Why You Might Need a Replacement Flat Back Post
Losing an earring back is a minor annoyance that can become a major hassle if you don't have a spare. Flat back earring posts are a popular choice for cartilage piercings and healed lobes because they sit flush against the skin and don't dig in during sleep. The good news is you don't have to replace the whole earring — you can buy a replacement flat back post that matches your existing jewelry's attachment style.
Two Attachment Types: Threaded vs Push Pin
The most important decision is whether your earring uses an internally threaded or a push pin (also called threadless) system. They are not interchangeable, so check the post on your current earring before ordering.
An internally threaded flat back post screws onto a threaded stud. This type is common with solid 14k gold earrings and provides a very secure fit. The 14k Gold Internally Threaded Replacement Flat Back Post is designed specifically for solid 14k gold threaded flat back earrings.
A push pin flat back post uses a pin that slides into a hollow post and bends slightly to hold it in place. These are often made of titanium (sometimes with a gold PVD coating). The Push Pin Replacement Flat Back Post is designed for push pin style flat back earrings and will not work with threaded posts or traditional butterfly backs.
Key Differences Between the Two Replacement Posts
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14k Gold Internally Threaded Replacement Flat Back Post: These backings are designed for our solid 14k gold threaded flat back earrings and will not work with our titanium flat back earrings or traditional butterfly back earring posts. Confirms that the internally threaded post is only compatible with 14k gold threaded studs, not with push pin or titanium styles.
14k Gold Internally Threaded Replacement Flat Back Post
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Push Pin Replacement Flat Back Post: These backings are designed for our push pin style flat back earrings and will not work with threaded style earrings or traditional butterfly back earring posts. Makes it clear that the push pin post is for push pin earrings only. Mixing attachment types will not work.
Push Pin Replacement Flat Back Post
Gauge and Length: Getting the Right Fit
Both replacement posts come in multiple gauge and length options. Gauge refers to the thickness of the post; a higher number means a thinner post. For example, 20g is common for lobe and nose piercings, 18g for healed cartilage, and 16g for most cartilage piercings. Choosing the wrong gauge can make insertion difficult or uncomfortable.
Length determines how much post protrudes past your piercing. A 6mm or 8mm length is typical for cartilage; 4mm is very short and may only suit thin lobes. If you're unsure, measure the post of an earring that fits well, or consult your piercer.
Material and Finish Considerations
The 14k Gold Internally Threaded Replacement Flat Back Post is made of solid 14k gold, so it will match other solid gold earrings and won't tarnish. It features a 3mm flat back disc.
The Push Pin Replacement Flat Back Post is made of implant grade titanium. The gold-colored version has an 18K gold PVD coating, while the silver version is uncoated. Titanium is lightweight and often preferred for sensitive piercings, though the supplied information does not confirm hypoallergenic status. The disc size is also 3mm.
Buying as Singles or Pairs
Both replacement posts are sold as single earrings. If you need a pair (for example, matching earrings in both ears), you'll need to order two. This is common for replacement parts, so check your quantity before checking out.