Stud Earrings

A diamond stud is the classic, a single point of light that goes with everything. A pearl is softer and a little dressier. Plain gold is the quietest of the three, the kind you forget you have on. All are set in solid gold.

Diamond studs are measured by carat weight, and the right size is mostly about how much you want them noticed. Around half a carat each is where most people land for everyday wear, present without being showy. Smaller sits quieter and disappears into daily wear, while larger carries more light and reads as more of an occasion piece. There is no correct size, only the one that suits how you want them to look.

Both are offered, and both are ethically sourced. Cultured diamonds are grown rather than mined, identical to look at, and more accessible, so the same budget buys more size. Natural diamonds carry their rarity and history. Neither is better, and it comes down to what matters more to you.

The back is what holds a stud in place, and there are two kinds. A push back slides on and off easily, which suits everyday wear. A screw back threads on and holds more securely, which many people prefer for diamond studs they rarely take out. Both are secure when fitted well, so it is really a question of how often you plan to take them off.

On their own, studs are as simple as jewellery gets. In a stack, a stud sits low in the lobe with a huggie or small hoop above it. A matched pair is the classic, while a deliberately mismatched pair, one stud with something different beside it, feels more modern.

Wipe them with a soft cloth to keep them bright, and take them out before swimming or heavy cleaning. Store them so the posts stay straight and the pairs stay together.