Gauge Size
Jewelry is measured through a gauge system (conversion chart below). The higher the gauge number the smaller the wire is. For reference, a standard "earring" is usually 20 gauge. Jewelry gauges can vary between manufacturers. There is no universal regulation on companies to make a standard size in body jewelry. This is because some jewelry is made outside of the USA and measured in millimeters. And in the USA jewelry is measured in inches.
How to measure gauge size
| Gauge | Millimeter | Inch |
|---|---|---|
| 20g | .81mm | |
| 18g | 1mm | |
| 16g | 1.2mm | 3/64" |
| 14g | 1.6mm | 1/16" |
Ring Size
Rings are an essential item that can be worn in many piercings. They come in various styles:
- Captive bead rings - These use tension to hold a bead in place.
- Clickers - These use a hinge to open and close the ring.
- Segment rings - These have a "segment" that comes completely out of the jewelry similar to removing a bead. But it looks like a completely seamless piece of jewelry.
- Seamless rings - These rings require bending to open & close.
How to measure rings
- Gauge - This is the thickness of the ring itself.
- Diameter/Length - Measure directly across the inside center of the ring.
Curved Barbells
Curved barbells are commonly worn in various ear projects & eyebrows.
How to measure curved barbells
- Gauge - This is the thickness of the post/bar itself.
- Length - Measure directly across the post between the ends.
Circular Barbells
Circular barbells are commonly worn in various ear projects, septums, nipples, and lips.
How to measure circular barbells
- Gauge - This is the thickness of the post itself.
- Diameter/Length - Measure directly across the inside center of the circular.
Nosescrews
Nosescrews are worn in nostril piercings.
How to measure nosescrews
- Gauge - This is the thickness of the post itself.
- Length / Wearable area - Measure directly across the post right below where the main end starts and before the bend begins.
Nosebones
Nosebones are worn in nostril piercings.
How to measure nosebones
- Gauge - This is the thickness of the post itself.
- Length / Wearable area - Measure directly across the post right below where the main end starts and before the bend small ball on the other side begins.
Belly Jewelry
These are curved barbells designed to be worn in navel piercings. Usually there is a smaller top ball, with a bottom design that is more ornate, has a larger ball, or has hanging charms.
How to measure belly curved barbells
- Gauge - This is the thickness of the post / bar itself.
- Length - Measure directly across the post between the ends.
