By Anya Petrova, Certified Piercer with 10+ Years of Experience
Table of Contents
Diamond gauges are a crucial aspect of piercing, determining the thickness of the jewelry that can be worn in a particular piercing. Understanding diamond gauge sizes are essential for both piercers and individuals considering getting pierced. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of diamond gauge sizes, including their conversion chart, how to measure them, and their applications in different piercing locations.
Diamond Gauge Conversion Chart
Diamond gauges are measured in millimeters (mm) or American Wire Gauge (AWG). The higher the gauge number, the thinner the jewelry. Here’s a conversion chart for common diamond gauge sizes:
| Gauge (mm) | Gauge (AWG) |
|---|---|
| 20 | 0.81 |
| 18 | 1.02 |
| 16 | 1.29 |
| 14 | 1.63 |
| 12 | 2.05 |
| 10 | 2.59 |
| 8 | 3.26 |
| 6 | 4.11 |
| 4 | 5.19 |
| 2 | 6.55 |
How to Measure Diamond Gauge
Measuring diamond gauge requires a specialized tool called a caliper. Place the caliper’s jaws over the jewelry and gently squeeze them together until they touch the inner edges of the jewelry. The measurement on the caliper will indicate the diamond gauge.
Diamond Gauge for Different Piercing Locations
The appropriate diamond gauge for a piercing depends on its location and the desired jewelry size. Here are some common piercing locations and their typical diamond gauge sizes:
- Earlobe: 18g-20g
- Cartilage (helix, tragus, conch): 16g-18g
- Nose: 18g-20g
- Septum: 16g-18g
Diamond Gauge for Diamond Stud Earrings
Diamond stud earrings are typically available in diamond gauge sizes of 18g-20g. The most common size for diamond stud earrings is 20g, which is suitable for most earlobe piercings.
Conclusion
Understanding diamond gauge sizes is essential for informed decision-making when getting pierced. By referring to the conversion chart and considering the appropriate gauge for different piercing locations, you can ensure a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing piercing experience.
FAQs
1. What is the most common diamond gauge size for earlobe piercings?
- The most common diamond gauge size for earlobe piercings is 20g.
2. What diamond gauge size is suitable for cartilage piercings?
- For cartilage piercings, diamond gauge sizes ranging from 16g to 18g are suitable.
3. How do I measure the diamond gauge of my jewelry?
- Use a caliper to measure the inner edges of the jewelry to determine the diamond gauge size accurately.
4. What diamond gauge size should I get for diamond stud earrings?
- For diamond stud earrings, diamond gauge sizes of 18g to 20g are recommended, with 20g being the most common.
5. Is it important to choose the right diamond gauge size for a piercing?
- Yes, selecting the correct diamond gauge size is crucial as it affects both comfort and compatibility with the jewelry.