Diamond Earrings for Women - Types, Shapes & Everything You Need to Know

Diamond earrings are the perfect accessory - they complete any look and give a glimpse into your style. They can go from day to night and last a lifetime. Plus, there are so many different styles of earrings, from minimal to statement sets. Diamonds are the ultimate symbol of elegance and luxury, and a timeless pair of earrings is the perfect gift for yourself or someone else. We'll cover everything you need to know about diamond earrings, so let's go.

Types of Diamond Earrings

Pause and think about how many different styles of earrings there are - studs, hoops, and drops in all types of shapes and sizes. To help you shop for diamond earrings better, let's cover what all these entail.

Stud Earrings

Stud earrings are a classical and versatile choice. They're typically a single stone or a cluster of stones on a post that sits on the earlobe. Classic solitaire studs are a versatile earring option, and you'll find them in various diamond cuts, such as round, princess, emerald, oval, or cushion. Each shape gives the studs a different look, but all of them are spectacular.

Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings are a classic, versatile style that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. You'll see smaller diamond huggies that closely “hug” the earlobes. Their popularity has exploded in recent years because they're suitable for a day at the office or a night out. Another unique style of huggies is the inside-out hoop. This style of earrings has diamonds on the inside and the outside of the hoop and really makes a statement. They'd be best suited for a special occasion where you need some extra glam. Dangle hoops typically have stones on only the outside of the earrings. Depending on the size, they can be either small or larger. Smaller hoops work well for most occasions - they add extra sparkle but can go from day to night. Larger hoops are more dramatic and would work well for formal events.

Drop Earrings

You'll see diamond drop earrings in all shapes and sizes like hoops. They're sophisticated and flattering and add a touch of glamor to any look. You'll see dramatic drop earrings like these emerald cut drop halo danglers, and more whimsical versions like these heart shaped dangler earrings. Not all drop earrings are long. You'll see them in varying lengths, like these halo cushion and pear drop earrings. Their glittering diamonds will catch the eye and make them the perfect accessory for your special occasion.

Diamond Shapes

You'll see a variety of diamond cuts used in diamond earrings.

Round-cut diamonds remain the most popular and classic choice because they're brilliant and versatile. Round diamonds look gorgeous with their 58 sparkling facets, regardless of your earring design.

Princess cuts are square stones with sharper corners and scintillating sparkle. They're also a popular choice because they're contemporary and modern-looking. Princess cut diamonds can appear larger than other cuts with the same carat weight because they have a large surface area.

Emerald cut diamonds are elegant and timeless with their elongated rectangular shape, cut corners, and step-cut facets. Emerald diamonds have a large table where you can peer inside the stone. This can showcase the clarity and color, so you'll want to consider quality grades if you're drawn to this beautiful diamond cut.

You'll see some additional diamond shapes, such as oval, pear, and marquise. Ovals have the brilliance of round diamonds but with a more elongated shape. Pears are an elegant teardrop shape that is unique and eye-catching. Marquise diamonds are almond-shaped with pointed corners and a plump center. These diamond shapes look stunning, so you'll need to see what type you'd prefer in your diamond earrings.

Diamond Quality and Grading

The diamond quality of the stones used in earrings impacts the overall price. Higher quality 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight) will cost more. Larger carat weights are also more expensive. You want the diamonds to look consistent between the two earrings, so it's good to inquire about the quality. You wouldn't want your studs or drop earrings to look mismatched.

Setting Styles

You'll see varying setting styles in diamond earrings. Prongs are a popular option because they are versatile and widely used. You'll see a varying number of prongs holding the diamond in place, and four and six are popular. In this pair of yellow drop earrings, you'll see the diamond held in place with four prongs.

Bezel settings are also used in diamond earrings - either full or partial bezels. A full bezel has metal that goes all the way around the stone. A partial bezel outlines part of the stone. In this set of pear chandelier earrings, you'll see how the round diamonds are encircled in metal.

Metal Choices

Metal can drastically change the overall look and design of the earrings. You'll see earrings in varying types of metals, typically white, yellow, rose gold, or platinum. Some women and men prefer one kind of metal over others, while others prefer mixing and matching different types of metals. The metal choice is a personal style preference.

Choosing the Right Pair

With all the varying options, you might wonder how to select the right pair. If you're buying some diamond earrings as a gift, consider their personal style and preferences. Observe what types of metals and jewelry they wear more. Consider the lifestyle as well. If they attend plays, concerts, and special events, then a statement pair of earrings might be fitting. If your loved one typically wears smaller pieces, then consider classic diamond huggies.

It's also important to consider the face shape to choose the most flattering pair. Consider a chandelier or longer sparkle dangle drop earrings if your face is rounder. The long, lean silhouette of these earrings would elongate the face shape.

Conclusion

You have so many diamond earring options! You'll see minimal styles, such as studs and huggies, to more extravagant designs, such as inside-out hoops and drop earrings. You'll also see varying diamond cuts and types (natural and lab grown diamonds). Regardless of your choice, they're versatile, elegant, and timeless pieces to add to your jewelry collection. And if you're looking to give a pair to a loved one, you'll give an unforgettable gift. Take their style and metal preferences into account so you can choose a diamond pair they'll adore.