The thickness of the wire used in body jewelry, particularly that worn in the nasal piercing, is measured in gauge. A smaller gauge number indicates a thicker piece of jewelry, while a larger gauge number represents a thinner piece. For instance, 18 gauge jewelry is thicker than 20 gauge jewelry.
Understanding the dimensions of jewelry is crucial for comfort, healing, and minimizing the risk of piercing migration or rejection. Selecting the appropriate dimension helps to maintain the integrity of the piercing site and ensures a secure and aesthetically pleasing fit. Historically, the size of ornamentation could also signify status or cultural affiliation, and while less prevalent today, awareness of sizing standards remains important.
