You measure gauges using calipers, which you can find at most hardware stores or online.
Using Calipers to Measure Gauges
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to accurately measure your ear gauge:
- Prepare the Calipers: Open the calipers wide enough to easily fit your jewelry through.
- Position the Jewelry: Place the jewelry between the jaws of the calipers.
- Adjust the Calipers: Close the calipers until they are snug against the jewelry. Make sure not to compress the jewelry. The goal is to get a gentle touch, not a tight squeeze.
- Read the Measurement: The measurement displayed on the calipers is your gauge size.
Why Use Calipers?
- Accuracy: Calipers provide precise measurements, ensuring you know the exact size of your gauge.
- Consistency: Unlike using a ruler or estimating, calipers give consistent results every time.
- Convenience: They're readily available and easy to use with a little practice.
Understanding Gauge Size
Gauge size refers to the thickness of your piercing jewelry. It’s often measured in millimeters (mm) or gauge (g), with gauge sizes becoming smaller as the number increases (e.g. a 16g is smaller than a 12g).
| Gauge Size (g) | Approximate Size (mm) |
|---|---|
| 18g | 1.0 mm |
| 16g | 1.2 mm |
| 14g | 1.6 mm |
| 12g | 2.0 mm |
| 10g | 2.4 mm |
| 8g | 3.2 mm |
| 6g | 4.0 mm |
| 4g | 5.0 mm |
| 2g | 6.0 mm |
| 0g | 8.0 mm |
| 00g | 10.0 mm |
Example: If your calipers show a measurement of approximately 1.6mm, your ear gauge is 14g.
By following these steps and using calipers, you can confidently and accurately measure your gauges.
