Ear Stretching Size Chart: Gauges to Millimeters

Ear-stretching sizes can appear as gauge, millimeters, inches, or a mixture of all three. This chart gives common equivalents, but the exact millimeter measurement on the product page should be your final reference. Gauge labels become less intuitive as jewelry gets larger, and 00g is especially likely to vary between brands.

Ear stretching size chart

Gauge Approx. millimeters Approx. inches
18g 1.0 mm 5/128 in
16g 1.2 mm 3/64 in
14g 1.6 mm 1/16 in
12g 2.0 mm 5/64 in
10g 2.5 mm 3/32 in
8g 3.2 mm 1/8 in
6g 4.0 mm 5/32 in
4g 5.0 mm 3/16 in
2g 6.0 mm 1/4 in
1g 7.0 mm 9/32 in
0g 8.0 mm 5/16 in
00g 9-10 mm 3/8 in
7/16 in 11 mm 7/16 in
1/2 in 12-13 mm 1/2 in
9/16 in 14 mm 9/16 in
5/8 in 16 mm 5/8 in
3/4 in 19 mm 3/4 in
13/16 in 20 mm 13/16 in

Important: these are common conversions, not a promise that every maker uses identical measurements. When a gauge and millimeter label appear together, compare the stated millimeter diameter and the product's wearable area.

How gauge sizing works

At smaller sizes, a lower gauge number means a larger diameter. After 0g and 00g, listings commonly switch to millimeters or inch fractions. That is why comparing millimeters is usually the clearest way to check two products.

Why in-between sizes matter

Size jumps are not equal. An in-between millimeter option can reduce the change between two listed sizes, but readiness cannot be decided by a calendar alone. A piercing should be fully healed, mature and pliable before any stretch is considered. Never force jewelry into place.

Reading PUNKYOUTH size options

Use the size selector and specifications on the individual product page. Browse Plugs and Tunnels, compare solid-center Plugs, or view open-center Tunnels. Ear Weights should be chosen by listed size, dimensions and weight; they are decorative jewelry for suitable healed stretches, not tools for creating a new stretch. Ear Stretching Kits list different ranges, so check every included size rather than relying on the kit name.

When to ask a professional piercer

There is no universal stretching timetable. If you are unsure of your current size, the next increment, jewelry fit, or tissue condition, ask a qualified professional piercer. Stop if there is significant pain, bleeding, tearing, unusual swelling or discharge, and seek medical care when infection is suspected.

Sources and further reading: Association of Professional Piercers: Stretching; Association of Professional Piercers: Aftercare.

Voltar para o blogue