If you don’t have the time or money to refresh your entire wardrobe, earrings are a relatively inexpensive way to update your look. The right earrings can enhance an outfit and add to your confidence. But with so many types of earrings to choose from, it can be difficult to select the perfect pair. Whether you’re looking for a simple pair of studs, a pair of sparklers or even some hypoallergenic options, this guide will give you all the details you need to know before selecting the best pair for your price and style.
What to know before you buy earrings
Pierced or non-pierced
If you have pierced ears, you can choose earrings for pierced ears or clip-on earrings. If you have ears that have not been pierced, clip-on earrings are the only option. Fortunately, clip-on earrings have come a long way in terms of selection and price. So even if you don’t have pierced ears, you can still get an amazing pair of earrings.
Costume or genuine
Will these earrings be a forever staple in your wardrobe or a fleeting but beloved statement piece? Depending on how long you intend to wear your jewelry will determine the quality of materials you should look for. Real gold and sterling silver will last the longest, whereas plated or faux gold materials may turn your skin green or start to tarnish quickly. Plated jewelry is much more affordable and if treated carefully can last a few months. Be sure to store your jewelry in a jewelry organizer or box.
Types of earrings
Posts or studs
Posts are your basic stud earrings, traditionally made with metal but can also be made with medical-grade plastic. These earrings are generally several millimeters to an inch in diameter and fit snugly to the ear without moving or dangling.
Clip-on earrings
Designed for those without pierced ears, clip-on earrings operate via a hinge in the back of the earring which opens and closes, allowing them to be clipped to the ear lobes. More comfortable versions include a non-slip silicone pad. Alternatively, magnetic earrings are also a great option for non-pierced ears. Vintage clip-on earrings, also called screw-back earrings, clipped to the ear via a post the wearer could screw on to control and adjust the tightness of the fit.
Huggies and hoops
Huggies and hoops are circular earrings in the shape of the letter C. Huggies hug the ear by having little to no distance between the lobe and the earring, whereas regular hoops have a wider distance. These earrings are traditionally silver or gold and come in a variety of widths and hoop sizes. Some more expensive hoops or huggies have a center channel of diamonds.
Chandelier earrings
Chandelier earrings resemble a chandelier due to their tiered dangling style. A type of chandelier earring is called Jhumka, a traditional Indian earring that resembles a bell shape. The earrings dangle and often have little balls hanging from the rim of the bell-shaped piece.
Dangle or drop earrings
Drop earrings drop directly beneath the earlobe but are not designed to move. They remain in place, secured by a post or stud back. Dangle earrings take drop earrings one step further by dropping beneath the earlobe to allow freedom of movement.
Earring cost
The quality of the materials will influence the cost. Plated jewelry is the least expensive and you should be able to find a pair of earrings for under $10. If the earrings are made of more expensive materials like sterling silver or gold, expect to spend at least $30-$50. If the earrings have precious or semi-precious stones, expect to spend at least $75 — however, the price could easily go into the hundreds or thousands for stones like diamonds.
Earring FAQ
I love the look of diamond earrings, but they are out of my budget. Any substitutes?
A. Consider moissanite or a white sapphire as a diamond replacement. Both options are extremely eye-catching quality stones and at least half the cost. Moissanite looks the closest to diamonds but is slightly more brittle, while white sapphires are incredibly durable but might not sparkle as much.
I have sensitive ears, what earrings can I wear?
A. If you have sensitive ears due to a skin condition or allergies, always be sure to purchase earrings made of hypoallergenic metal like titanium. Stay away from jewelry that contains nickel or brass. If all metals elicit a reaction, medical-grade plastic earrings are a great solution.
Which earrings should I get?
Best of the best earrings
Blue & White Topaz Drop Earrings: available at Macy’s
Our take: Perfect for a special occasion, these elegant drop earrings feature a stunning white topaz, blue topaz and a London blue topaz.
What we like: With a 3-carat blue topaz, a 2-carat London blue topaz and a 3/4-carat white topaz, these incredible sparklers can be seen from across the room. Sterling silver provides a solid backdrop to these stunners and the locking back posts guarantee that you will never lose one.
What we dislike: They feel a little heavy.
Best bang for your buck earrings
BBTO 24 Pairs Stud Earrings: available at Amazon
Our take: Great for those on a budget, this pack includes 24 posts in gold, silver and pearl.
What we like: This is an incredible deal for 24 pairs of stud earrings with different designs and accents. These alloy and gold-plated studs are perfect for any outfit.
What we dislike: They come with rubber earring backs instead of metal.
Honorable mention earrings
Ross-Simons Cultured Pearl Double-Hoop Earrings: available at Amazon
Our take: These freshwater pearl earrings feature a timeless and sophisticated look
What we like: A beautiful double hoop 14-carat gold earrings with a snap-bar closure ensuring security. A stunning 8-millimeter white freshwater pearl sits in the center with an overall earring hanging length of 3/4 of an inch. Beautiful gift box included.
What we dislike: The earrings are only offered in yellow gold.
Stefanie Hammond is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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