Piercing guides
ROOK PIERCING GUIDE
This piercing guide covers everything you need to know about rook piercings including recommended jewellery types, size guides, materials, our most frequently asked rook piercing questions, and styling inspiration.
Quick Rook Piercing Facts
Pain level: High
Healing time: 9–12 months
Jewellery type: Curved barbell or cartilage hoop
Standard gauge: 1.2mm (16G)
Most popular Size Guide: Hoop 6mm
A rook piercing is a cartilage piercing located in the inner ridge of the ear, positioned above the daith and below the upper helix. Its tucked-in placement makes it a more anatomy-dependent piercing and not suitable for every ear shape.
People often choose a rook piercing because it adds depth and dimension to an ear stack without sitting on the outer edge of the ear. It creates visual interest in the centre of the ear and works well as a complementary piercing alongside helix, conch and lobe piercings.
Rook piercings are typically styled with curved jewellery that follows the natural shape of the cartilage.
FAQ'S
most asked rook piercing questions
Rook piercings are generally considered moderate to high due to the thickness of the cartilage being pierced. The piercing itself is quick, but pressure is often felt.
Average healing time: 9–12 months Initial swelling and tenderness are common. Jewellery downsizing may be required once swelling reduces. Due to its tucked-in position, the rook can heal more smoothly than outer cartilage piercings when correct jewellery is worn.
Only change your jewellery once your piercing is fully healed. Changing too early can cause irritation, swelling and delayed healing. Consult your piercer if you are unsure.
Helix piercings can be tricky to change, especially with flat-back studs. Using a piercing insertion tool or stud grabber can help guide the post through the piercing and securely attach the front without dropping it. These tools make jewellery changes quicker, easier and more hygienic.
Gauge: 1.2mm (standard cartilage gauge)
Type: Either a curved barbell or a small clicker hoop. When using a clicker hoop we usually recommend 6mm.
Initial piercings are often fitted with a slightly longer bar to allow for swelling, then downsized.
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