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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.

GaugeMillimetersTypical Use
20G0.8mmVery thin jewelry
18G1.0mmThin septum rings
16G1.2mmStandard septum piercing size
14G1.6mmThicker jewelry
12G2.0mmStretching septum
septum piercing size guide chart gauge comparison 14g 16g 18g

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.

DiameterFitAppearance
6mmSnugMinimal look
8mmStandardMost common diameter
10mmLooseMore visible ring
12mmLargeBold statement jewelry
septum piercing sizes chart ring diameter 6mm 8mm 10mm

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


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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Some people gradually increase their septum gauge through stretching.
For example:

18G → 16G → 14G → 12G

Stretching should always be done slowly to avoid irritation.