Ear Gauge Size Chart: Complete mm to Gauge Conversion Guide
Not sure what size you actually are — or what size to buy next? This ear gauge size chart converts gauge numbers to millimeters (and inches), so you can shop with confidence whether you’re just starting out or working toward a larger stretch.
What Is an Ear Gauge Size?
If you’re new to ear stretching, the gauge sizing system can feel backwards at first — and that’s because it is. Unlike most measurement systems, where a larger number indicates a larger size, gauge numbers work in reverse: the higher the gauge number, the smaller the diameter.
A standard earlobe piercing is typically 20g (0.8 mm). When you begin stretching, you move down in gauge numbers — from 20g to 18g to 16g and so on. Once you pass 00g (10mm), the gauge system no longer applies, and sizes are simply listed in millimeters or inches.
Keep this rule of thumb in mind: higher gauge = smaller hole, lower gauge = larger hole.
Complete Ear Gauge Size Chart (mm to Gauge)
Use this chart to find your current size or plan your next stretch. Sizes are grouped by experience level to help you gauge where you are in your journey.
Starter Sizes (Standard Piercing to First Stretch)
| Gauge | Millimeters | Inches | Notes |
| 20g | 0.8 mm | 1/32″ | Standard earlobe piercing size |
| 18g | 1.0 mm | — | Slightly larger than standard |
| 16g | 1.2 mm | — | Common first stretch size |
| 14g | 1.6 mm | 1/16″ | Recommended starting point for ear stretching |
Beginner to Intermediate (Early Stretching)
| Gauge | Millimeters | Inches | Notes |
| 12g | 2.0 mm | 5/64″ | Roughly the width of a pencil lead |
| 10g | 2.4 mm | 3/32″ | — |
| 8g | 3.0 mm | 1/8″ | — |
| 6g | 4.0 mm | 5/32″ | About the width of a standard straw |
| 4g | 5.0 mm | 3/16″ | — |
| 2g | 6.0 mm | 1/4″ | Roughly pencil-width |
Intermediate to Advanced
| Gauge | Millimeters | Inches | Notes |
| 0g | 8.0 mm | 5/16″ | — |
| 00g | 10 mm | 3/8″ | The most common “milestone” size for many stretchers |
Large Gauges (mm sizing takes over after 00g)
Important: Once you pass 00g (10mm), gauge numbers stop. Sizes are listed in millimeters or inches only from this point on. There is no “000g.”
| Millimeters | Inches | Notes |
| 12 mm | 1/2″ | — |
| 14 mm | 9/16″ | — |
| 16 mm | 5/8″ | Approximately the diameter of a one-cent coin |
| 19 mm | 3/4″ | — |
| 22 mm | 7/8″ | — |
| 25 mm | 1″ | A major milestone size for many wearers |
| 28 mm | 1 1/8″ | — |
| 32 mm | 1 1/4″ | — |
| 38 mm | 1 1/2″ | — |
| 50 mm | 2″ | Specialist/experienced wearers only |
How to Measure Your Current Ear Gauge Size
Not sure what size you’re currently at? Here’s how to measure accurately before ordering.
Method 1: Use a Digital Caliper (Most Accurate)
A digital caliper is the most reliable tool for measuring your current gauge. Here’s how:
- Gently remove your current plug or tunnel.
- Measure the diameter of the wearable area — the part that sits inside your ear, not the flare.
- Note the measurement in millimeters.
- Match it to the chart above.
Method 2: Use a Flexible Tape or String
If you don’t have a caliper? Never mind! Try this:
- Wrap a soft tape measure or a thin strip of paper around the plug at its widest wearable point.
- Note the circumference, then divide by π (3.14) to get the diameter.
- Match to the size chart.
Common Measuring Mistakes
- Measuring the flare instead of the wearable area. The flared edge is always wider than the actual plug size — always measure the inner shaft.
- Confusing outer and inner diameter on tunnels. For hollow tunnels, measure the outer diameter of the wearable area, not the hollow opening.
Gauge vs mm: Which Should You Use When Shopping?
When buying ear plugs online, this is one of the most common points of confusion — Different sellers use different systems.
- North American brands typically list sizes by gauge (e.g., 2g, 0g, 00g).
- European and Asian sellers (including many independent jewelers and factory-direct brands like us) typically list sizes in millimeters.
Neither system is wrong — they’re just different conventions. Before purchasing, always check:
- Which unit the listing uses (gauge or mm).
- Whether there’s a size chart provided by the seller.
- The exact mm measurement if you’re between sizes.
When in doubt, go by millimeters. It’s a universal measurement that leaves no room for confusion.
What Size Should You Start With?
If you’re new to ear stretching, 14g (1.6 mm) is the most recommended starting size — it’s just one step above a standard piercing, making the initial stretch manageable for most people.
If your piercing is already slightly larger than standard (common with older piercings or those done with thicker needles), you might be able to start at 12g or 10g. When in doubt, measure first.
The golden rule: never skip sizes. Moving up one size at a time and waiting at least 4–6 weeks between stretches gives your tissue the time it needs to heal properly. Rushing the process increases your risk of a blowout (a tear in the earlobe tissue), which is both painful and difficult to repair.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Gauge Size
The material you choose matters — especially as your gauge size increases. Here’s a quick guide by size range:
Small Sizes (14g – 8g / 1.6mm – 3mm)
At smaller sizes, glass and surgical steel are the most recommended materials due to their non-porous surface and ease of sterilization. These are ideal during active stretching when your tissue is more sensitive.
Medium Sizes (6g – 00g / 4mm – 10mm)
Once your stretches have fully healed, you have more material options. Stone ear plugs — including obsidian, malachite, and amethyst — are a popular choice at this stage. Natural stone is non-porous, easy to clean, and adds a tactile weight that many wearers enjoy. Wood ear plugs also work well here, offering a lightweight, organic feel.
Large Sizes (12mm and above)
At larger gauges, weight becomes a real consideration. Wood ear plugs are often the go-to choice because of how light they are — important for long-term comfort at bigger sizes. Resin ear plugs are another excellent option, offering bold colors and patterns while remaining lightweight. Stone plugs are still wearable at large sizes, though heavier stone varieties may cause fatigue with extended wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most commonly worn “end goal” size is 00g (10mm), sometimes called the “point of no return” — though this is a myth for most people. Many wearers stretch to 00g and stay there. It’s large enough to be visually striking but still manageable for everyday life.
At minimum, wait 4–6 weeks between stretches. Many experienced stretchers recommend waiting 2–3 months, especially at larger sizes where the tissue is under more stress. The skin should feel loose and comfortable at your current size before you move up.
For sizes up to around 00g (10mm), many people find their ears shrink back significantly — sometimes fully — if they stop wearing plugs. Above 10 mm, full closure becomes much less likely, though this varies from person to person depending on genetics, skin elasticity, and how long you’ve been stretched.
A plug is solid all the way through. A tunnel (also called an eyelet) is hollow, with an open center. Both fit stretched ears in the same sizes — it’s purely a visual and style preference.
It doesn’t — 0g (8mm) is actually smaller than 00g (10mm). The “00” designation means “double zero,” and it’s simply the next step up from 0g in the traditional gauge system. Think of it like clothing sizes: 0 and 00 are their own distinct sizes, not fractions.
Find Your Perfect Pair
Now that you know your size, browse our full collection of natural gemstone and organic ear plugs — available in sizes from 6mm (2G) through 32mm, sold in pairs.
- Stone Ear Plugs — obsidian, malachite, dinosaur bone fossil, amethyst, and more
- Wood Ear Plugs — lightweight organic styles in wenge, sono, and more
- Resin Ear Plugs — bold colors, floral patterns, and unique designs
Every pair at Auralith Plug is handcrafted from natural materials, polished to a smooth finish, and sold in pairs with size options clearly listed in both gauge and mm.
Have a question about sizing that isn’t covered here? Contact us — we’re happy to help you find the right fit.