Last Updated 21/07/2026 | Written by Maëlys Chamard, Co-Founder of MADAJ

A navel piercing, also known as a belly button piercing, is one of the most popular body piercings and is typically placed through the upper rim of the navel. While traditional navel piercings remain the most common style, floating navel piercings have become increasingly popular for anatomy that may not comfortably support a traditional lower decorative end.

Choosing the correct navel jewellery depends on your anatomy, piercing placement, and jewellery style. This guide covers everything you need to know about navel piercing anatomy, traditional vs floating navel piercings, jewellery sizing, standard gauge measurements, and how to choose the right fit for your piercing.

• Placement: Through the upper rim of the navel, depending on anatomy and piercing style
• Pricing:  $40–$80, plus the cost of jewellery
• Pain Level: 5/10
• Healing Time: 6 to 12 months
• Aftercare:  Clean twice daily with a sterile saline solution, avoid unnecessary pressure or friction, and follow your piercer's aftercare recommendations throughout healing.

The shape and structure of your navel can affect which jewellery style fits best.

A traditional navel piercing is usually placed through the upper rim of the navel. This works best when there is enough tissue and space for the jewellery to sit comfortably within the natural fold.

Some people have a flatter navel or less defined fold. In these cases, a floating navel piercing may be a more suitable option. A professional piercer can assess your anatomy and recommend the most appropriate placement and jewellery style.

Traditional and floating navel piercings are designed for different types of anatomy.

Traditional navel jewellery usually has decorative ends at both the top and bottom of the piercing. This style works best when the navel has enough depth for the lower end to sit comfortably inside the belly button.

Floating navel jewellery uses a smaller, flatter lower end instead of a larger visible gem or ball. This can make it more comfortable for navels with less depth, or for navels that fold when sitting.
Both styles commonly use the same gauge size, but the jewellery design and fit may vary depending on placement and anatomy.

Two costs to plan for:

• The piercing procedure, usually $40 to $80 at a studio
• Jewelry price which vary widely depending on material, brand, and design. Here's what's typically available on the wider market:
  - ASTM F136 titanium versions usually start around $15 and rise above $120 for more detailed pieces.
  - Precious-stone gold pieces (14k/18k) generally range $200 to $3,500+, shaped by carat and craftsmanship.
  - At MADAJ, prices start from $490 for a floating navel piece and $690 for a traditional belly piercing. Handcrafted to order in nickel-free, hypoallergenic 18k gold with your choice of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, or black diamonds. All stones are G–VS grade natural diamonds and AAA grade gems, and every piece ships with a Certificate of Authenticity.

NAVEL PIERCING SIZE GUIDE

Finding your perfect navel piercing size depends on two main factors:

• your individual anatomy

• your piercing placement
  

These suggested sizes are provided as a general guide. The right post length may vary depending on your navel shape, placement, and how your jewellery sits against the body.

The standard gauge for a navel piercing is 1.6mm, also known as 14 gauge. This is the most common thickness used for both traditional and floating navel piercings.

The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewellery post rather than its length. Choosing the correct gauge is important because jewellery that is too thin or too thick may not fit comfortably in the piercing.

Most navel jewellery collections are designed around the standard 14 gauge size, making it easier to find replacement jewellery once the piercing has healed. If you are unsure of your current gauge, it is always best to confirm with your piercer before purchasing new jewellery.

The post length of a navel piercing is typically measured across the innermost part of the bar, between the two ends of the jewellery.

When measuring existing jewellery, only measure the wearable length of the bar and do not include any decorative balls, gemstones, or charms. This provides a more accurate measurement and helps ensure a comfortable fit.

If your current jewellery feels too tight, too loose, or sits differently when standing and sitting, you may benefit from a different post length. Anatomy, piercing placement, and jewellery style can all influence which size works best.

If you are unsure which size to choose, comparing your current jewellery measurements with your piercer's recommendation can help you select the most suitable fit.

The right navel jewellery size depends on your anatomy, piercing placement, and the way the jewellery sits against the body.

Before choosing a size, consider:

• your navel shape
• your piercing placement
• your current post length
• whether you wear traditional or floating navel jewellery

If you already have navel jewellery that fits comfortably, you can use its measurements as a guide when choosing a new piece.

For a new piercing or a size change, it is best to ask a professional piercer first. They can check how the jewellery sits and recommend a size that feels secure without being too tight.

Solid 18k gold, nickel-free and hypoallergenic, is the only metal MADAJ uses for navel jewelry, whether you choose a classic or floating design. For a fresh piercing, this matters because the navel takes months to heal, and gold won't react with skin or introduce irritation during that stretch. Once healed, the same piece keeps working: it resists tarnish and holds its finish for years, so there's no need to replace it as the piercing settles into place long-term. Since the metal stays constant, price differences come down to the gemstone and the craftsmanship behind setting it. Every stone is checked before use, G–VS grading for diamonds, AAA for colored stones, and each piece ships with a Certificate of Authenticity confirming its specifications.