Here’s something surprising about gauge sizes ear: – they work backward! The smaller the number actually means a bigger hole in your ear.
This unusual measuring system traces back to the 1700s when it was created to measure wire thickness. The American Wire Gauge (AWG) system, 166 years old, became the foundation that shaped today’s body modification measurements.
Standard ear piercings usually begin at 20g or 18g (about 0.8mm to 1.0mm). The sizing becomes more complex as you progress. Measurements switch entirely to millimeters or fractions of an inch after reaching 00g (9.2mm).
Understanding these measurements is vital to stretch safely, whether you’re planning your first stretch or continuing your experience. You’ll find everything you need to know about measuring ear gauge sizes here, from simple tools to common measurement mistakes.
Let’s take a closer look at ear gauge measurements to ensure you stretch safely!
Understanding Ear Gauge Measurements
Ear gauge sizes use three different measurement systems: gauge (g), millimeters (mm), and inches (“). This knowledge helps you stretch your ears safely and successfully.
What Are Gauge Sizes Ear?
Gauge sizes measure the thickness or diameter of jewelry that goes through your pierced ear. The standard gauge system ranges from 20g (smallest) to 00g (largest).
Measurements switch to inches or millimeters after that point. A standard ear piercing starts at 20g or 18g, which measures about 0.8mm to 1mm in diameter.
Why Gauge Numbers Go Backwards
The British wire industry’s measuring practices created this unusual numbering system. Wire manufacturers used a 1-inch steel plate as their reference point.
The use of 1/16th became known as 16 gauge, and 1/8th became 8 gauge. The number showed how many times the wire passed through draw plates during production. The wire got thinner with each pass, which explains why higher numbers mean smaller sizes.
Common Starting Gauge Sizes Ear
People usually start their ear stretching at 14g or 16g, based on their original piercing size. Here’s a simple guide to common starting sizes:
| Gauge Size | Millimeter | Description |
| 20g | 0.8mm | Standard piercing |
| 18g | 1.0mm | Also standard |
| 16g | 1.2mm | Common cartilage size |
| 14g | 1.6mm | First stretching size |
The size difference between gauges varies. The jump from 4g (5mm) to 2g (6mm) is 1mm, while 2g (6mm) to 0g (8mm) is 2mm. You can avoid stretching problems by understanding these size differences.
Essential Tools for Measuring Gauges
Safe ear stretching starts with accurate measurements, and you’ll need the right tools for this experience. Digital calipers and gauge wheels are the two main tools you should know about.
Gauge Sizes Ear: Digital Calipers vs Gauge Wheels
Digital calipers are more precise and versatile than other measuring tools.
These electronic devices come with an LCD screen that shows measurements in millimeters and inches, which makes size conversions easy. Digital calipers are great at measuring jewelry’s exact diameter, which helps you get custom sizes and perfect fits.
Gauge wheels made from acrylic give you a simpler option. These circular tools have pre-sized holes from 18g (1mm) to 1 inch (25mm). But acrylic gauge wheels can be tricky – larger sizes might squeeze into smaller holes under pressure. This makes them less reliable than digital calipers.
Where to Get Measuring Tools
You can find digital calipers at most hardware stores, with prices between $7 and $140.
Professional-grade options cost more but are more durable and precise. Many online stores also sell both standard and digital calipers made specifically for body jewelry measurements.
Body modification supply stores and online marketplaces stock various gauge wheels. These tools show measurements on both sides – gauge sizes on one side and millimeter conversions on the other.
To pick the right measuring tools, think over these key points:
- Measurement Range: The tool should cover your target sizes
- Material Quality: Steel calipers last longer than plastic ones
- Accuracy Requirements: Digital calipers give you more precise measurements than gauge wheels
Note that you should measure the wearable part of the jewelry, not its decorative flares or ends. This detail will help you get accurate sizes and stretch safely.
Gauge Sizes Ear: Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
Safe and successful ear stretching depends on proper measurement techniques. Here’s a detailed guide to help you use measuring tools the right way.
How to Use Digital Calipers
You need to set up your digital calipers correctly before using them. We zeroed out the closed calipers to get accurate readings. The next step is to press the ON/OFF button and select your preferred measurement unit (mm/inch). You should place the jewelry flat between the caliper’s prongs to measure it properly.
Taking Accurate Measurements
The jewelry goes between the caliper’s jaws, and you should avoid touching the measuring surfaces with your hands. Measure the wearable area of plugs instead of their decorative flares.
The jaws should close gently until they touch the jewelry’s thickest part.
Recording Your Results
Keeping track of your measurements is crucial. Write down both the gauge size and millimeter measurements so you can refer to them later. Clean your tools with antimicrobial soap after taking measurements to keep them hygienic.
Common Measurement Mistakes
Your readings might be wrong for several reasons. Here are the mistakes you should avoid:
- Measuring flared ends instead of the wearable area
- Taking measurements while jewelry is wet
- Using unclean or unadjusted tools
- Forcing measurements when resistance occurs
It’s worth mentioning that precise measurements help prevent stretching complications. A professional piercer’s expertise is your best option if you’re unsure about your measurements.
Converting Between Size Systems
The standard gauge system covers three main measurement units: gauge sizes, millimeters, and inches. Accurate jewelry selection depends on understanding these conversions.
Gauge to Millimeter Chart
We started with gauge measurements at 18g (1mm) and they go up to 00g (10mm). Here’s a conversion chart that shows the most common sizes:
| Gauge (g) | Millimeters (mm) | Inches (“) |
| 18g | 1.0mm | 5/128″ |
| 16g | 1.2mm | 3/64″ |
| 14g | 1.6mm | 1/16″ |
| 12g | 2.0mm | 5/64″ |
| 10g | 2.4mm | 3/32″ |
| 8g | 3.0mm | 1/8″ |
| 6g | 4.0mm | 5/32″ |
| 4g | 5.0mm | 3/16″ |
| 2g | 6.0mm | 1/4″ |
| 0g | 8.0mm | 5/16″ |
| 00g | 10.0mm | 3/8″ |
Understanding Inch Measurements
Measurements switch completely to fractions of inches or millimeters after reaching 00g. The next size becomes 7/16 inch (11mm) and then moves to 1/2 inch (12mm). This change marks a shift away from gauge notation.
Millimeter measurements are more precise for sizes beyond 00g. Many experienced stretchers choose millimeter measurements because they show exact numerical progression without dealing with complex fractional inches.
Conclusion
Proper measurements are crucial to stretch your ears safely. In this piece, you’ll learn about three measurement systems, the tools you need, and the right techniques to measure correctly.
Digital calipers are your best bet to get accurate measurements. Gauge wheels can work well too as a practical option. Keep in mind that the gauge system works backward because of how wire manufacturing worked historically.
Getting your measurements right will help you avoid complications. You need to be extra careful whether you start with standard sizes like 20g or go beyond 00g. Always double-check your measurements. Clean tools and detailed progress records are equally important.
Ear stretching needs both patience and precision. Now that you understand the measuring techniques and size conversions better, you can work toward your stretching goals safely.
