Earring Materials: A Guide to Jewelry Materials
When choosing the perfect pair of earrings, the material is just as important as the design. The right metal or stone not only enhances the look but also affects comfort, longevity, and how well the piece fits into your lifestyle. This earring materials guide highlights the beauty and strength of gold and platinum, while also exploring the timeless appeal of diamonds, pearls, and colored gemstones.
At Shreve & Co., our curated selection showcases the finest craftsmanship, featuring earrings that blend elegance with exceptional durability. Whether you are looking for everyday studs or a statement piece for special occasions, knowing what your earrings are made of will help you make a choice that lasts.
Gold Earrings: A Timeless Favorite

● Yellow gold brings a classic glow that pairs beautifully with diamonds and pearls. It has a traditional appeal that never goes out of style.
● White gold offers a cooler tone that complements modern designs and enhances the brilliance of diamonds.
● Rose gold adds a romantic, blush-hued touch that has become a favorite in contemporary jewelry.
Solid gold earrings are renowned for their exceptional durability and resistance to tarnish, making them an ideal choice for everyday wear. While styles may shift with fashion, gold remains a timeless choice that balances elegance with strength.
Platinum Earrings: Luxury That Lasts

For those seeking the ultimate in durability and prestige, platinum is a material that stands out. Naturally white and resistant to tarnish, platinum earrings retain their beauty over time. This makes them especially well-suited for heirloom pieces.
Platinum is also hypoallergenic, making it one of the best metals for individuals with sensitive ears. Its density gives it a weighty, luxurious feel, and it provides a secure setting for diamonds and other precious stones. From delicate studs to sophisticated drop earrings, platinum designs offer unmatched strength and refinement.
Diamonds: Brilliant and Iconic

While metals provide the foundation, diamonds bring unmatched brilliance. Diamond earrings are a staple in fine jewelry, whether in the form of simple studs, elegant drops, or dramatic chandelier designs.
Diamonds not only enhance the appearance of gold or platinum settings but also add versatility. They are sophisticated enough for black-tie events and subtle enough for daily wear. The combination of platinum or white gold with diamonds is particularly striking, as it enhances the stone’s natural sparkle.
When considering earring material comparison, diamonds consistently rank as the most enduring and symbolic choice, making them a favorite for milestone gifts.
Pearls: Classic Elegance

Pearls offer a different kind of beauty. Their soft luster and organic origins make them a timeless option for earrings. Set in yellow or white gold, pearls bring sophistication and grace to any look.
Unlike diamonds, pearls require more gentle care, but their unique glow makes them worth the attention. From traditional studs to modern pearl-and-diamond combinations, these earrings have a way of elevating both everyday and evening attire.
Colored Gemstones: Adding Personality

While diamonds and pearls are classics, colored gemstones bring individuality and personality to earrings. Sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and even modern gems like morganite or tanzanite offer vibrant hues that express personal style.
Set in platinum or gold, these stones make earrings feel truly unique. For those who want to move beyond neutral tones, gemstones add a touch of color that stands out while still feeling luxurious.
Choosing the Right Earring Material for You

When deciding between gold and platinum, consider how you will wear the earrings. Gold offers versatility with its range of tones, making it easy to match with other pieces in your collection. Platinum, on the other hand, offers lasting durability and a naturally white sheen that pairs beautifully with diamonds.
Adding diamonds, pearls, or colored gemstones further personalizes your choice. Think about whether you want the brilliance of diamonds, the classic appeal of pearls, or the bold expression of color. Each material has its own strength, and together they create endless possibilities for style.

Caring for Your Fine Earrings
Regardless of the material, proper care ensures your earrings remain in radiant condition. Remove them before swimming or showering, as even the strongest materials benefit from protection against chemicals and water exposure. Store them in a soft-lined jewelry box, and have them professionally cleaned and checked periodically to ensure stones remain secure.
For pearls in particular, avoid contact with perfumes or lotions, as these can dull their natural luster. Wiping them gently with a soft cloth after wearing helps preserve their beauty.
Elevate Your Collection with Shreve & Co.
This earring materials guide highlights the enduring elegance of gold, the strength of platinum, and the timeless beauty of diamonds, pearls, and gemstones. Each material tells its own story, offering a way to express both style and meaning.
At Shreve & Co., we are proud to offer earrings crafted from the world’s finest materials. Whether you are searching for a classic pair of diamond studs, pearl drops for a sophisticated evening, or gemstone earrings that add a pop of color, you will find pieces designed to last and to inspire.
Choosing the right earrings is not only about beauty but also about quality and craftsmanship. With gold and platinum as your foundation and the brilliance of precious stones as your accent, your earrings will remain treasures for years to come.