Stud Earrings

What Is a Stud Earring?

A stud is an earring that seems to float on the lobe. The decoration sits on the front, a straight post passes through the piercing, and a back slides onto the post behind the ear to hold it in place. Nothing hangs below the lobe, so a stud never swings, never catches on a collar and never tangles in long hair. That is why it is the earring people wear for the most hours of the day, from the office to the gym.

• Front, post, back. Three parts and nothing that dangles.
• Sits flat. No movement means nothing to snag.
• All day wear. The easiest earring to forget you have on.

Choosing a Stud Size in Millimeters

Studs are sold by the width of the stone or ball. As a rough guide, 3mm is about 1/8 inch, 5mm about 3/16 inch and 7mm just over 1/4 inch. The smallest widths look like a point of light and suit upper lobe holes; the middle widths are what most people choose for a first hole; the largest are seen at conversation distance and make a stud the main event. A single millimeter adds more face than it sounds like, so when two widths both appeal, start with the narrower for everyday wear.

• Small widths. Pinpoint sparkle for second and third holes.
• Middle widths. The everyday choice for a first hole.
• Large widths. A statement seen from across the table.

Metal Clutch or Rubber Back?

The back is the part of a stud you only notice when it fails. A metal clutch is a small butterfly that grips the post and clicks into a groove near its end, which makes it the secure choice for busy days. A clear rubber back is softer and lies flatter behind the lobe, so it is the comfortable choice when you rest your head on a pillow or a phone. When a pair comes with both, switch them by the occasion.

• Metal clutch. Locks into a groove for a firm hold.
• Rubber back. Soft and flat for comfort.
• Keep a spare. Backs are the piece that goes missing.

Building a Stack of Studs

Studs stack better than any other earring because nothing moves. Put the widest stone in the first hole and step down in size with each hole above it, then drop a polished ball or a dark stone into the row to give the eye a pause. For the brightest row, pick from the clear stud earrings, and for pairs that suit anyone you are shopping for, see the unisex earrings.

• Widest stone lowest. Sizes step down as the holes climb.
• Add a pause. A ball or dark stone breaks up the sparkle.
• One metal tone. Matching posts keep the stack calm.