Unisex Earrings

Can Earrings Be Unisex?

Yes, and studs are where it is easiest. A stud is a stone or a ball on a post, with no curve, drop or motif that leans toward one way of dressing, so the same pair looks right on anyone. What changes the effect is width and color rather than design. A 3mm stone is discreet on every ear, and a 7mm stone is a statement on every ear. That makes a stud the safest earring to buy for someone else. It also ages well: a plain stud bought today will still look current in ten years, because there is no trend detail in it to date.

• No gendered shape. A plain stud carries no styling cue.
• Width sets the mood. Small reads quiet, large reads bold.
• Easy to give. One design suits anyone on your list.

Men's Earrings Versus Women's Earrings

In the jewelry itself there is very little difference. Earrings marketed to men tend to be smaller, darker or matte, and are often worn as a single stud; earrings marketed to women lean toward clear stones, color and length. Posts, backs and gauges are the same for everyone. The choice comes down to taste, and a pair can be worn as two earrings or as a single stud with the other kept as a spare.

• Same hardware. Posts and backs do not change by gender.
• Single or pair. Wear one stud or two.
• Taste decides. Pick by look, not by label.

Black, Ball or Clear Stone?

The earrings most people describe as masculine are dark and simple. A black CZ reads as a solid dot with a single sharp highlight, and a polished steel ball reads as pure metal, which is why both are the usual picks for a first earring on a man. A clear stone throws more sparkle and suits anyone who likes to be noticed. Square stones give a sharper, more modern edge than round ones of the same width, and they line up neatly with the straight edges of glasses frames and a short haircut.

• Black CZ. A graphic dot with a crisp shine.
• Polished ball. Plain metal, no stone to catch light.
• Clear stone. Maximum sparkle, round or square.

Choosing a Unisex Pair as a Gift

When you are guessing at someone else's taste, a 4mm or 5mm width, a clear or black stone and a steel or titanium post suit most ears and most wardrobes. Sizing help is on the stud earrings page, and the surgical steel earrings page explains what 316L means for daily wear.

• Middle width. 4mm or 5mm is the safest guess.
• Neutral stone. Clear or black suits any outfit.
• Easy metal. Steel or titanium for everyday wear.