The helix is the ridge of cartilage running around the edge of the pinna, or external part of the ear. The outer helix piercing usually refers to piercings through the helix, from above the earlobe to the top of the ear. The piercing through the helix toward the front of the ear is usually referred to as a forward helix. At NewLife, we suggest starting the piercing with a ring or a stud. (If you plan on wearing a ring after healing, let your piercer know, and we can adjust the angle of the initial piercing.) Multiple helix piercings can be done on the same ear, but because of the long healing time we do NOT suggest getting two cartilage piercings on different ears in one sitting. (You need to use one ear to sleep on, use the phone, etc.) Suggested initial jewelry is usually a 16 gauge captive bead ring or a stud, which you can get with anything from a basic, plain ball to color swarovski crystals. Outer helix piercing and forward helix piercings can also be done in pairs and connected by a long barbell, commonly called an industrial piercing.