The Artistry Behind Ear Stretching / Gauging

Ear gauging has become a fast growing trend in many societies today. Commonly known as ear stretching, it is also referred to by others as tunneling for the plugs later placed at the stretched part of the ear.

While elders may frown at the practice or at seeing young adults having their ears stretched and wearing jewelry and decorative rings, this art has long existed in many ancient cultures. Centuries ago, people would deliberately pierce holes in the ears and other parts of the body, and continue to expand the holes for a certain period by putting decorations, jewelry pieces and even sticks, beads and metal objects. Today, there are still tribes in Asia, Africa and South America that appreciates ear gauging as a beautification process, or an indication of one’s status in their cultural grouping.

The ear lobe is the most common area gauged or stretched, and on the stretched part jewelry is then placed. While some people exhibit large items on their ears, the stretch is never done overnight. In fact, proper ear gauging is the gradual stretching of the lobe or any other part of the ear, and usually starts with simple piercing.

Today, more and more professionals are specializing in ear stretching. It has been considered a modern day art based on ancient practices, now conducted with different modern equipment and creativity. There are also different methods used to have the ears stretched. The professionals would know proper stretching free of complications and health risks, as well as recommend the type and styles of gauging.

Indeed, the art of ear gauging is fast becoming a person’s statement. Having their ears stretched could be a fashionable thing or it could be simply one’s appreciation for the subcultures. Like any other art form, ear gauging is best understood before one decides to have a personal masterpiece.