Conch Earrings

Shop conch earrings at SkinKandy, in titanium, surgical steel and 14K gold, for inner and outer conch piercings.

A conch earring is jewellery worn in the conch piercing, which sits in the cup-shaped hollow of cartilage in the middle of your ear, and the right style depends on whether your piercing is fresh or fully healed.

Types of conch jewellery

  • Flatbacks: the recommended style for a fresh conch piercing, in 6mm or 8mm post lengths.
  • Ballbacks: another popular option for the conch, also in 6mm or 8mm post lengths.
  • Conch rings and hoops: segment rings in 10mm or 12mm diameters, worn once your conch is fully healed.

Conch jewellery for fresh vs healed piercings

Fresh conch piercing Healed conch piercing
Best style Flatback Flatback, ballback or segment ring
Gauge 16G 16G
Size 6mm or 8mm post 6mm or 8mm post, or 10mm or 12mm ring

How long does a conch piercing take to heal?

Conch piercings typically take 6 to 12 months to fully heal, as they pass through a thick section of ear cartilage. Consistent aftercare is important throughout this time. Keep your original jewellery in place and avoid changing it until your piercing specialist confirms your conch has healed. If you notice any irritation or have questions during healing, visit your nearest SkinKandy studio for a check-up.

What size jewellery do I need for a conch piercing?

Conch piercings are pierced at 16G. For flatbacks and ballbacks, post lengths are typically 6mm or 8mm depending on your anatomy and healing stage. If you're choosing a segment ring for a healed conch, the standard diameters are 10mm or 12mm. Your piercing specialist will select the right size on the day and let you know when it's time to downsize.

Can I wear a conch ring or conch hoop?

Yes, once your conch piercing is fully healed you can wear a conch ring or conch hoop in a segment ring style. Rings aren't suitable for fresh conch piercings because the movement can irritate the healing cartilage and slow things down. A flatback or ballback is the best choice while your piercing heals. When you're ready to switch, our piercing specialists can help you find the right ring diameter for your ear.

Which material is best for a conch piercing?

Our piercing specialists recommend implant grade Titanium or 14K Gold during the healing phase, and both are good choices if you have sensitive skin. Surgical Steel can also be used in a fresh conch piercing, though it can contain traces of nickel. Whichever material you choose, make sure the gauge and post length match your piercing.

How does a conch piercing fit into an ear curation?

The conch sits in the centre of your ear, making it a natural anchor point for a curated setup. It pairs well with a helix above it and a tragus in front for a balanced look. Adding lobe piercings below brings everything together. Mixing decorative tops across your placements lets you create a look that's completely yours. Check out our ear curation guide for styling ideas, or read our beginner's guide to conch piercing for a deep dive into this placement.

Book a piercing at SkinKandy

Thinking about adding a conch to your ear curation? Our piercing specialists will help you with placement, jewellery selection and sizing. Browse our piercing menu and book your experience at SkinKandy.