Earrings
Earrings established themselves as jewellery in various cultures even before Christian times. However, their shape and the meanings attributed to them have evolved considerably over the centuries. Today, ear jewellery is primarily a fashion accessory and an expression of personal personality and individual style. Learn more »
Social and cultural significance of ear jewellery
In our modern European society, ear jewellery is primarily a versatile fashion accessory that can be combined to suit any mood. Personal preferences and trends are clearly at the forefront here.
In past eras, however, jewellery had a different significance: it was used to emphasise one's status and was therefore reserved for certain social classes. Earrings were symbols of beauty, wealth, culture and individuality. It was not until the 20th century, when fashion and jewellery became increasingly individualised, that earrings began to take on a more personal meaning and break away from rigid social norms. In other cultures, however, jewellery still has functions that go beyond pure aesthetics. In indigenous civilisations, for example, earrings can also be a sign of maturity or social status, or they can symbolise belonging to certain tribes or ethnic groups. The spiritual significance of jewellery is therefore much more prominent here.
A brief encyclopaedia of ear jewellery
Earrings come in many different shapes and styles, depending on the occasion or current fashion trends.
Drop earrings
Earrings of this type hang freely from the ear and can have different lengths. Their styles and designs are limitless, ranging from short, subtle designs to long, opulent chandelier earrings. Earrings can therefore be used to cover a wide range of styles.
Hoop earrings
Hoop earrings are circular or ring-shaped earrings that are available in various sizes. This type of earring can be worn as a full circle or as a half hoop and has a long tradition in various cultures and among sailors. Hoop earrings are also found in the men's jewellery range.
Stud earrings
Stud earrings sit close to the ear and consist of a pin or stud that is inserted through the ear and secured at the back with a backing nut. These fastenings usually resemble small butterflies in shape, which is why they are also known as butterfly studs.
In past eras, so-called ear screws were also popular. The pin of the ear stud was grooved and resembled a thread onto which the ear nut was screwed. Ear piercings are essential for this type of ear jewellery.
Ear clips
Ear clips can be worn without pierced ears as they are ‘clamped’ to the earlobe by a clip mechanism. Ear clips were particularly popular in the mid-20th century and remain an attractive choice today for those who do not have (or do not want) pierced ears.
Brisur
The term ‘brisur’ refers to the fastening of an earring. This can be, for example, ear hooks, butterfly fastenings , fold-back clasps (ear hooks with a fold-back clasp on the back), omega clasps (studs with a fold-back clasp on the back) or clips.