Mayan Flare vs Double Flare Ear Tunnels

Mayan flare and double flare ear tunnels are both designed for stretched ears, but they sit in the lobe differently.

The right choice depends on your ear, your stretch, your preferred fit, and the kind of profile you want the jewellery to have when worn.

What are double flare ear tunnels?

Double flare ear tunnels have a flare at the front and a flare at the back, with a wearable area between them. The flares help the tunnel sit securely in the ear without an O-ring.

Because the back flare needs to pass through the lobe, double flare tunnels are best suited to healed, settled stretches with enough elasticity to insert and remove them comfortably.

Aeternum double flare tunnels are made with a low-profile flare for a secure but refined fit.

What are Mayan flare ear tunnels?

Mayan flare ear tunnels have a broader front profile and a more sculptural face. They are designed to sit with greater visual presence at the front of the lobe.

The Mayan flare style is often chosen for a more pronounced silhouette, especially where the front face of the tunnel is part of the design.

Because the profile differs from a standard double flare tunnel, fit can feel different even in the same size.

 

Key Differences

Feature	Double flare ear tunnels	Mayan flare ear tunnels
Overall look	Clean, minimal, balanced	Wider, sculptural, more pronounced
Front profile	Usually close to the lobe	Larger face at the front
Back of jewellery	Flared back edge	Often flared back edge
Security	Held in place by front and back flares	Held in place by the front and back flares
Best for	Everyday wear, minimal styling	Statement pieces, visual weight, sculptural designs
Lobe suitability	Healed, flexible lobes	Healed lobes with enough space for wider front form

Which style should I choose?

Choose double flare ear tunnels if you want a clean, minimal profile with a secure front-and-back flare.

Choose Mayan flare ear tunnels if you want a stronger front-facing shape, more visual weight, or a more sculptural profile in the ear.

If you are unsure, consider how your current jewellery fits. 

Sizing and fit

Always choose your usual healed stretched-ear size. Do not size up to force a flare to fit.

Double flare and Mayan flare tunnels can feel different because of their shape, flare profile and how they sit in the lobe. If you are between sizes, new to flared jewellery, or unsure which style is right for your ears, contact us before placing your order.

For size conversions, use our Ear Tunnel Size Guide.

Materials and construction

Aeternum ear tunnels are made in precious metals such as sterling silver, 9ct gold and 14ct gold. Each piece is cast and finished as solid jewellery, designed around proportion, weight and a lifetime of wear.

For more information on the metals used across Aeternum pieces, read our Jewellery Materials Guide.

Care

Remove ear tunnels before swimming, heavy exercise, sleeping where pressure may be applied, or any activity where the jewellery may be knocked or scratched.

Clean gently with a soft cloth and store separately when not worn. For more detailed guidance, read our Jewellery Care Guide.

Explore ear tunnels

View the full ear tunnels collection to compare double flare, Mayan flare, single flare and sculptural designs in sterling silver and gold.