$2 Flat Rate Shipping on all orders!

What Is the Smallest Gauge Earring? A Comprehensive Guide

Earrings reflect personal identity, cultural heritage, and fashion trends, and these beautiful pieces of jewellery worn on ears are gender neutral. 

However, one essential detail that’s often overlooked is the gauge size, this is the measurement that determines how thick an earring post is. Understanding what constitutes the smallest gauge earring helps ensure a secure, comfortable fit and preserves the health of your piercings.

smallest-gauge-earring-guide

thick matte gold hoop earrings, bubs & sass

How Earring Gauges Are Measured

The term gauge refers to the diameter of the earring post or wire. As opposed to what’s commonly assumed, gauge numbers work inversely. That is, the higher the gauge number, the thinner the jewelry. For example, a 22 gauge earring is thinner than a 20 gauge earring.

Standard Gauge Sizes:

  • 18 Gauge (1.0 mm): Common in cartilage piercings.

  • 20 Gauge (0.8 mm): Most standard for lobe piercings.

  • 22 Gauge (0.6 mm): Typically the smallest gauge used for healed piercings.

Jewelry thinner than 22 gauge is unusual in professional settings due to its fragility and higher likelihood of causing irritation.

Identifying the Smallest Gauge Earring

The smallest gauge earring most commonly available and suitable for long-term wear is 22 gauge, measuring about 0.6 millimeters in thickness. 

While some retailers do produce 24 gauge (0.5 mm) earrings, they’re not as recommended because their extremely fine posts can cause tearing and migration in the piercing channel.

Important Considerations:

  • Healing Stage: Smaller gauges are only recommended for fully healed piercings.

  • Material Strength: Thin wires require durable, high-grade metals.

  • Secure Fit: Lighter posts need reliable closures to avoid accidental loss.

Why Choose a Smaller Gauge?

There are practical and stylistic reasons to consider a smaller gauge earring:

  • Comfort: Slim posts exert less pressure on the piercing site.

  • Discreetness: Finer gauges are subtler, making them ideal for conservative environments.

  • Sensitivity: Some individuals with sensitive tissue prefer thinner jewelry to minimize irritation.

Note:  Smaller gauges are unsuitable during the healing period because they don’t provide enough structural support.

Gauge Size Comparison Chart

Gauge Size

Millimeters (mm)

24

0.5

22

0.6

20

0.8

18

1.0

16

1.2

14

1.6

Note: 22 gauge sits at the smallest end of the spectrum for everyday use.

What Materials Work Best for the Smallest Gauge Earrings?

Choosing the right material for thin posts is critical. Small gauge earrings must be both strong and hypoallergenic to prevent deformation and allergic reactions.

Best Materials:

  • Surgical Stainless Steel: Common in piercing jewelry for its durability and low reactivity.

  • 14k or 18k Gold: Softer than titanium or steel, but safe if alloyed properly.

  • Brass: Although this antimicrobial material is safe itself, it’s usually plated with gold or silver.

Note: Always avoid low-grade alloys, which can cause allergies and infections, and are not even durable. 

Choosing the Right Backings for Small Gauge Earrings

Small gauge earrings need special closures to sit well once on. Here are the most common earring closures that secure earrings on your ears:

  • Screw Backs: Lock in place with threads, reducing the chance of losing the earring.

  • Silicone Backs: Soft and flexible, creating a snug fit on thin posts.

  • Locking Backs: Engineered mechanisms that stay secure even during physical activity.

  • Hinge backs: Have hinged posts that snap onto a groove to sit in place.  

  • Tube closure: Offers a seamless look, such as in the case of hoops and huggie earrings

Caring for Small Gauge Earrings

Maintenance is crucial to prolonging the life of thin jewelry and preserving piercing health:

  • Clean Regularly: after each use, wipe posts and the piercing area with a saline or an antiseptic solution.

  • Inspect Closures: Always check that the backing is secure after putting on the earring.

  • Avoid Excessive Movement: Remove earrings during rigorous activities like sports or before sleeping to prevent bending.

Consistent care keeps both your jewelry and piercings in optimal condition.

Selecting the Right Gauge for Your Needs

Consider these factors when choosing your earring gauge:

  • Healing Stage: Never insert small gauge jewelry in a fresh piercing.

  • Personal Style: Thinner gauges work well for subtle, minimalist looks.

  • Activity Level: If you lead an active lifestyle, sturdier gauges are safer.

  • Allergies: Prioritize hypoallergenic metals like stainless steel, or brass that’s gold or silver plated.

Final Thoughts

The smallest gauge earring commonly available for everyday wear is 22 gauge. This delicate size offers a refined, lightweight option for fully healed piercings. 

However, small gauge earrings require careful material selection, secure closures, and diligent hygiene. By understanding gauge sizing and maintenance, you can choose earrings that blend elegance with safety and wear them with confidence.

For a wide range of earring selection that’s made from highest quality materials, choose bubs & sass.