The last thing that you would want to happen after purchasing an expensive set of diamond earrings is to have them fell off during an evening party. It is something, which can be prevented easily if you know what to look for in an earring backs. Contrary to the famous belief, a secure earring back does not necessarily mean sacrificing comfort. Knowing the different types of earring backings will help you select the most appropriate one.
French clip – As also known as a clip post, French clip merges a common post with a clip to hold the earring securely. While they are less likely to lose the earring as compared to a regular push back, they are known to be pinching the earlobe and over an extended time, they may become uncomfortable.
Push back – Push back, also known as butterfly earring back because of its unique shape, is one of the most popular type of earring backs. It consists of a post inserting into a metal piece behind the ear to hold the earring in place.
Screw back – This type of earring backs is using a post that works like a screw. This earring back is being screwed into ridges for a tight fit. While it is one of the more secure kinds of earring backs, those that have sensitive ears may wish to avoid this, because the threaded post may not become as comfortable as the other earring backs. Moreover, taking them on and off has been known to be quite involving.
Lever back – The lever earring back is using a piece of metal, which resembles a fishhook that pushes through the ear. Then, it is secured to a lever from the earring’s back. It is known to be a great option for valuable diamond earrings, even those with larger size.
Jumbo frictionback – If you have sensitive ears, this type of earring back will make a better option, because it consists of a small metal piece that gets pushed behind the earlobe into the earring post, while that friction is securing it. The bigger size of these earring back is providing stability, added weight, and security. For even greater security, you can ask your jeweler to add a small plastic disc to your earring back.
La Poussette – As known for its combination of security and comfort, this earring back is a viable choice that will not loosen through time nor slide off when the earring is pulled. It is composed of a flat metal, which back with a small clutch on both side. Both clutches have to be squeezed in order to release it, otherwise, the earring will remain securely in place. The back post of this earring back has a groove at the end of it, which is making it harder to be pulled off unintentionally. The heavier earrings are also going to benefit from this because it prevents drooping by holding the earring close to the ear. This level of engineering comes with a price tag. Most jewelers are reserving this kind of earring back only for their most valuable earrings.
These are several choices available for diamond earring backs. As you can see, not all earring backs are equally comfortable or secure. With the investment that you can make in a pair of diamond earrings, choosing the right earring back is going to minimize the risk of loss while making sure that your earrings are a pleasure to wear.