Visualizing the Size of an 8mm Earring
When shopping for earrings, you’ll often see sizing described in millimeters (mm). But what does an 8mm earring actually look like? Understanding earring measurements helps you buy the size that’s right for you.
The Millimeter Scale
Earrings are measured across their widest point from the front, stated in millimeters. This diameter refers to the inner circumference of hoops or the length of studs.
8mm equals 0.31 inches or about 1/3 of an inch in diameter. To visualize it another way:
- The tip of a new pencil eraser is around 8mm wide
- An American dime coin is right around 8mm across
- 8mm is slightly smaller than the size of an average shirt button
So an 8mm earring style will have an inner width of about 1/3 inch.
Typical Sizes
Here are common earring sizes and their millimeter dimensions:
- Extra small/petite: 10mm or under
- Small: 10-12mm
- Medium: 13-15mm
- Large: 16-18mm
- Extra large: 18mm+
Standard earring sizes tend to range from 10mm to 18mm. An 8mm pair falls on the petite end of the scale.
Factors That Determine Size
Considerations for 8mm earrings:
- Piercing placement
- Lobe thickness
- Single vs. double piercings
- Earring style (hoop, stud, etc.)
- Personal preference
An 8mm hoop may look different than an 8mm stud on the same ear. Measure lobes to find the right fit.
Trying 8mm Earring Styles
Here are some earring types that commonly come in 8mm sizes:
- Studs – Diamond, gemstone, geometric
- Hoops – Plain rounded, huggies
- Drops – Czech crystal, freshwater pearl
- Climbers – Double cuff style
- Ear jackets – With detachable dangles
Delicate earring designs often come in smaller 8mm sizes. Bolder styles may overpower petite ears.
Achieving Balance
In the end, the “right” earring size comes down to balance. An 8mm pair should feel proportional to your ears and facial features. Smaller earrings can highlight your natural beauty, while larger ones make more of a style statement. Find the perfect fit that reflects your personal style.
FAQs about Size of an 8mm Earring
A 5/16” (8mm) hoop is a great size for cartilage piercings if you want the hoop to hang down just a bit. This size is also good for tragus piercings if you want a looser fit!
5/16 inch
8mm = 5/16 inch.
“Standard size is 18 g, which is what I mostly use for all my ear piercings,” Thompson says. “For piercings in general, 18 g through 16 g is the most common. For nipple or navel piercings, 14 g through 12 g is the most common.
The default bar length is 6 mm. The most common ball and stone sizes are 3 mm for a ball and 4 mm for a stone. For an earring hole, the most common thickness is 0.8 mm. Some earring holes may even fit bars with a 1.0 mm thickness.