Belly Button Ring Size Guide: Gauge, Bar Length & How to Measure

Belly rings are one of the easiest pieces of jewelry to fall in love with and one of the easiest to buy in the wrong size. A bar that's too short digs in. One that's too long catches on everything. And a ring in the wrong gauge may not go through at all.

Here's how to check your size in a few minutes, so your next piece fits the first time.

The Three Measurements That Matter

Every belly ring comes down to three numbers:

1. Gauge: the thickness of the bar
2. Bar length: the distance between the top and bottom ends
3. Ball or gem size: the size of the top and bottom ends

Get these right and nearly any style will fit. Get one wrong and the piece will be uncomfortable or won't fit at all.

Gauge: Almost Always 14G

Standard navel piercings are 14G (1.6mm). Most belly rings are made in this size, so you're unlikely to need anything else. If your jewelry feels loose or you can't recall your size, check the listing for the piece you currently wear. For a refresher on how gauge numbers convert, our gauge to mm chart covers it.

Some people have a 12G or 16G navel piercing. If your ring doesn't slide through easily, check the gauge before you force anything.

Bar Length: The Size That Causes Most Problems

Bar length is the one people get wrong most often. The most common sizes are:

• 3/8" (10mm): the standard size for most healed navel piercings
• 7/16" (11mm): a slightly longer bar for thicker skin
• 1/2" (12mm): for deeper navels or if you experience swelling
• 5/16" (8mm): a shorter bar for a snug fit on a shallow navel

Fresh piercings are usually fitted with a longer bar, around 1/2", to allow for swelling. Once the piercing heals, you can switch to a shorter bar so the jewelry sits close to the skin and doesn't snag.

If your bar is too short: the ends press into the skin and may leave marks, redness or irritation. If your bar is too long:the jewelry moves around, catches on clothing and can irritate the piercing.

How to Measure Your Bar Length

You can measure at home in a few steps:

1. Remove your current ring (only if the piercing is fully healed).
2. Measure the straight bar from end to end with a ruler or calipers, not including the ends.
3. Compare it to the sizes above. The listing for the piece you want should show the bar length.

If it's too tight, go up one size. If it's loose and moves around, go down one.

If you can't remove it: a piercer can measure it for you in a couple of minutes, usually for free.

Ball and Gem Size

The top and bottom ends come in different sizes, usually 5mm for the top ball and a larger end for the bottom decoration, such as a dangle or a charm.

• Top ball (inside the navel): 5mm is the standard size, and 8mm is a larger, more visible option
• Bottom end: this varies by style. Larger gems and dangles look bold, but they also catch on clothing more easily

If you want a piece that stays comfortable all day, choose a smaller bottom gem or a short dangle. If you want a statement piece, choose a dangle or a decorated end.

Dangles vs. Studs vs. Curved Barbells

Dangle belly rings: a drop hangs below the navel. They look dramatic, but you'll notice the weight and movement if you're active.

Studs and short bottom ends: a more subtle look, and they stay comfortable under tight clothing.

Curved barbells: the classic navel shape, and the one most piercers use for fresh piercings.

Tips for Buying the Right Size

• Check your current jewelry first. The best way to find your size is to measure something you already wear comfortably.
• Buy a size up if you're unsure and your piercing is new. Swelling can change your size, and a longer bar is safer than one that's too short.
• Choose a material that suits your skin. Titanium and surgical steel are common choices, and titanium is the safest if your skin is sensitive.
• Never force a ring in. If it won't slide through, stop and check the gauge.

Shop Your Size

Every belly ring at Skin Metals lists the gauge and bar length up front, so you can shop with the right numbers. Browse the full collection, from Victorian dangles to sparkly CZ styles. Shipping in the US is free, with no minimum.