Earrings are one of the most popular forms of jewellery today, and have a very long history as a type of adornment. Both men and women wear earrings, jewellery used all over the ear, both in the lobe and cartilage. Earrings appear in the art work of ancient Persia, and many cultures around the world have practiced ear piercing. In the modern world, ear piercing fell out of favor after the 1920’s. Women wore clip on earrings for many years; however, beginning in the 1960’s more and more women opted to pierce their ears, and today pierced earrings are the expected standard.

Earrings are available inexpensively or can be made of precious metals or gemstones and be quite valuable. A variety of metals can be used for earrings; however, many people find they are sensitive to the nickel used in many less expensive metals. Consider choosing nickel free earrings to prevent this problem as they are available at all price ranges. Precious stones are most often set in yellow or white gold, and can range from quite small to very large. Good quality earrings, jewellery ideal for everyday wear, are an excellent investment or gift choice.

There are several different styles of earrings, jewellery for other ear piercings, and even similar jewellery used for other body piercings. Stud earrings can be made of a variety of metals and many feature stones of various sorts. A stud earring sits on the earlobe, snug against the skin. Stud earrings are attached to a post and have a snug back on backside of the earlobe. Stud earrings can range from quite simple to very whimsical. Hoop earrings are a classic choice. A hoop earring can be mounted on a post, much like a stud, but many hoop earrings are made up of a thin tube of metal, with a thinner curved post that slides into the opposite side of the hoop. Some hoop earrings are continuous, allowing them to rotate fully through the ear. This type of hoop earring is quite common in cartilage piercings. Dangle earrings hang from the earlobe, and can be rather simple or quite long and lavish. Thin wires or French hooks hold the dangling design elements of the earring.

What are some earring basics that should be in every woman’s wardrobe? First, you may want to choose whether you commonly wear yellow or white gold. If you prefer white gold or silver, consider this as the appropriate setting for your good quality earrings. Having at least a few classics available can be ideal. A pair of gemstone studs, either diamond or a stone you may prefer, is a good choice for most women. You may also want to own a pair of medium sized hoops in the metal of your choosing. These options will go with nearly anything, look practical and professional, and last you for many years. Fortunately, there are many inexpensive costume earrings on the market, making it easy to acquire a wardrobe of earring options to go with every outfit.