Women, and men have been adorning their ear lobes with earrings since ancient times. Most of the oldest examples, which were generally worn by royalty and the very wealthy, are held in museums today. Modern reproductions take inspiration from older styles, such as the Victorian era.
At Friarhouse we have a selection of Art Deco and Vintage earrings for you to choose from with a good range of diamond stud earrings of various carat weights.
Stud and Cluster Earrings
Stud earrings originated in the late 1800’s to 1900 when fashions of the day dictated a change. Fine gemstones such as diamonds, were still in demand, but simpler styles were needed to work with high collars on clothing.
Screw backs were more prevalent from the early 1900’s to the early 1950’s before post and butterfly fittings became popular.
Cluster Earrings are a form of Stud earrings that sit on the earlobe of the wearer, and often feature a single central diamond, gemstone, or pearl, but are surrounded by multiple stones to form a small cluster.
Take a look at these stunning Vintage, Topaz and Diamond Cluster Earrings.
Antique diamond stud earrings are versatile and look good worn every day or on special occasions.
Drop Earrings
The term "drop" for an earring style is a catch-all term, as there are many variations of dangle earrings that fall into this category. They usually have a dangling element attached to an ear wire, screw back, clip finding, or a simple stud post without an elaborate matching top.
An example at Friarhouse are these beautiful Art Deco Pear Cut Aquamarine and Diamond Cluster Drop Earrings.
Antique drop earrings can be made of everything from natural elements such as precious metals, jet, and gemstones. Vintage fashion versions can incorporate glass, plastics, and natural substances such as wood.
Drop earring styles have been widely reproduced based on antique examples.
Button Earrings
This type of round earring can be domed or sometimes flattened, but does not have a dangling element. The style became popular in the 1930’s and is still popular - the materials vary from decade to decade. Its name refers to the resemblance of an actual clothing button.
Earlier examples fasten with screw backs while those made in the 1950’s and '60s usually have clip backs.
Chandelier Earrings
A chandelier earring resembles the fancy form of decorative lighting sharing the same name. This style of drop earring usually has some length to it and can be quite elaborate with multiple layers of dangles or tiers. Some styles referred to as chandeliers have more of a cascading appearance while others have multiple arms with a number of elements dangling from them.
They are found in antique fine jewellery made of gold and genuine gemstones, and also glass and plated base metals in costume jewellery.
Top and Drop Earrings
This is a style of earring with two round or oval sections with the second, immediately suspended from the first. When the bottom drop is detachable, they are often referred to as day to night earrings.
The style dates back to the late 18th century, popular during the Georgian era. Although originating centuries ago, the style remains popular.
