Earrings buying guide
Nowadays a huge variety of styles of earrings are in fashion and worn by both sexes.
Wearing earrings is one of the oldest and the most common forms of body adornment and has stayed in fashion right through the centuries and offer elegance, style and charm to the wearer.
During modern times earrings can completely change your image, your clothing and enhance your overall look. There are many styles to choose from, and much will depend on the shape of your face, colouring, hairstyle and bone structure when choosing, together with lifestyle. You may not wear your work earrings when going out to dinner or other glamorous events.
There are many different earring styles, and a few are listed below, so you'll be spoilt for choice:
- Stud Earrings.
- Drop Earrings.
- Cluster Earrings
- Dangle Earrings
- Hoop Earrings
- Huggie Earrings
- Chandelier Earrings
- Threader Earrings.
Studs
These are by far the most popular and are worn close to the ear and enhance whatever you're wearing, and are perfect for special occasions. The overall appearance is of a gemstone or stud floating on the ear, though it is held securely with a push-back or screw-back post. They flatter most face shapes, are always in fashion, and widely purchased by both men and women.
Diamond stud earrings
As with most jewellery, cost is a factor, but if you're choosing expensive stylish diamond studs, then it's worthwhile considering the 4 c's, which are cut, colour, clarity, and carat. There are many diamond shapes ranging from oval, cushion cut, round and the unique Asscher cut, which was widely popular in the 1920's and still enjoyed today for those seeking a more vintage style. Diamond studs look elegant with any outfit and can be worn for any occasion and never go out of style.
Trends come and go, but diamond stud earrings are timeless. These really are the 'white t-shirt' of the jewellery wardrobe and are the unsung stars of fashion with their versatility and ease of wear which make them a 'must have' in any jewellery box.
Gemstone studs
Always highly popular choices, a gemstone earring style can often include the wearer's birthstone or be a romantic gift from a partner. With so many gorgeous gemstones to choose from and it's interesting when seeking out the meaning of certain gemstones.
- Topaz - improves focus and clarity
- Blue Sapphire - symbolises romance, loyalty and strength. It is also the birthstone for the month of September.
- Green Sapphire - symbolises tranquility, calmness and integrity.
- Tourmaline – signifies understanding and friendship
- Opal – offers love and passion, and wearing an opal signifies loyalty.
- Aquamarine gemstone is based heavily on its namesake – the sea. Everything that the endless blue ocean represents is included in the meaning of this stone. It represents exhilaration as well as relaxing calm.
- Ruby - the birthstone for July, the gem for 15th and 40th anniversaries and is often given as a romantic gift to show the love, passion & strength of a relationship.
Pearl studs
These are timeless and can be found in varying colours and styles and compliment any outfit. Akoya and freshwater pearls are the most common varieties and are the simplest form of earrings and are a must for any jewellery collection.
Hoops
These will flatter most face shapes and can be worn in a variety of sizes with all metals, added gemstones, and be of varying thickness and worn as large or small hoops.
Drops
These are highly popular and very feminine as they dangle gently from the ear. They can range in length from an inch long to nearly shoulder length. Secured with a lever backing or French wire, they can incorporate a gemstone for added attraction. This style can be worn formally or casually.
Types of earring backs
The earring backing is what keeps the actual piece of jewellery secure and in place, and there are several varieties.
Screw-back
This style has a grooved end on the earring post that screws securely to hold the piece in place. Screw backs are commonly seen in premium gold and platinum earring to ensure earrings don't slip off from the ear.
Push back
This is the most common type of backing and often referred to as 'butterflies' due to the distinctive style of the metal. It's basically a straight post inserted into a metal piece behind the ear, and many are interchangeable, making them easy to replace should you lose one.
French back
This is a loop of metal that hinges around the back of the ear to hold the earring in place then latches over the post where it then emerges behind the ear. Although not quite as durable as other styles, it is usually secure and comfortable to wear.
Latch back
This is a popular style and seen on hoop earrings as a curved piece of metal that slides through the ear and latches into a metal pivot on the rear of the earring.
Lever back
This style is very similar to the latch back and is a fishhook of metal that passes through the ear and is then secured to a hinged lever that holds out of the back of the earring. This type is ideal for larger and more valuable earrings.
