Types of earrings for pierced ears

From delicate gemstone studs to large, dramatic hoops, earrings add style to any outfit. They also make a perfect gift for a special occasion and there are many different styles to choose from. Below is an overview of the various types of earrings that can be purchased:

The Stud Earring

As the smallest and simplest of earrings, the stud is comprised of a diamond, gemstone or ornament which appears to float on the front of the earlobe. This is attached to a post that goes through the ear and is attached to a ‘back’ to hold the earring in place. Stud earrings are a timeless, versatile choice for any earring wearer and are worn by both men and women. They are usually the earring of choice for children. There are a variety of earring backs available to use with stud earrings. Cheaper studs are usually supplied with a butterfly or bullet back, however, these can become loose and lead to the loss of the stud. The more expensive studs come with a more secure option such as a screw back. Whilst these are significantly more effective than a butterfly back some wearers do complain that they can be difficult to put on and uncomfortable to wear. LOX is a secure, locking earring back that is very simple to use and fits the post of any size stud post – even those with a screw thread. It is recommended that the wearer practices before wearing LOX as they are different from normal earring backs. A more secure type of earring back should be considered with any stud earring which was expensive or holds particular sentimental value as to lose a special earring can be a really traumatic experience.

Chandelier/Drop Earrings

The chandelier and drop earring dangles from the ear lobe with several levels cascading to a point an inch or two below the ear. These drop earrings can be made completely from metal or maybe include both precious and non-precious stones. This specific earring is elegant, feminine, and can be boldly dramatic. Some of these types of earring have a post, and so securing them can be done as detailed above for stud earrings. Others have a hook that passes through the ear lobe, however ear lobes and hooks come in different sizes and so sometimes the hooks can easily come out. There are a variety of different plastic backs which can be used on the hooks to add extra security. Some earrings are supplied with these, and they are also easily available from High Street and online retailers.

Hoops

Hooped earrings form a circle from the front to the back of the ear lobe. They are available in a range of metals, and often embellished with precious and semi-precious stones. Some are very traditional, such as the Irish ‘Claddagh’ which features a heart, hands and a crown representing love, loyalty, friendship and fidelity. There are also many different styles that are purely fashionable. They come in a variety of materials to suit all budgets, from platinum and diamonds to plastic Hooped earrings are secured by several common types of fastening, for example some have a post similar to the stud earring which can be secured as detailed above for stud earrings. Others are fastened by a piece of finer wire that fits inside the actual hoop, whilst another style have a wire which passes through the ear lobe and fits into a hook at the back of the ear. If used correctly these are self-securing.