Different Types of Earrings: Studs, Huggies, Hoops and Drops, Plus Earring Backs Explained

• Stud. A single stone or small design that sits on the lobe, held by a post and a back.

• Huggie. A small, thick hoop that sits close against the lobe.

• Hoop. A circle or part circle that loops through the ear, from small to very large.

• Drop. A stone or shape that hangs just below the lobe and moves a little.

• Dangle. A longer earring that hangs lower and swings freely.

• Chandelier. A dangle with several tiers or branches, often with many stones.

• Ear climber. Starts at the lobe and runs up the edge of the ear.

• Ear cuff. Wraps around the upper ear. Many cuffs don't need a piercing.

• Threader. A thin chain or wire that you pull through the piercing so it hangs on both sides.

• Ear jacket. A stud with a second piece that sits behind the lobe and shows below or around it.

• Size. Huggies: small, sitting tight against the lobe. Hoops: larger, hanging below the lobe.

• Thickness. Huggies: usually thicker and chunkier. Hoops: often thinner for their size.

• Look. Huggies: subtle and close to the ear. Hoops: more noticeable, and they move as you do.

• Best for. Huggies: everyday wear and stacking. Hoops: making a bigger statement.

• Ear climbers follow the curve of the ear from the lobe upward, so one piece looks like several.

• Ear cuffs hug the cartilage. Many slide on without a piercing, which makes them a way to try the look.

• Threaders hang as a fine line on both sides of the lobe, and you can adjust how long each side is.

• Ear jackets let one stud be worn two ways: on its own, or with the jacket behind the lobe for more sparkle.

• Push back (butterfly back). Slides onto the post and is held in place by friction. The most common back for studs. Easy to use, but it can loosen over time.

• Screw back. The post has a thread, and the back screws onto it. One of the most secure choices, which is why it's often used for valuable diamond studs. It takes longer to put on.

• Locking back. A push back with a grip that locks onto the post until you squeeze it to release. Quick and secure.

• Hinged snap. A hinged part of the hoop that clicks into the other side. Used on most huggies and many hoops.

• Latch back. A post that slips into a catch at the back of the earring, often used on hoops.

• Lever back. A curved wire that closes into a small hinged lever. Common on drop earrings.

• Hook (French wire). A simple curved wire through the ear, often with a small rubber stopper on the end.

For diamond studs, the usual choices are push backs, screw backs and locking backs. If you're worried about losing an earring, a screw back or locking back holds more firmly.

• For every day: studs or huggies. They're comfortable and don't catch on clothes or hair.

• For work: small studs, huggies or small hoops.

• For occasions: drops, dangles or chandeliers.

• For several piercings: a stud in the first hole and a huggie in the second is a simple mix. The same idea works for necklaces; see how to layer necklaces.

• For the metal: match the gold to the rest of your jewelry. Our guide to 14K vs 18K gold explains the difference.

Browse all our earrings, or go straight to studs, hoops and huggies or drops. Looking for a present? See our Christmas jewelry gift guide, or visit the blog for more guides.