewellery?

Gauge, often written as G, refers to the thickness of the jewellery post or bar.

Here's the part that catches many people out: the smaller the gauge number, the thicker the jewellery.

For example, 14G jewellery is thicker than 16G jewellery.

This matters because your new piece needs to be compatible with your existing piercing. Choosing the wrong thickness can cause discomfort or damage.

Common Gauge Sizes Explained

Here are some common sizes you'll see while shopping for body jewellery:

• 20G: Often used for certain nose studs and smaller jewellery styles.

• 18G: A common size for some nose and ear jewellery.

• 16G: Used for various cartilage and other body jewellery styles.

• 14G: Common in belly bars and a range of body jewellery.

• 12G and thicker: Available for certain piercings and stretched jewellery styles.

These are general examples, not universal sizing rules. The correct gauge depends on your piercing, anatomy, and the jewellery you currently wear.

Gauge Isn't the Same as Bar Length

Here's another common mix-up.

Gauge measures thickness, while bar length measures the wearable length of a straight barbell or labret. For rings, diameter describes the distance across the ring.

For example, a 16G labret could come in different bar lengths. Both measurements matter when choosing a comfortable fit.

Before purchasing, check the full product specifications rather than relying on the gauge alone.

How to Choose the Right Size

Before adding jewellery to your cart, consider these points:

1. Check your current jewellery. If you already have a comfortable piece, check its specifications if available.

2. Measure carefully. Gauge, wearable length, and ring diameter are different measurements. A professional piercer can help you confirm the correct fit.

3. Check the product listing. Make sure the jewellery is designed for your piercing and that the dimensions suit your needs.

4. Don't force a piece that doesn't fit. If the jewellery feels tight, painful, or difficult to insert, stop and seek advice from a qualified piercer.

Does Every Piercing Use the Same Size?

Nope! Different piercings can use different gauges and lengths, and individual anatomy plays a part too.

A belly bar, a nose stud, a labret, and a septum ring aren't automatically interchangeable just because they look similar.

Always choose jewellery designed for the intended placement and check its measurements before buying.

Shop Smarter at Totally Pierced

Understanding jewellery sizing makes shopping online much easier.

Whether you're browsing labrets, hinged rings, horseshoes, nose jewellery, or belly bars, take a moment to check the gauge and other measurements before placing your order.

A little sizing know-how can make a big difference to your jewellery experience.

Know your size, check the fit, and find your next favourite at Totally Pierced.