The Ultimate Guide to Stretched Ear Jewelry: Styles, Sizing & Where to Shop

Stretched ears aren’t just a trend—they're a bold expression of identity, culture, and personal style. Whether you're new to stretching ear piercings or rocking a full collection of ear hangers, ear tunnels, and septum jewelry, finding the right stretched ear jewelry matters. Not just for aesthetics, but for comfort, safety, and showing up exactly how you want to.

As someone who’s been on the stretched ear journey for nearly a decade (I started at 16g and now wear 5/8"), I can tell you: PunkPlugs is hands down the brand I trust the most. Their designs, materials, and prices are unmatched in the space—and they’re made by people who actually stretch, not just corporate trend-chasers.

Whether you’re already deep into the scene or just curious about how to get started, this guide is for you.

What Is Stretched Ear Jewelry?

Stretched ear jewelry is any type of body jewelry worn in an intentionally stretched lobe piercing. It comes in many shapes, sizes, and materials, and is designed to fit and feel good in ear gauges of varying diameters—from 14g all the way to 1” and beyond.

Types of Stretched Ear Jewelry

There’s a wide range of styles that fall under the stretched ear jewelry umbrella:

• Gauge and plugs – Solid pieces that sit in the lobe, usually made from stone, metal, or wood.
• Plugs and tunnels – Tunnels are hollow versions of plugs and often used to show off large gauge sizes.
• Ear weights – Statement pieces that hang from stretched ears and may gently pull down on the lobe for visual impact.
• Hangers and spirals – More artistic or sculptural styles for added flair.
• Septum jewelry – Not for your ears, but if you're stretching piercings in multiple places, PunkPlugs has matching styles to tie it all together.

Why Choose PunkPlugs for Your Stretched Ear Jewelry?

I've tried plenty of brands—from mall kiosks to overpriced boutique shops—and most fell short either in comfort or quality. Once I tried PunkPlugs, I never looked back. They make jewelry specifically for stretched piercings, not just generic “alternative accessories.”

Quality Materials That Actually Feel Good

The last thing you want is itchy, irritated lobes. PunkPlugs uses skin-safe, high-quality materials like:

• Surgical steel – Great for healing and long-term wear.
• Silicone – Flexible and breathable, perfect for sleep or gym days.
• Glass – Super smooth and hypoallergenic.
• Wood and stone – Beautiful, natural materials that add weight and texture.

How to Start Stretching Your Ears Safely

Starting your stretching ear piercing journey takes time, patience, and the right gear. If you try to rush it, you risk tearing, infection, and other complications. Luckily, PunkPlugs makes it easy with stretching kits and a helpful blog full of real advice.

Step-by-Step Stretching Tips

1. Start with healed piercings – Only stretch piercings that have fully healed (at least 6–8 weeks old).
2. Go up one size at a time – Avoid skipping sizes, no matter how tempting.
3. Use tapers with lubrication – PunkPlugs offers smooth stainless steel tapers in all sizes.
4. Take your time – Wait at least 4–6 weeks between each size to avoid blowouts.
5. Clean regularly – Gentle saline soaks and quality aftercare go a long way.

Sizing Guide for Gauge and Plugs

Understanding ear gauges can be confusing at first. Sizes start small and go larger as the gauge number decreases. Here’s a quick breakdown of common sizes:

• 16g – 1.2mm (starter size for most piercings)
• 14g, 12g, 10g – Early stretching stages
• 8g–2g – Intermediate levels
• 0g (8mm) – Popular milestone size
• 00g (10mm) – Often considered the “point of no return”
• 1/2” (12.7mm) and beyond – For those who go big

PunkPlugs carries all of these and more, so you’re never stuck trying to find that weird in-between size.

Style It Your Way with Plugs, Tunnels & Weights

Once you’re comfortable in your current size, it’s time to play with style. Whether you lean toward minimalist black tunnels or love ornate ear weights, there’s no wrong way to wear your stretch.

Best Styles from PunkPlugs

• Stone plugs – Like tiger’s eye, obsidian, or rose quartz for natural flair.
• Silicone tunnels – Lightweight and comfy, ideal for everyday wear.
• Brass ear weights – Detailed, dramatic, and full of personality.
• Glow-in-the-dark plugs – Yes, they’re as fun as they sound.

Don’t Forget the Septum (And Other Piercings!)

A great thing about PunkPlugs is that they don’t just stop at ears. If you’ve got a septum piercing, nostril, or eyebrow ring, they’ve got punk jewelry pieces to match your plugs or weights. Having a cohesive look across your piercings just levels up your whole vibe.

Their septum jewelry comes in surgical steel, brass, and titanium—safe for sensitive skin and designed to make a statement.

Where to Buy the Best Stretched Ear Jewelry Online

You can buy PunkPlugs’ full collection directly from their website: PunkPlugs.com. It’s a user-friendly shop that drops new designs regularly and even runs seasonal sales. They offer fast shipping, clear size charts, and responsive customer service.

If you’re looking to build your collection or finally treat your ears to something better than mass-produced junk, this is where to start.

Final Thoughts: Your Ears Deserve Better

Stretched ear jewelry isn’t just about size—it’s about style, comfort, and self-expression. Whether you’re a longtime plug-wearer or just starting to stretch, PunkPlugs has everything you need to make the journey your own.

Skip the knock-offs and give your lobes (and nose, and brows...) jewelry that actually feels as good as it looks.