While jewelry trends come and go, few items hold as much appeal as diamond earrings. Beyond a timeless investment that can be cherished for a lifetime and passed down through generations, diamond earrings can be a statement piece, and perhaps a great conversation starter!
Whether you're buying them for a special occasion, as a gift, or simply to treat yourself, choosing the perfect pair involves understanding various factors—from diamond quality and settings to styles and occasions.
Let experts from our high-end jewelry store, Sig Ward Jewelry, help you in your journey toward finding the diamond earrings that will become your forever favorites.
Start with Understanding Diamond Quality: The Four Cs
Cut
The quality of a diamond's facets and shape determines its cut, which in turn affects the diamond's brilliance and sparkle. A brilliantly cut diamond would reflect light in an excellent way, giving off that distinctive shine.
Cuts are graded from Poor to Excellent. For earrings, the cut is especially important as it determines how much the diamonds will shine when they catch the light.
Color
There is a colour scale for diamonds that goes from Z (brown or light yellow) to D (colourless). The most precious and sought-after diamonds are colourless ones because they allow more light to enter the stone, enhancing its brilliance. Preferred for their pure, bright appearance, diamonds in the D to F group make excellent earrings.
Clarity
Clarity measures the presence of external or internal imperfections, known as blemishes or inclusions. The clarity scale varies from Included to Flawless with the former meaning blemishes and/or inclusions visible to the naked eye to the latter indicating no blemishes or inclusions visible under 10x magnification. For earrings, clarity is important, but since they are not viewed up close as often as rings, diamonds with Slightly Included (SI) or Very Slightly Included (VS) clarity can be excellent choices.
Carat Weight
Carat weight measures the size of the diamond. While bigger diamonds are scarcer and generally more expensive, the carat weight should be balanced with the color, clarity, and cut to ensure you get the best value. For earrings, the carat weight you choose will depend on personal preference and the statement you wish to make.
Choosing the Right Style
Diamond earrings come in a variety of styles, each offering a unique way to showcase the beauty of diamonds. Here are some popular styles to consider:
1. Stud Earrings
Diamond stud earrings are timeless and versatile, making them a staple in any jewelry collection. They feature a single diamond set in a simple, often minimalistic setting. Studs are perfect for everyday wear and can transition seamlessly from day to night.
2. Hoop Earrings
Diamond hoop earrings add a touch of glamour and sophistication. They come in various sizes and designs, from small, delicate hoops to large, statement-making ones. The diamonds can be set on the front of the hoop or all around, offering different levels of sparkle and style.
3. Drop Earrings
Drop earrings feature diamonds that dangle below the earlobe, creating movement and catching the light with every turn of the head. They can be simple with a single diamond drop or elaborate with multiple diamonds and intricate designs.
4. Chandelier Earrings
Chandelier earrings are dramatic and luxurious, often featuring multiple tiers of diamonds that create a cascading effect. They are perfect for special occasions and events where you want to make a bold statement.
5. Huggie Earrings
Huggie earrings are small, hoop-style earrings that 'hug' the earlobe closely. They often feature diamonds set along the outer edge, offering a subtle yet elegant look. Huggies are great for adding a touch of sparkle to everyday outfits.
Matching Earrings to Face Shape
Choosing the right pair of diamond earrings also involves considering your face shape to ensure they complement your features. While the exquisite diamond earrings collection at Sig Ward Jewelry is suitable for all face tones and types, here are some guidelines to help you find the most flattering style.
Round Face
For round faces, opt for earrings that add length and create a slimming effect. Drop earrings and chandelier earrings are excellent choices as they draw attention downwards, elongating the face.
Oval Face
Oval faces are versatile and can pull off almost any earring style. Studs, hoops, and drop earrings all work well. However, to enhance the natural symmetry of an oval face, consider earrings that are wider at the bottom, such as teardrop shapes.
Square Face
To soften the angles of a square face, choose earrings with rounded edges and flowing designs. Hoop earrings and long, curvy drop earrings are ideal for adding a touch of softness.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart-shaped faces are characterized by a wider forehead and a narrower chin. Earrings that add width at the chin can help balance the face. Look for designs that are wider at the bottom, such as teardrops and chandelier earrings.
Long Face
For long faces, choose earrings that add width and do not elongate the face further. Studs, cluster earrings, and wider hoops are great options.
Choosing the Right Setting
The setting of diamond earrings affects both their appearance and security. Here are some popular setting styles:
Prong Setting: Prongs are tiny metal claws that hold the diamond in place. This setting allows maximum light to enter the diamond, enhancing its brilliance. It’s a popular choice for stud earrings.
Bezel Setting: A bezel setting surrounds the diamond with a thin metal rim. It gives the diamond outstanding protection and has a sleek, contemporary appearance. For those who are active and desire secure earrings, this is the perfect setting.
Halo Setting: A halo setting features a central diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds, creating a halo effect. This setting makes the central diamond appear larger and adds extra sparkle. It’s a popular choice for both studs and drop earrings.
Pavé Setting: Pavé settings involve small diamonds set closely together, covering the surface of the earrings. This setting creates a continuous sparkle and is often used in hoop and chandelier earrings.
Channel Setting: In a channel setting, diamonds are set in a channel between two strips of metal. This setting is secure and offers a smooth, streamlined look. It’s commonly used in hoop earrings.
Considering the Occasion
While some diamond earrings are versatile enough for any occasion, others are more suited to specific events. Here are some tips for choosing the right pair for different settings:
Everyday Wear
For everyday wear, simplicity and comfort are key. Diamond huggie earrings or studs are perfect for adding a touch of elegance without being too flashy. They are easy to wear and can complement casual and professional outfits alike.
Work or Professional Settings
In professional settings, opt for understated and classic designs. Studs, small hoops, or simple drop earrings are ideal choices. Avoid overly large or extravagant designs that might be distracting.
Formal Events
For formal events, you can afford to be more glamorous. Chandelier earrings, large hoops, or intricate drop earrings can add a touch of sophistication and drama to your evening attire. Consider coordinating with other diamond jewelry pieces for a cohesive look.
Special Occasions
Special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or milestone celebrations call for statement-making earrings. Choose designs that reflect the significance of the event, such as a chandelier or large drop earrings with intricate details and multiple diamonds.
Enhance the Diamond’s Beauty with the Right Metal Choice
The metal used in the setting of diamond earrings plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall appearance of the earrings. Common metal choices include white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. Each metal offers a unique look and complements diamonds differently.
White Gold
White gold is a popular choice for diamond earrings because it enhances the brilliance of the diamonds and provides a modern, sleek look. It pairs well with colorless diamonds, making them appear even more radiant.
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold offers a classic and timeless appeal. It adds warmth to the diamonds and can create a beautiful contrast, especially with higher color grade diamonds.
Rose Gold
Rose gold has a romantic and vintage charm. It complements a variety of skin tones and adds a touch of femininity to diamond earrings. Rose gold settings work well with both colorless and slightly colored diamonds.
Platinum
Platinum is known for its hypoallergenic and durable properties. It has a natural white luster that does not fade over time, making it an excellent choice for diamond settings. Platinum enhances the brilliance of diamonds and is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and long-lasting option.
Eager To Shop Your Perfect Pair Of Diamond Earrings?
Explore the exquisite collection at Sig Ward Jewelry. Find stunning earrings that flatter your face shape and complement your personality.
From timeless studs to statement chandeliers, Sig Ward Jewelry offers pieces crafted with the highest quality, including dainty and delicate bracelets for sale and a yellow gold diamond horseshoe necklace, to become treasured parts of your collection. Whether you're searching for high end designer jewelry or the best fine jewelry store online, don’t wait! Browse our stunning selection or visit leading stockists near you now – some of these stunning pieces are one-of-a-kind!
Explore the exquisite collection at Sig Ward Jewelry. Find stunning earrings that flatter your face shape and complement your personality.