Earrings: A pair that feels like their kind of sparkle

Look at what they reach for

The earrings they wear often are better clues than a trend. Notice whether they choose tiny studs, close-fitting hoops or longer drops, and whether the same pair goes from a workday to an evening out.

A photograph can disguise scale. Compare the stated dimensions with a familiar pair, and check weight when choosing a substantial design. An earring that catches on a scarf or feels heavy may spend more time in its box than on their ears.

Match the fastening to an existing piercing

Most studs and hoops need pierced ears; clip-on earrings serve a different wearer. Cartilage jewelry can have a different post thickness and length from ordinary lobe earrings. Do not choose a specialist piercing fitting by appearance alone.

• Check whether the listing includes a pair, a single earring or a multipair set.

• Look for the actual backing or closure supplied with each piece.

• Choose around a known piercing and comfortable fit rather than buying earrings as a hint to get pierced.

Choose the material, not just the color

For someone with material sensitivities, use the exact metal specifications they already know work for them. “Hypoallergenic” in a title is not a personal guarantee. Read the post, body and backing materials separately where they differ.

Sterling silver is a silver alloy, often described as 925. Some earrings have only sterling posts: that does not make the whole earring sterling. Gold-plated earrings carry a gold surface over another material and are not solid gold. Silver-tone and gold-tone describe appearance without proving precious-metal content.

The sterling-silver and gold-plated shopping choices are for those actual material requirements. Check the selected finish and care instructions; a search can also return unrelated materials.

When earrings are not their thing, our anniversary gift ideas offer other ways to mark the occasion.