Styles and Trends: Your Guide to Diamond Earrings

There are so many types of earrings to choose from that it can take time to know where to start. Do you want something flashy and trendy or a more timeless style? 

This guide will help you navigate the world of diamond earrings and find the perfect pair for you. We’ll start by looking at all diamonds – their quality, shapes, and how they’re used in jewelry. Then we’ll take a look at some popular earring styles and trends. 

By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be an expert on diamond earrings! So, keep reading for all the information you need to know!

What are Diamonds?

Before we dive into types of earrings, let’s first answer the question: what exactly is a diamond? A diamond is a carbon crystal formed deep within the earth. They’re the hardest natural material on earth, which is why they’ve been used in jewelry and other decorative items for centuries.

When it comes to earrings, diamonds are usually cut into a few different shapes. The most popular forms are round, marquise, pear, oval, and princess. Each shape has a unique look, so you’ll choose the one you think is the most flattering for your face shape.

In terms of quality, diamonds are judged on the “4 Cs.” The four Cs stand for Carat weight, Cut, Clarity, and Color. Here’s a little about what the “4 Cs” mean:

Carat Weight

When it comes to diamonds, carat weight is king. After all, a two-carat diamond will always cost more than two one-carat diamonds of the same quality. But how did carat weight become the standard for measuring the diamond’s size?

The word carat is derived from the carob bean. Carob beans were once a standard measuring unit of weight for precious stones. In ancient times, jewelers weighed diamonds against these beans to determine their value.

Today, one carat is equal to 200 milligrams, or 0.2 grams. This might not seem like much, but a one-carat diamond is large. Most diamonds used in engagement rings are between one and two carats.

Cut

The cut of a diamond is what gives it its sparkle. A well-cut diamond will reflect light internally and appear bright, while a poorly-cut diamond will appear dull.

There are a few types of diamond cuts for earrings:

Round-Cut: The most popular type of diamond cut, the round cut is also the most brilliant. Round-cut diamonds have 58 facets (the small polished planes on the surface of a diamond), which helps to reflect light and create sparkle.

Marquise-Cut: A marquise-cut diamond is elongated and has pointed ends. This type of cut is often used in solitaire earrings, making the diamond appear larger than it is. Marquise cut diamonds have 58 facets.

Pear-Cut: A pear-cut diamond is similar to a marquise cut but with a rounded end. This type of cut is also often used in solitaire earrings. Pear-cut diamonds have 58 facets.

Oval-Cut: An oval-cut diamond is an elongated version of the round cut. This cut is incredibly flattering for those with narrow faces, as it can make a face appear more expansive. Oval cut diamonds have 58 facets.

Princess Cut: A princess cut diamond is a square or rectangular diamond with pointed corners. Princess-cut diamonds are trendy in engagement rings, as they have many sparkles. Princess-cut diamonds have 58 facets.

Brilliant Cut: A brilliant cut is any diamond cut with 58 facets. The extra facets help to reflect light and create a sparkle.

Step-Cut: A step-cut is any diamond cut with fewer than 58 facets. The most common types of step cuts are the emerald and Asscher cuts. Step-cut diamonds often have a more vintage look.

Mixed Cut: A mixed cut is any diamond that combines aspects of both brilliant and step cuts. The most common type of mixed cut is the brilliant round cut.

When it comes to earrings, the cut is less important than the carat weight or clarity. However, you still want to ensure that the diamonds are well-cut, so they appear bright and sparkly.

Clarity

The clarity of a diamond is a measure of how many blemishes or inclusions (internal imperfections) it has: the more blemishes or inclusions, the lower the clarity. However, these imperfections are often not visible to the naked eye, so don’t worry if a diamond isn’t clear. 

The clarity in diamond earrings is less critical than carat weight or cut. However, you still want to make sure the diamonds are free of blemishes.

Color

The color of a diamond is judged on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellow-hued diamond). Most diamonds used in jewelry are between D and J on the color scale, which means they have a very slight yellow-hued tone. 

Therefore, color in diamond earrings is not as important as carat weight or cut. However, choose a diamond with a higher color grade if you’re looking for a solitaire earring.

Now that we’ve answered the question, “what are diamonds?” let’s move on to types of earrings.

Types of Earring Styles

There are four main types of earrings: studs, dangles, hoops, and chandeliers. Stud earrings are the most popular type of earring and come in various styles. Dangle earrings are less common, but they’re perfect for special occasions.

When it comes to choosing diamond earrings, the first thing you need to decide is what type of metal you want. Of course, gold and silver are the most popular choices. However, you can also find stud earrings made from platinum, titanium, and even stainless steel.

Stud Earrings

Stud earrings are the most popular type of earring and come in many styles. However, the diamond stud is the most common earring, a small diamond set with a metal backing. 

Be sure to consider the size of the earrings. Diamond studs range from 0.5 to 5, but the most popular size is 1 carat. 

Stud earrings are best paired with simple, clean lines. Avoid chunky jewelry or anything that could compete with earrings for attention. These stunning diamond earrings match best with casual and formal looks alike.

Dangle Earrings

Dangle earrings are less common than stud earrings, but they’re perfect for special occasions. They come in many styles, from simple diamond hoops to elaborate chandelier earrings.

Complement any outfit with a pair of diamond dangle earrings. Whether you’re looking for something understated or over-the-top, we have the perfect pair of earrings. Of course, dangle earrings look best with formalwear, but they can also dress up a simple pair of jeans and a tee shirt.

Hoops

Hoops are a type of earring that consists of a small metal ring. Hoop earrings come in various sizes and styles, from simple gold hoops to diamond-encrusted chandeliers.

Outfits that pair best with diamond hoop earrings:

• A little black dress
• Jeans and a tee shirt
• A sundress

Chandelier Earrings

Chandelier earrings are a type of earring that consists of a series of small metal rings. Chandelier earrings also come in various sizes and styles.

Diamond chandelier earrings are the most popular type of chandelier earrings. However, chandeliers can also be found in other precious stones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.

Complement any dressy or formal outfit with a pair of chandelier earrings. First, choose a style that matches your dress’s neckline, and ensure the earrings are the appropriate size for your face. Chandelier earrings can be quite large, so choosing a pair that will complement your outfit is essential.

Staple Jewellery

Every woman needs a few staple pieces of jewelry in her wardrobe. You can wear these pieces with anything, from casual tee shirts to cocktail dresses. The most important thing to remember when choosing staple jewelry is to choose pieces you love, and that will last for years.

The staples jewellery:

• A pair of diamond stud earrings
• A gold or silver hoop earring
• A diamond pendant necklace
• A gold or silver bangle bracelet
• A pair of gold or silver hoop earrings

You’ll reach for these jewelry pieces repeatedly, so choosing wisely is essential. Look for classic, timeless pieces that will match any outfit.

Every woman needs a few staple jewelry pieces she can wear daily. For example, stud earrings and hoops are typically small, while pendants and bracelets can be any size.

Staple jewelry is versatile and can be worn with any outfit. Whether dressing up for a special occasion or dressing down for a casual day, staple jewelry is the perfect finishing touch.

Diamond Earrings Trends

The latest trends in diamond earrings include dangle, chandeliers, and stud earrings. In addition, diamond hoop earrings are also coming back, so check out our selection.

Dangle earrings are perfect for special occasions, while stud earrings and hoops can be worn daily. Chandelier earrings are a great way to dress up any outfit, so also check out our selection of chandelier earrings.

The most popular earring trend right now is the dangle earring. Dangle earrings come in many styles, from simple diamond hoops to elaborate chandelier earrings.

Visit Our Fine Jewelry Store in Houston, TX, and the Surrounding Area

We hope you enjoyed our overview of diamond earring styles and trends.

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of diamond earrings, visit Daniel & Co. in Houston, TX. Our knowledgeable and friendly jewelers will help you create the perfect pair of earrings to complement your style. 

We offer a wide selection of customized earrings, from simple studs to elaborate chandelier earrings. So visit us today and find the perfect pair of diamond earrings for you, or contact us to schedule an appointment!