GAUGE / THICKNESS
The word gauge refers to the thickness of body jewelry. Body jewelry gauge sizes work in reverse, meaning that higher numbers (like 18 gauge) are thinner than smaller numbers (like a 8 gauge). Body jewelry gauges usually range from 20g to 00g. Piercing jewelry then goes to measurements such as 1/2 inch plugs. The word gaging means increasing the size of a piercing for larger gauge jewelry.
If you need to know what gauge piercing you have is to go and ask a professional piercer. Unless you requested a non-standard size, most professional piercers have a standard size they use for starter jewelry. Most piercings for starters are usually either 14 or 16 gauge, although some go as large as 12g or 18g. Choosing the right gauge jewelry for your piercing is always important.
We carry piercing jewelry in standard and non-standard gauges, so you're sure to find the right fit.
DIAMETER
Diameter is a measurement used for circles or other round jewelry. In the piercing jewelry market, diameter measurement is used to get the correct size of the ring used in piercings. CBR (Captive Bead Rings), Horseshoes and Other Circular types of body jewelry uses a diameter measurement for correct sizes.
When buying ball closure rings, circular barbells and other body spirals the internal diameter is important because it lets you know how much space you will have for your piercing. This is important for where the ring goes around part of the piercing, such as lip piercing or a helix piercing. To find out the internal diameter you should measure from the piercing to the edge of your ear, lip or nose.
LENGTH
The length measurement refers to length of jewelry bar. Not the whole length of the jewelry. The length of the barbell is measured between the two balls from either end. It is most important to get the right length jewelry, If your piercing jewelry is too short it will pinch and may get rejected, whereas a too long of a piercing bar will be uncomfortable and may slide.
