Nose studs, nose rings and septum rings sit in different places and give very different looks. If you’re deciding which to try, the choice often comes down to the look you like and how you like to wear your jewelry day to day.

This guide compares the three side by side. It’s a starting point rather than a rulebook, since every nose is a little different.

The short version

• Nose studs sit close to the nose and tend to look small and subtle.
• Nose rings, often called hoops, circle the nostril and tend to look more noticeable.
• Septum rings are worn at the centre of the nose, between the nostrils, and stand apart from the other two.
• If you’re unsure, start with the look you like, then check your size before you order.

Nose studs: small and close to the nose

A nose stud has a decorative front, a post that passes through the piercing, and a back that holds it in place. Because it sits close to the nose, it often reads as a small sparkle or a dot of color. Browse all our Nose Studs.

Studs come in a few styles, which differ in how they go in and how they’re held:

• Flat back labrets: the front unscrews or push-fits onto a post with a flat disc at the back.
• L shape studs: the post bends at an angle.
• Screw studs, also called corkscrew studs: the post curves in a spiral.
• Ball end studs: a simple ball forms the front.
• Retainers: simple pieces with no decorative front, often chosen for a less noticeable look.

Each style goes in a little differently, so it helps to see how a style works before you order. The By style table in our Size Guide sets them side by side.

You might like studs if you prefer a small, understated look, or enjoy small stones and shapes.

Nose rings: a classic circle

A nose ring circles the nostril. It’s easy to spot and tends to have a more graceful look than a stud. Browse all our Nose Rings

Rings come in a few styles:

• Seamless rings: a continuous ring that twists apart sideways.
• Clicker and segment rings: a hinged or removable segment lets the ring open and close.
• Open hoops: already open at one point.

Rings are measured by gauge and inner diameter, the width of the opening. A smaller ring sits closer to the nose, while a larger one hangs more loosely.

You might like rings if you enjoy a bolder look, or want a piece that frames the nostril.

Septum rings: worn at the centre

Septum rings are worn through the septum, the centre of the nose between the nostrils. They tend to stand out more than nostril jewelry because of where they sit. Browse all our Septum Rings

Two styles to know:

• Septum clickers: a hinged ring that clicks shut.
• Septum horseshoes: an open U shape with a ball at each end. The balls unscrew.

Septum pieces are often listed in a thicker gauge than nostril jewelry, so check the size on each product page rather than assuming sizes carry over.

You might like septum rings if you want a look that sits at the centre of the nose.

Compare at a glance

Style	Where it’s worn	Look	Common styles	Measured by
Nose stud	Nostril	Small, close to the nose	Flat back, L shape, screw, ball end, retainer	Gauge, post length, head size
Nose ring	Nostril	A circle around the nostril	Seamless, clicker and segment, open hoop	Gauge, inner diameter
Septum ring	Septum, the centre of the nose	Sits at the centre	Clicker, horseshoe	Gauge, inner diameter

Looks vary between pieces, so check the product photos and details.

How to choose

Start with the look you like, then think about how you like to wear it:

• Prefer something small and understated? Studs are a natural place to look.
• Like a bolder, more visible shape? Take a look at rings.
• Drawn to a centre-of-the-nose look? Look at septum rings.
• Not sure? Think about what you already wear. If you like small stud earrings, a stud may feel familiar. If you often reach for hoops, a ring might.

It’s also common to wear different styles at different times.

Before you order

• Check your size. Studs are measured by gauge, post length and head size. Rings are measured by gauge and inner diameter. Our Size Guide explains each one.
• Check the material. Product pages list it in the product details.
• Check how the style works. Flat backs, clickers and horseshoes all go in a little differently.

A note on metal sensitivity.
Some people are sensitive or allergic to certain metals, and what affects one person may not affect another. Stainless steel may contain nickel, and titanium alloys are made from titanium combined with other metals. If you know a metal doesn’t suit you, check the material before you order, and speak with your piercer or a healthcare professional if you’re unsure. You’ll find more in our Materials & Care guide.

Frequently asked questions

Closing call to action

Ready to browse? Explore our Nose Studs, Nose Rings or Septum Rings, or check your size first in the Size Guide.