Here to help
Find your fit.
Three measurements make choosing your jewelry easier. Compare them with a piece that already fits you.
Gauge
Gauge describes the thickness of the wire or post that passes through the piercing. A smaller gauge number means a thicker piece.
| Gauge | Wire thickness |
|---|---|
| 24G | 0.5 mm |
| 22G | 0.6 mm |
| 20G | 0.8 mm |
| 18G | 1.0 mm |
| 16G | 1.2 mm |
| 14G | 1.6 mm |
Match the gauge shown in the product options to the thickness you need.
Hoop diameter
Inner diameter is measured across the inside of the hoop, from one inside edge to the other.
Measure a comfortable hoop across its widest inside point. The outside diameter includes the wire thickness.
Post length
Post length describes the wearable bar between the decorative top and the backing. It is different from the size of the stone or the front design.
Check the post length in the product details. If you are unsure of your fit, ask your piercer to measure it.
Illustrations are not shown at actual size. Measurements are in millimeters.
More about these measurements
Our original reference chart shows inner hoop diameters from 5 mm to 13.5 mm in 0.5 mm steps. Available sizes vary by design. Use the size options on the product page to see the choices for that piece.
U shaped, L shaped, fishtail, bone and flat back posts are measured differently. Check the post style and length in the product details. The size of the decorative top is separate from the wearable post length.
Images on a screen are not a measuring tool. Measure jewelry that already fits with a ruler or caliper, or ask your piercer to measure your fit. Do not choose a size by holding jewelry against a screen image.
Choosing a stud back
A small detail that changes how your jewelry feels. Compare the back styles offered for the piece you like.
Flat back with internal threading
Putting it in. The post enters from the back of the piercing and the decorative top screws into it. The small parts can take practice; a piercer can help with fitting.
Retention and visibility. The closed top and flat disc hold the stud in place. The disc is discreet inside the nostril or behind the ear. The screw must stay fastened, and an overly long post can still let the front sit away from the skin.
U shape or nostril screw
Putting it in. The curved end turns through the piercing, so it can take more practice than an L shape.
Retention and visibility. The inner curve helps retain the stud without a separate back. Depending on the fit and angle, the tail can rotate toward the nostril opening and become visible.
L shape
Putting it in. A single bend guides the post into place. Often simpler to handle than a full nostril screw.
Retention and visibility. The bend provides retention, but there is no locking closure. It can move or come out if caught. The short tail may show at the nostril opening if it turns or the fit is unsuitable.
Nose bone
Putting it in. A straight post with a small retaining ball at the end. The ball passes through the piercing, which can make insertion and removal harder. For fully healed piercings only; never force it.
Retention and visibility. The small ball holds the post in place without a curved tail, giving a discreet inner profile. Retention depends on the fit of the post and ball.
Fishtail
Putting it in. A long, straight post intended to be shaped to fit by a professional piercer. It needs fitting before wear.
Retention and visibility. Retention and how discreet it looks depend on the final bend and length. Choose this when you plan to have the post individually fitted.
No back can guarantee against loss. The right gauge, length and a properly fitted closure matter. If insertion is difficult, ask a professional piercer for help.
A little confused? We’re one message away.
Email a clear photo of your piercing, a link to the piece you like and any measurements you know. Tell us whether you want a discreet look or more of a statement. We’ll help you compare sizes and back styles. For an exact fit, a piercer can measure your gauge and post length.
Ask the studio ↗