Find Your Fit
Finding your size can be daunting at first, we're here to help! Whether you're at 14g or 2", this guide has everything you need: a gauge to mm and inch chart, how to measure what you're already wearing, and the fit quirks of keyholes and spreaders. Still not sure? Send a message and photo to lobaldomination@yahoo.com and we will measure it for you. We'd rather help you get it right the first time than have you wait on a return.
Ear Gauge Size Chart
Measure the part that sits in your ear, not the flares. Sizes run from 22g (0.6 mm) up to 2" (51 mm).
How to Measure Your Size
The easiest way to find your size is to measure jewelry that already fits. Always measure the wearable area, the straight part that sits inside your lobe, not the flared ends.
Measuring at home
- Use a digital caliper if you have one. Otherwise, a ruler with millimeter marks works.
- Measure across the wearable area of a plug or tunnel you currently wear comfortably.
- Match that number to the mm column in the chart above.
- Between two sizes? Go with the smaller one. It's easier to wear a slightly snug piece than one that slips out.
Let us measure for you
Not sure? Email us a message and photo to lobaldomination@yahoo.com. A photo isn't as precise as measuring in person, but following these steps gets remarkably close, and it can save you a return.
- Lay it flat. Put the jewelry and a ruler or tape measure on a flat surface. Don't hold either one.
- Turn plugs on their side. We need to see the wearable area, not just the flare. (See example photo below.)
- Set it next to the ruler, not on top of it. Line the wearable area up against the ruler's edge.
- Use a ruler, not a caliper. Calipers are often out of calibration. The ruler on a caliper's arm is fine.
- Shoot from directly above. Any angle distorts the measurement.
- Keep it clear. Use good light and a background that contrasts with the jewelry, so the edges are easy to see.
Plugs vs Tunnels: What's the Difference?
Plugs are solid all the way through. Tunnels (also called eyelets) are hollow in the center, so you can see through them. Both come in the same sizes, so your size doesn't change when you switch styles.
Single flare vs double flare
Double-flare jewelry flares out on both ends and holds itself in place. Single-flare jewelry has one flared end and is held in with an O-ring on the back. Double flares can take a little more stretch to put in, so if your lobe is snug, single flare or a size down may be easier.
Sizing Tips for Keyholes & Spreaders
Keyhole plugs
Keyholes are sized at the spot where they hang in your lobe. To get them on, though, you slide your lobe over the prong, and its widest point is about one size larger. If you don't have much stretch to spare, order one size down.
Spreaders
Spreaders have big flares and a curved shape, so they can feel tighter than a plug in the same size. Consider ordering one size smaller than you normally wear.
Fit & Sizing FAQ
What size is 00g in mm? 00g is 10 mm, or 3/8".
What size comes after 00g? 7/16" (11 mm). After 00g, sizes switch from gauges to inches.
Is 0g bigger than 2g? Yes. With gauges, a smaller number means a bigger size: 2g is 6 mm and 0g is 8 mm.
Do I measure the flare? No. Measure the straight wearable area that sits inside your lobe.
Are plugs and tunnels sized the same? Yes. A 1/2" plug and a 1/2" tunnel fit the same piercing.
What if I'm between sizes? Size down. Sizes can vary slightly from maker to maker, and a little snug is easier to wear than too loose.
Can you tell me my size from a photo? Yes. Follow our photo steps above and send it to us. We'll take it from there.