Septum Piercing Sizes: Complete Gauge & Ring Diameter Guide
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Septum Piercing Sizes: Complete Gauge & Ring Diameter Guide
Quick answer: The most common septum piercing size is 16G (1.2mm). Some people wear 18G (1.0mm) for thinner jewelry or 14G (1.6mm) for a thicker look.
Septum Piercing Size Chart (Gauge to mm)
This chart shows the most common septum piercing sizes and their millimeter equivalents.
| Gauge | Millimeters | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20G | 0.8mm | Very thin jewelry |
| 18G | 1.0mm | Thin septum rings |
| 16G | 1.2mm | Standard septum piercing size |
| 14G | 1.6mm | Thicker jewelry |
| 12G | 2.0mm | Stretching septum |

Important: In piercing measurements, the smaller the gauge number, the thicker the jewelry.
What Is the Standard Septum Piercing Size?
The standard septum piercing size is usually 16 gauge (1.2mm). Many professional piercers use this size because it balances durability and healing comfort.
Some studios may pierce with 14G if thicker jewelry is preferred, while others may use 18G for thinner jewelry.
What Gauge Is a Septum Piercing?
- 16G (1.2mm) – the most common size
- 14G (1.6mm) – thicker jewelry
- 18G (1.0mm) – thinner jewelry
Septum Ring Diameter Chart
Besides gauge, septum rings also have a diameter that determines how the ring sits under the nose.
| Diameter | Fit | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| 6mm | Snug | Minimal look |
| 8mm | Standard | Most common diameter |
| 10mm | Loose | More visible ring |
| 12mm | Large | Bold statement jewelry |

What Size Septum Ring Should I Get?
Most people wear one of these combinations:
- 16G + 8mm – standard everyday size
- 16G + 10mm – slightly larger appearance
- 14G + 8–10mm – thicker jewelry style
Expert Tips for Choosing Septum Jewelry
- Choose high-quality metals like titanium or surgical steel
- Avoid rings that feel too tight
- Consult a professional piercer before stretching
- Clean your piercing regularly during healing
Related Septum Piercing Guides
- Do Septum Piercings Hurt?
- How to Clean a Septum Piercing
- Septum Piercing Healing Time
- Septum Piercing Styles
- How Much Does a Septum Piercing Cost?
Shop Septum Jewelry
Frequently Asked Questions About Septum Piercing Sizes
What Size Is a Septum Piercing?
The most common septum piercing size is 16 gauge (1.2mm). Some piercers also use 14G (1.6mm) for thicker jewelry or 18G (1.0mm) for thinner rings.
What Is the Standard Septum Piercing Size?
The standard septum piercing size used by most professional piercers is 16G (1.2mm). This size offers a good balance between durability, comfort, and compatibility with most septum jewelry styles.
What Gauge Is A Spetum Piercing?
A septum piercing is typically done with one of these gauges:
16G (1.2mm) – most common
14G (1.6mm) – thicker jewelry
18G (1.0mm) – thinner rings
If you’re unsure about your size, a professional piercer can measure your jewelry for you
What Size Septum Ring Should I Get?
Most people wear a 16G ring with an 8mm or 10mm diameter.
The exact size depends on your nose anatomy and the style of jewelry you prefer.
How Can I Measure My Septum Piercing Size at Home?
You can measure your septum piercing size using a digital caliper or gauge card.
Measure the inner diameter of your ring and check the gauge thickness to determine your exact septum size.
Why Might My Septum Ring Size Change Over Time?
Some people gradually increase their septum gauge through stretching.
For example:
18G → 16G → 14G → 12G
Stretching should always be done slowly to avoid irritation.