Diamond Stud Earrings

About Diamond Stud Earrings

Studs are just one type of diamond earrings, but they are the most popular choice because of their elegant simplicity. Diamond stud earrings do not have additional accent stones, nor are they arranged in fashionable shapes or dangles with or without other gems: a stud earring is a gemstone attached to a metallic post, nothing more. Just because a stud is a single-stone earring, however, does not mean that it is boring or lacking in design.

Types of Diamond Studs

There are many different earring designs to choose from, even when considering only studs. The earrings can be varied by:

• Carat Size: Larger stones will stand out more, particularly with long hair that may obscure smaller earrings. Because there are no additional embellishments on a stud earring, larger carat sizes can be surprisingly affordable.
• Prong Arrangement: The most popular arrangement for diamond studs is a 4- or 6-prong setting, though bezel settings are also used occasionally.
• Diamond Shape: Round stones are the most popular studs, followed closely by princess cuts and heart shapes. Elongated shapes such as ovals or marquise cuts are rarely fashioned into stud earrings.
• Metal: The metal used to mount the stones will not be particularly noticeable, though both gold and white gold are popular choices and each one gives a distinctive look to the jewelry. Silver is often used as a more affordable option.

Matching Stud Earrings to an Engagement Ring

Because diamond stud earrings are so simple, it is easy to match them to an engagement ring as an anniversary or engagement gift. The easiest option is to choose the identical shape to what is used in the ring, or to choose the closest approximation (princess cut earrings can complement emerald cut engagement rings, for example). To create a jewelry set, be sure to use the same type and karat of metal, and consider choosing a diamond size that is proportional to the engagement ring. Typically, earrings are smaller than the stones used in rings, and an easy way to match sizes is to choose an earring set with a total weight (both earrings) equal to the carat weight of the ring.

When to Wear Diamond Earrings

Many brides choose to wear simple diamond studs on their wedding day because of the earrings’ simplicity and delicate sparkle. Diamond earrings can also be worn for any number of special occasions, though they are typically an evening gem and even studs are usually considered too extravagant for regular daytime wear.

Embellishing Studs

Many women like the minimalist appeal of diamond stud earrings, but they still enjoy a more elaborate type of jewelry. While engagement rings can easily be upgraded with wraps and other accessories, stud earrings are not as easy to embellish. Some boutique jewelers do offer earring add-ons that slip over the earring and catch on the post before it enters the ear, but such items are not recommended for expensive earrings because they increase the chance of the earring pulling out and being lost. A safer way to enhance diamond studs is for a woman with multiple ear piercings to wear a stud along other complementary pieces.

Purchasing Diamond Stud Earrings

Screw on backs keep expensive earrings more secure.

Even though diamond studs may not be as significant as an engagement ring or other more elaborate piece of jewelry, they should still be purchased carefully. Prices range from less than $50 to several thousand dollars depending on the stones’ size and quality, as well as how precisely the two separate earrings match. Individuals interested in purchasing diamond studs should pay close attention to the diamonds’ quality, since there are no other metallic or gemstone features to distract from any potential flaws. Very expensive earrings should feature screw-on backs for added security, and the most exclusive studs will should offer appropriate certificates and appraisals to verify their authenticity.

Caring for Studs

As with any diamond jewelry, stud earrings should be meticulously cared for. Avoid twisting the earring excessively, which could result in loosening the setting and creating a buildup of dirt and oil that dulls the stone. Always store studs away from other jewelry to prevent scratches, and have a jeweler periodically examine the earrings to be sure the settings and back clasps are secure. Because the settings on diamond earrings can be more delicate than rings, they should be cleaned professionally.

Diamond stud earrings are a classic yet elegant type of jewelry sure to add a sparkle to any ensemble. Easy to match to other jewelry pieces yet beautiful enough to make a gorgeous statement on their own, studs are a must-have for any jewelry box.