What Gauge is a Regular Ear Piercing?

Table of content:

Article Summary

When shopping for earrings, size, style, and material are all important—but have you ever considered the gauge? Whether you’re buying your first pair or looking for a perfect fit, understanding what gauge means and how it affects comfort is essential. So, what is the gauge of regular earrings? Let’s break it down.

What Is the Gauge of Regular Earrings?

 

The gauge of an earring refers to the thickness of the post that goes through your piercing. Unlike standard measurements where higher numbers indicate larger sizes, gauge measurements work in reverse: the smaller the number, the thicker the earring post.

For most regular earrings, the gauge size is typically:

  • • 

    18G (1.0mm) – The most common size for new ear piercings.

  • • 

    20G (0.8mm) – The standard gauge for most stud earrings and small hoops.

  • • 

    22G (0.6mm) – A thinner option often used for delicate designs.


Standard Earring Gauge Sizes for Different Styles

 

Stud Earrings

Most stud earrings fall within the 20G to 22G range, making them easy to wear for most standard piercings.

Hoop Earrings

Hoops typically come in 20G, but thicker statement hoops may be 18G or even 16G.

Dangly & Drop Earrings

Like studs, these are often 20G, though heavier designs may have slightly thicker posts for durability.

Cartilage Earrings

For helix, tragus, and conch piercings, gauges vary between 16G and 18G, depending on the piercing type and personal preference.


Earring Thickness Chart for Quick Reference

 

Gauge

Millimeter (mm)

Common Use

22G

0.6mm

Dainty studs, lightweight earrings

20G

0.8mm

Standard earring posts, small hoops

18G

1.0mm

Initial piercings, thicker hoops

16G

1.2mm

Cartilage piercings, bold statement pieces


How to Choose the Right Gauge for Your Earrings

 

Picking the right gauge depends on comfort, piercing type, and personal style. Here’s how to choose:

  • • 

    For everyday wear: Stick to 20G or 22G for lightweight comfort.

  • • 

    For sensitive ears: Thinner posts like 22G are less likely to cause irritation.

  • • 

    For stretched lobes or bold looks: Consider 18G or thicker styles.


Expert Tips for Comfortable Earring Wear

 
  • • 

    Know your piercing size before purchasing new earrings, especially if you’ve been pierced with a thicker gauge.

  • • 

    Choose hypoallergenic materials like titanium or gold to avoid irritation.

  • • 

    Don’t force a thicker gauge earring into a smaller hole—stretching should be done gradually if desired.


Where to Find High-Quality Earrings

 

Brands like Ana Luisa offer a variety of stylish, comfortable earrings in standard gauge sizes. Whether you love minimal studs or bold hoops, choosing the right gauge ensures a perfect fit and long-lasting comfort.

Final Thoughts: Why Earring Gauge Matters

 

Understanding earring gauge helps you find pieces that fit comfortably and suit your piercing needs. Whether you prefer delicate studs or statement hoops, knowing the difference between 18G, 20G, and 22G ensures your earrings not only look great but feel great, too!

Looking for your next favorite pair? Browse high-quality earrings designed for everyday elegance and ultimate comfort!

Compass Necklace Meaning & Symbolism

There’s something irresistibly charming about a compass necklace. Maybe it’s the intricate design, or maybe it’s the idea of guidance, protection, and purpose wrapped into one elegant piece of jewelry. But beyond its beauty lies a rich story—a deeper compass necklace meaning that resonates with travelers, dreamers, and seekers alike.

In this article, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the compass necklace: its origins, meanings, how to wear it, and why it’s become such a beloved piece in both fine and fashion jewelry. Whether you're shopping for a gift or want to add more intentionality to your own style, you’re in the right place.

Learn more

The Difference Between Pearls Vs. Mother of Pearl?

Ever stumbled across a stunning pair of earrings and thought, Wait—is this pearl or mother of pearl? You're not alone. These two luminous beauties are often mistaken for each other, but they’re not quite the same. If you’ve ever felt a little confused while shopping for jewelry or just want to deepen your gemstone knowledge, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break it all down and help you confidently tell the difference between mother of pearl vs pearl, and which one is the right fit for your next favorite piece.

Learn more

What are the Different Type of Gold Necklaces

There’s something timeless, elegant, and undeniably powerful about a gold necklace. It can be bold or delicate, statement-making or subtly chic. But with so many types of gold necklaces out there, how do you know which one’s right for you?

Learn more

Compass Necklace Meaning & Symbolism

There’s something irresistibly charming about a compass necklace. Maybe it’s the intricate design, or maybe it’s the idea of guidance, protection, and purpose wrapped into one elegant piece of jewelry. But beyond its beauty lies a rich story—a deeper compass necklace meaning that resonates with travelers, dreamers, and seekers alike.

In this article, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the compass necklace: its origins, meanings, how to wear it, and why it’s become such a beloved piece in both fine and fashion jewelry. Whether you're shopping for a gift or want to add more intentionality to your own style, you’re in the right place.

Learn more

The Difference Between Pearls Vs. Mother of Pearl?

Ever stumbled across a stunning pair of earrings and thought, Wait—is this pearl or mother of pearl? You're not alone. These two luminous beauties are often mistaken for each other, but they’re not quite the same. If you’ve ever felt a little confused while shopping for jewelry or just want to deepen your gemstone knowledge, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break it all down and help you confidently tell the difference between mother of pearl vs pearl, and which one is the right fit for your next favorite piece.

Learn more

7 Different Types of Ring Shanks Design

When we think of rings—especially engagement rings—it’s easy to focus all our attention on the center stone. But let’s not overlook the unsung hero of the design: the shank. The shank is the part of the ring that wraps around your finger, and it plays a much bigger role in comfort, style, and durability than most people realize.

Learn more

EarringsNecklacesBraceletsRingsOther