Nose Pin Size and Fit Guide: Gauge, Post and Stone

A nose pin has to be small to be comfortable, and a small error in size can make it irritating. Here is what to look at when you choose one.

Post thickness (gauge)

The post is the part that passes through the piercing. Its thickness is often given as a gauge, and a higher gauge number means a thinner post. Nose studs are commonly made around 0.8 mm (20 gauge), and some are a little thinner, around 0.6 mm (22 gauge). Your piercing was made at a particular thickness. Use a pin of the same thickness. A pin that is too thick is hard to insert, and one that is too thin can move and irritate.

If you are unsure, ask the person who pierced you, or ask a jeweller to measure your current pin.

Post length

The length of the post must suit the thickness of your nostril wall. Too short and it presses uncomfortably. Too long and it sticks out inside the nose or catches on things. Many pins are made for an average fit, and a jeweller can adjust the length.

Stone size

The visible stone is typically a few millimetres across. Small diamonds of about 1.5 to 2.5 mm look delicate. A larger stone of 3 mm or more is more noticeable. On a small nose, a modest stone is usually most flattering.

Backing

• Bent or L-shaped posts hold themselves in place.
• Screw posts twist into position.
• Ball or disc backs hold a straight post in place.

Make sure the back is smooth and comfortable inside the nostril.

How a pin should feel

It should sit flush with the skin without pressing, move very slightly without falling, and not cause redness or swelling. If it is uncomfortable, a different size or style usually fixes it.

When the piercing is new

A new piercing needs time to settle in, and your piercer will advise a suitable first piece. Do not swap the jewellery until it has fully healed, and keep to their aftercare instructions. If you notice persistent redness, swelling or discharge, see a doctor.

Materials and sensitivity

If your skin reacts to certain metals, choose a pin of a metal you tolerate. See skin sensitivity and jewellery metals explained.

Choosing a style

For the shapes, see nose pin styles: stud, ring and nath. For the stone, see how to choose a diamond nose pin.

Care

Clean the pin gently with warm water and a soft cloth. Take it out only when you need to, and wash your hands before handling it. See how to clean gold jewellery at home.

Common questions

Can I use an earring in my nose? Do not. Earring posts are not made for the nostril and may not fit or be safe.

How tight should a nose pin be? Snug without pressure.

Can I change the length of a pin? A jeweller can often shorten the post.

If you are ordering without trying

Write down the thickness and length of your current pin, and the diameter of its stone. These three numbers, with the back type, are all a jeweller needs to match a new one. Measure with a ruler in millimetres, since a small difference is easy to miss by eye. If the new pin feels different from the old one, tell the shop; a small adjustment is usually possible.

See our range

Our nose pins list their sizes on each page, and you can book an appointment to be measured.