A Look At The History Of Earrings
The history of earrings is a long story! It is believed that earrings date back to the year 3000 BC and that they originated in Asia. When they first debuted, they came in two different forms: the first was a basic hoop earring, and the second was a more complex pendant earring.
The earliest pair of earrings ever uncovered by archaeologists was found in Iraq’s royal burials. They were buried in about 2500 BC and dated back to that period. Crete has yielded the discovery of hoop earrings made of gold, silver, and bronze dating back to 2000 BC. Back then, it was common practice to entomb valuables such as jewellery beside the deceased.
An earring style known as an earplug became popular in the 16th century BC in the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. These earrings were designed to fit snugly into an earlobe hole that had been stretched wide open. On the sculpture of Tutankhamen, you may observe a piercing like this.
In later times, poverty caused a decline in work done with precious metals; yet, some goldsmiths conserved patterns that eventually became popular in Greece during the 7th century AD. The most common style of earring used at that time was called a pendant, and it typically depicted an animal or an image of a god, such as Eros or Nike.
During the second century, in the Roman Empire, earrings became a fashionable method for wealthy ladies to show off their money. Additionally, the usage of valuable gemstones in jewellery grew increasingly popular during this period.
Earrings In The European Middle Ages To The 19th Century
Earrings saw a decline in popularity and were considered less practical throughout the Middle Ages due to the rise in demand for complex hairstyles and headdresses. In point of fact, there was a period of time when it was seen to be indecent for respectable married women to go out in public without their heads being covered.
In Italy during the 16th century, hairstyles shifted, and hair was swept away from the face, exposing the ears. On the other hand, in England, Spain, and France during the same period, things remained the same because people wore high collars, making earrings unfashionable. This trend continued for another 100 years.
By the 17th century, earrings had established themselves as an essential component of an elegantly put-together look for women across Europe. The very enormous, heavy earrings with pendants called girandoles were one of the most fashionable styles of that era. By the 19th century, in the United Kingdom, Queen Victoria became a massive fan of these earrings, and they were one of her personal favourites. These earrings needed a significant quantity of precious metals and jewels, and as a result, they were rather heavy. Because of this, most women who wore them had extended earlobes due to wearing them.
Earrings were popular throughout history with affluent people. Still, they were also popular with lower-class people, who developed their own less intricate styles and created from less expensive materials. These styles were adopted by lower-class individuals.
1.30ct Blue Sapphire & Diamond Drop Earrings in 18k White Gold
£1,106.00
£1,977.00
These stunning drop earrings showcase a playful mix of vibrant colours to a captivating effect. They will make a colourful addition to any sophisticated lady's jewellery collection. Featured in these classic sapphire and diamond drop earrings are round-shaped blue sapphires… read more
The 20th Century And New Earring Styles
The earring industry saw a sea change in the 20th century. Different fittings came into existence, such as screw-on and clip-on, in addition to those for ears that had been pierced. Additionally, it became standard practice for women to wear earrings during the day and not just on special occasions. Earring fashion underwent a revolution in the 1960s when designs grew unrestricted in every way, and men started wearing earrings more often. However, most men only wore one earring at a time. This decade was a watershed moment for the accessory. Women started collecting earrings, and there were so many different styles out there that the possibilities were virtually unlimited.
Because many people these days have more than one set of piercings in which to exhibit their jewellery, the selection available is even more extensive, and the popularity of earrings continues to rise. Earrings are frequently crafted from contemporary materials such as titanium, and many kinds of plastics are used, the latter in costume and fashion jewellery due to these materials' low weight, versatile design potential, and, in the case of titanium, their hypoallergenic properties.
Earrings come in a wide variety of styles and price points, from inexpensive and cheerful daily styles to more expensive options made of gold, silver, or platinum and inlaid with diamonds and other precious gemstones. Today, consumers have access to a seemingly endless selection of earring options.
Diamond Trilogy Drop Earrings 1.10ct G/SI Quality in 18k Yellow Gold
£1,572.00
£2,907.00
Our elegant diamond trilogy drop earrings are an eye-catching delight. They are handcrafted in glossy 18k yellow gold. Each of the earrings features three dazzling round-cut of G/SI quality diamonds mounted in a classic claw setting. The diamonds used weigh… read more
Modern Earrings At All Diamond
Now that you have seen a little of the long history of earrings we come right up to date!
Of course, given our name, all of our earring designs incorporate diamonds set into precious metals. Along with diamonds, we have styles that blend diamonds with aquamarine, emeralds, rubies, sapphires and more.
Whether you are looking for a simple solitaire stud or something much showier, we can help you find what you are looking for!
Every piece of jewellery we sell is designed and handcrafted in the United Kingdom. Every piece of precious metal carries the appropriate UK hallmark indicating its quality and purity.
You can buy online from our store with confidence due to our generous return and exchange policies, and everything carries a lifetime workmanship guarantee.
Diamond Stud Earrings 1.00ct G/SI Quality in 18k Yellow Gold
£2,492.00
£4,677.00
These diamond stud earrings are set with G/SI quality diamonds which are full of shine and sparkle and are designed to be worn for every occasion. It is also great for second, third, or fourth piercings to match with other… read more
Our Collections Of Diamond Earrings
Please take a few minutes and browse our earing collections at your leisure – we are confident that you will find ideas to inspire you. Hopefully, your next pair of earrings will come in one of our luxurious jewellery presentation boxes.
You can see our collections of diamond earrings right here.
