What earring size suits a second or third piercing?

ZKZ Editorial TeamMain answer · Product & gemmology desk

For new piercings, ask the piercer to choose the initial jewelry and its post length, because swelling and healing need room and approved materials. Once healed, choose studs and small hoops whose size suits the space on your lobe and the earrings already there. A smaller stone above a larger one is a common balanced pattern, but it is a style choice.

New piercings

Fact The Association of Professional Piercers lists materials it considers suitable for initial piercings, such as implant-grade metals, and sterling silver is not on that list. It also says that vermeil and plated jewelry are not acceptable for initial piercings.

Our advice So wait for your piercer's advice and until the piercing is healed before wearing sterling silver earrings in it. Healing times and care depend on the piercing and the person.

Healed piercings: choosing the size

1. Look at the lobe. There needs to be enough room between piercings so that studs do not touch or overlap. A piercer can place them to suit your ear.
2. Choose a stud size to suit. A smaller stone often works best for the second and third holes, with a larger one in the first. Use your first earring as a guide and try a ruler or a size chart to see how it looks.
3. Check the post length. A post that is too short presses on the lobe, and one that is too long moves around. Choose a length that fits comfortably, and ask your piercer if you are unsure.
4. Check the backs. Friction backs that fit the post well, and are not too tight, are more comfortable.
5. Think about weight. A light stud is easier for several piercings. A heavy drop earring may pull the lobe.

Balance and style

• A graduated set, with the largest stud lowest or nearest the centre, is a classic look.
• Matching sizes in a row can look neat and modern.
• Mixing metals or stones is a style choice, and works best when the pieces look deliberate.

Care

Our advice Clean the posts and backs, and take the earrings out to wash, if your piercer says the piercing is healed enough to do so. Stop wearing an earring that makes the ear sore, red or swollen, and ask your piercer or a doctor.

It depends There is no single right size. It depends on the lobe, the piercings, and your taste.

Uncertain We cannot say whether your piercing is ready for any given earring, which only a piercer can judge.

Related reading: Ear Stacking With Sterling Silver: A Practical Guide · Diamond Stud Size Guide: 0.5 ct to 3 ct on the Ear

Sources

• Association of Professional Piercers, Jewelry for initial piercings
• Association of Professional Piercers, jewelry standards

Fact = stated by the cited source. Our advice = editorial recommendation. Uncertain / it depends = limits of what can be said in general.