Wire gauges are standardized measurements used to determine the diameter of electrical wires. The gauge number is inversely related to the wire's diameter; as the gauge number increases, the wire's diameter decreases. Common wire gauge systems include the American Wire Gauge AWG and the Standard Wire Gauge SWG. Different wire gauges are used for various applications, such as electrical wiring, crafting, and jewelry making. Thicker wires (lower gauge numbers) can carry more current, while thinner wires (higher gauge numbers) are more flexible and easier to work with. Choosing the correct wire gauge is essential for safety and performance in electrical systems.