Which length of drop earrings should you choose?
A short drop earring, falling just below the lobe, can be worn every day, at the office as well as on weekends. Long drop earrings need a little more room, they go well with hair tied back or cut short and an open neckline. The Ninon earrings, long and fluid, are made of several chains, like the Serpent multi-chain earrings. About fifteen models come in an 8 cm length.
Are drop earrings heavy to wear?
It depends on the model, and weight matters more than length for the comfort of the lobe. The Vega and Andromède earrings weigh 1.4 grams, the large Vega earrings 2.8 grams, and the Orion and Sélène half pairs go down to 0.8 gram. At the other end, the rhodium-plated Astra weigh 8.8 grams and the Solène 9.7 grams. If your lobes are sensitive, start with a light pair on a fine chain, and keep the fuller models for evenings or for a few hours only.
Which materials and which colors should you choose?
Most models are in 925 sterling silver, polished, rhodium-plated or gold-plated. The Alix come in a silver finish or gold-plated with 18-karat gold. The Joséphine feature cubic zirconia briolettes mounted on a 1 mm cable chain. Other pairs combine crystal, pearl, mother-of-pearl, resin or turquoise, for a touch of blue. Other pairs are in stainless steel or colored acetate, lighter and brighter. The flower motif recurs on several earrings, and the Foglia petal earrings play on the shape of the petal.
Can you buy a single earring?
Yes, some models are sold individually. The Orion half pair and the Sélène half pair are in 925 sterling silver and cubic zirconia, the Sélène having a platinum-tone rhodium plating. They suit a second piercing, a mismatched ear or a mix with a stud on the other side. To put this look together, see our stud earrings, piercings and ear cuffs.
How do you store and care for drop earrings?
Fine chains quickly get tangled in a drawer. Hang your pairs or store them flat, each in its own pouch, away from moisture. Put them on after hairspray and perfume, and take them off before sleeping so as not to bend the fastenings. Silver that darkens is revived with a soft cloth, and the steps are explained in the silver care guide.
