As jewelers with over 20 years of experience crafting fine gold and diamond earrings, we know every millimeter matters. Let’s help you find the hoops that suit you best.
How Hoop Earring Sizes Are Measured
When you see hoop earrings measurements in millimeters (mm), that number shows the diameter. This is the distance across the hoop from one side to the other.
It’s not the circumference or the width of the band, but the full outer size of the hoop.
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8mm hoops hug your earlobe tightly (often called huggies).
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12mm hoops sit just below your earlobe.
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15mm hoops add a little swing without being oversized.
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20mm hoops are the “classic medium” — elegant but noticeable.
At Leonids Jewelry, we design our gold hoop earrings to stay comfortable and lightweight no matter the size. Crafted from 14K solid gold and set with lab-grown diamonds, they’re built to last a lifetime without tarnishing or irritation.
Hoop Earring Size Chart (8mm–20mm)
Here’s a quick size guide to visualize how different hoops look when worn:
|
Size (mm) |
Style Name |
Placement on the Ear |
Best For |
|
8mm–10mm |
Huggies |
Hugs the lobe tightly |
Everyday minimalism, second piercings |
|
11mm–13mm |
Small Hoops |
Slightly below the lobe |
Workwear, subtle sparkle |
|
14mm–17mm |
Classic Hoops |
Noticeable, mid-size |
Balanced look for daily wear |
|
18mm–20mm |
Medium Hoops |
Slightly drops below the jawline |
Polished, versatile style |
Actual Hoop Size Chart on Ear: 8mm-20mm
8mm–10mm: The Tiny Huggies Everyone Loves
Huggie earrings (8–10mm) are your go-to for effortless, everyday style. They fit snugly around the earlobe, offering a subtle and polished look that complements any outfit.
They’re especially great for:
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Second piercings or multiple ear stacks
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People who prefer to sleep in their earrings
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Busy lifestyles that need low-maintenance jewelry
At Leonids, our Diamond Huggie Hoops are made from 14K solid gold and lab-grown diamonds.
If you have sensitive ears, these are a safe choice since all our hoops are nickel-free. For more on earring materials, visit our guide: Best Earring Material for Sensitive Ears (2025 Guide).
Styling Tip: Mix and match an 8mm diamond huggie with a modern drop earring for a layered ear stack.
11mm–13mm: Subtle Everyday Hoops
This size range is perfect for those who want something a little larger than a huggie but still wearable all day. They hang just below the lobe, catching light without feeling heavy.
Our gold and diamond mini hoops in this range are minimal, elegant, and designed to transition from day to night seamlessly.
They’re great for:
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Office wear and business casual looks
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Pairing with studs or small bezel diamond earrings
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Gifts for someone who loves understated style
Note: 11–13mm hoops are also popular as part of bridal ear stacks, complementing engagement rings without overpowering them.
14mm–17mm: Classic and Balanced
If you want one pair of hoops that do it all — this is your sweet spot. The 14–17mm range offers the ideal balance between subtle and statement.
These are the sizes most people consider “standard” hoop earrings, sitting slightly below the earlobe. They’re visible, flattering, and timeless.
At Leonids, we often recommend our 14mm Diamond Bezel Hoops for their refined glow. The bezel setting surrounds each diamond with gold, making them smooth, secure, and perfect for daily wear.
18mm–20mm: The Polished Medium Hoops
18–20mm hoops are the most versatile and flattering size for most face shapes. They sit just below the jawline and work beautifully with both casual and dressy outfits.
These are perfect for:
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Everyday wear with a touch of glam
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Short hairstyles or tied-up hair
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Layering with smaller hoops for a tiered look
Our 20mm Gold Hoops offer a sleek, modern profile while remaining lightweight enough for daily comfort.
If you prefer extra sparkle, our Diamond 20mm Hoops add the right amount of shine without overwhelming your look. Crafted with precision, they’re ideal for anyone who values craftsmanship and sustainability.
For a deeper understanding of the metals used in these designs, check our expert guide: White Gold vs Yellow Gold: Price, Color, Durability.
How to Choose the Right Hoop Earring Size
Here are a few tips to help you pick your ideal hoop size within the 8mm–20mm range:
1. Face Shape & Proportion
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Round faces: Choose 15–20mm hoops to elongate your features.
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Oval faces: You can wear any size — from tiny huggies to medium hoops.
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Heart-shaped faces: Go for 10–15mm to soften the chin line.
2. Hair Length
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Short hair / Updos: 8–12mm hoops for a sleek, balanced look.
- Long hair: 15–20mm hoops help stand out against your hair.
3. Comfort & Lifestyle
If you wear earrings every day or sleep in them, stick with huggies or smaller hoops (8–12mm). They stay put, feel weightless, and never snag.
If you like to change your jewelry every day or dress up for events, 15–20mm hoops look nice without being heavy.
How to Measure Hoop Earrings at Home
You can easily measure your hoop earrings with a ruler or soft measuring tape.
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Lay your hoop flat on a table.
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Measure the diameter straight across (not around the curve).
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Check the millimeters and match them to the chart above.
If you already own a pair you love, measure them to find your go-to size before shopping online.
For reference:
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8mm–10mm = tight hug around the lobe
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12mm–15mm = slight drop
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18mm–20mm = visible hoop below the jawline
Metal & Quality: Why It Matters
The best hoops stay bright, strong, and hypoallergenic. That’s why we only use solid 14K gold and lab-grown diamonds.
Lower-quality plating or mixed metals can cause tarnish, discoloration, or irritation to sensitive skin. If you want to learn about how materials perform, we have a guide for you. Check out our guide on the Best Earring Material for Sensitive Ears. It explains why solid gold is the best choice for long-term wear.
At Leonids, every hoop — from our 8mm huggies to 20mm statement pairs is built to last, backed by two decades of jewelry craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hoop earring size is all about balance: comfort, proportion, and style.
Finding the right earrings can quickly change your look. You might love the subtle sparkle of 8mm diamond huggies. Or you may prefer the classic style of 20mm gold hoops.
👉 Explore our Hoop Earrings Collection to find your perfect fit — from minimal huggies to medium gold hoops, designed to match your everyday style.
Author: Oggie Sam, Jewelry Specialist at Leonids. With over a decade of experience in jewelry design and gem expertise, she’s dedicated to helping you discover timeless pieces that match your style and story.
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