The piercing gauge is the measurement of the thickness or diameter of the jewelry’s wire that passes through the body. Knowing this precise dimension is necessary for changing jewelry safely without causing trauma to the tissue. If the jewelry is too thin, the piercing hole can shrink. If it is too thick, forcing it can tear the fistula, which is the healed tube of skin that lines the piercing. Accurately determining the gauge prevents complications and maintains the size of the healed channel, allowing for easy jewelry insertion.
The Inverse Logic of the Gauge System
The system used to size most body jewelry operates on an inverse logic. Unlike standard rulers where larger numbers represent greater size, as the gauge number increases, the physical thickness of the jewelry wire actually decreases.
For instance, 18 gauge (18G) jewelry is visibly thinner than 14 gauge (14G). This standardized system is loosely based on the American Wire Gauge (AWG) standard, where a wire’s diameter gets smaller as the gauge number goes up. This convention explains why a 20G earring, common for earlobes, is much finer than the 12G or 10G jewelry often used in larger piercings.
The common 16G jewelry has a diameter of approximately 1.2 millimeters, while a 14G piece is thicker at about 1.6 millimeters. The 20G jewelry measures only about 0.8 millimeters, demonstrating the reduction in thickness with each ascending number. Understanding this inverse relationship is the foundation for selecting replacement jewelry.
Practical Steps for Measuring Your Jewelry
The most accurate method for determining the gauge of existing jewelry involves using a precision instrument like digital calipers or a micrometer. These tools measure the diameter of the jewelry post with high accuracy, typically displaying the result in millimeters. The measurement must be taken across the wearable surface of the post, avoiding any flared ends or decorative attachments.
After obtaining the measurement in millimeters, a gauge conversion chart is necessary to translate that number into the corresponding gauge size. For example, a reading of 1.6 millimeters aligns with 14G, and 1.0 millimeter corresponds to 18G. Using these precision tools eliminates the guesswork and ensures that the replacement jewelry will fit perfectly.
If precision tools are not available, a common alternative is to utilize a printed gauge wheel or comparison chart. These charts feature outlines of various gauge sizes, allowing the user to physically lay their jewelry piece against the printed shapes to find the closest match. While this method is less precise than using calipers, it offers a quick visual estimation of the size.
For absolute certainty, consulting a professional piercer remains the safest and most reliable option. A piercer possesses specialized tools and experience to quickly and accurately identify the gauge of the jewelry or the size of the piercing channel itself. They can also offer guidance on appropriate jewelry materials and styles.
Standard Gauges for Common Piercing Types
Most common piercings are initiated using a standard gauge size, though individual anatomy and piercer preference can cause slight variations.
- Ear Lobe Piercings: Most frequently started at 20G or 18G, which are the thinnest standard gauges.
- Cartilage Piercings (helix, tragus, conch): Typically utilize 16G or occasionally 18G for better stability during healing.
- Facial Piercings (nostril): Usually performed at 18G or 20G, providing a subtle appearance.
- Septum and Lip Piercings: Commonly started at 16G, offering a good balance of durability and comfort.
- Naval (Belly Button) Piercings: The standard size is 14G, reflecting the need for a sturdier post in an area subject to frequent movement.
- Internal Oral Piercings (tongue): Generally require the thickest starting gauges (14G or 12G) to minimize the risk of migration or tissue damage.