Skip to Content Skip to Navigation

Shop In-Store, Online or with a Virtual Consultant. We'll make it safe & convenient. Learn More >

Earrings 101: Types & Backs

Hoop earrings, diamond earrings and more at Jared

Earrings 101: Types & Backs

Because earrings are a fundamental basic for any woman's jewelry wardrobe, it helps to be familiar with some of the common names and terms associated with earring styles. Before you invest in earrings, consider the style that will best complement your face most. The most common face shapes include round, narrow, square, oval, heart and diamond. Now, the fun part. Browse these earrings by style to see if your face shape is a match. Remember, these are guidelines. Always wear what makes you feel your best!

Gold Hoops at Jared

Hoops


Hoops are a classic style that will endure the passing of time and trends. Basic in design, but with the potential for dramatic effect, a hoop earring is a sweeping circle that starts at the front of the ear and curves all the way to the back, leaving some space between the earring and back of the earlobe. Sizes can range from large to small. Generally, tighter hoops are seen as subtler and larger ones as more dramatic. Diamonds or gemstones can add sparkle and color for a fancier look.
A classic that brings just the right amount of glamour. Try if your face shape is:

  • Square


SHOP ALL HOOP EARRINGS >

Stud earring at Jared

Studs


Simple and perfectly designed for any occasion, studs are arguably the most popular style of earring. Classic stud earrings feature a single diamond or gemstone. Stud earrings may also feature tiny clusters of gemstones or may simply be gold or sterling silver in petite shapes, such as balls, hearts or knots. Studs will generally be on the small side and lay snugly on top of the earlobe. From pearls to diamonds, you can hardly ever go wrong with a stud. Try if your face shape is:

  • Narrow
  • Square


SHOP ALL STUD EARRINGS >

Dangle and drop earrings at Jared

Dangles & Drop


As the term suggests, this style of earring dangles from the earlobe for a look that can range from stylishly casual to elegant. Longer styles with diamonds or gemstones are often recommended for formal occasions, but subtler styles can be paired with jeans and boots for a more casual look. Dangle earrings continue to be a popular style on red carpet stars and everyday jewelry lovers.Elegant and sophisticated, this style complements many faces.Try if your face shape is:

  • Round
  • Heart
  • Oval
  • Diamond


SHOP ALL DROP EARRINGS >

Huggies earrings at Jared

Huggie


Huggie earrings eliminate the risk of catching or snagging. As the name implies, this earring hugs the earlobe by curving around it and attaching with a back latch. Huggie earrings are ideal for those who are active but still want some sparkle and shine.

SHOP  ALL HUGGIE EARRINGS >

Climber earrings at Jared

Climbers


One of the hottest earring trends out there, climbers are elegant with just the right amount of cool. They get their name from the way they sit on the ear, starting at the base of the earlobe and curving, or climbing, upward. A wire hugs the back of the ear to keep the earring in place and achieve the climbing illusion. Climbers can be worn to dress up a look up or add a little glamour to a more casual ensemble.