Choosing the right gauge for your earrings can significantly impact comfort and the overall look. While there's no single answer to "what gauge are normal earrings?", understanding earring gauges and their implications is crucial for making informed decisions. This guide will explore common earring gauges, their suitability for different piercings, and how to find the perfect fit.
What is Earring Gauge?
Earring gauge refers to the thickness of the earring post. It's measured using a numerical scale, where smaller numbers indicate thicker posts, and larger numbers indicate thinner posts. This system might seem counterintuitive at first, but it's standardized across the jewelry industry.
For example, a 20-gauge earring is thinner than a 16-gauge earring. A 14-gauge earring is thicker still, and so on.
What Gauge Are Normal Earrings for Pierced Ears?
The gauge considered "normal" largely depends on the type of piercing and personal preference. However, some gauges are far more common than others:
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20 Gauge (0.8mm): This is the most common gauge for standard earlobe piercings. It’s a very thin gauge, making it comfortable for everyday wear and ideal for delicate earrings. Many starter earrings for newly pierced ears are 20 gauge.
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18 Gauge (1.0mm): Slightly thicker than 20 gauge, this gauge is also frequently used for earlobe piercings. It offers a bit more durability and can support heavier earrings.
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16 Gauge (1.6mm): This thicker gauge is suitable for earlobe piercings and is often chosen for heavier or larger earrings. It provides added security for dangling styles.
What About Other Piercing Types?
The gauge used varies widely depending on the piercing location:
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Cartilage piercings (helix, tragus, etc.): These piercings often use smaller gauges like 16g, 18g, or even 20g, depending on the piercing location and the individual's preference. Thinner gauges can lead to faster healing in these more sensitive areas. Larger gauges are generally avoided for initial cartilage piercings because of the increased risk of complications.
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Industrial piercings: These piercings usually utilize 14g or 16g posts.
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Septum piercings: These vary, but common gauges include 14g, 16g, and 18g.
It's crucial to consult with a professional piercer before choosing an earring gauge, particularly for cartilage or other non-earlobe piercings. They can advise you on the best gauge based on your anatomy and the type of piercing.
What Gauge is Too Big for Earrings?
While extremely thick gauges are used for certain body modifications, gauges larger than 14g are rarely found in standard earrings for everyday wear. Extremely thick gauges can cause more trauma to the piercing and generally aren't suitable for everyday jewelry.
What Gauge Earring Should I Get for a New Piercing?
For newly pierced ears, your piercer will most likely use a 18g or 20g earring. These thinner gauges are easier on the healing tissues and minimize discomfort and potential problems during the healing process. Never change the jewelry in a new piercing yourself until it's fully healed. Always seek professional advice from your piercer.
What Happens if I Use the Wrong Gauge?
Using the wrong gauge can lead to several issues:
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Discomfort: An earring too thick can cause pain and irritation. An earring that's too thin might not be secure and could fall out easily.
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Infection: Improperly fitting jewelry can increase the risk of infection.
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Damage to the piercing: An incorrectly sized earring might stretch or tear the piercing hole.
Always choose earrings that fit comfortably and securely. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional piercer. They can accurately measure your piercing and recommend appropriate gauge jewelry.
How do I measure my existing piercing?
Precise measurement of existing piercings requires a gauge measuring tool. Many piercing studios have these. You can also purchase a gauge measurement tool online or at a piercing supply store. Attempting to estimate this without the proper tool could lead to inaccuracies.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of earring gauges. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with a professional piercer to ensure you choose the right size for your specific needs and piercings. Your comfort and the health of your piercing should always be the top priority.
