For a few years now, diamond earrings have been garnering the spotlight in mainstream fashion. With minimal jewelry becoming a trend these days, diamond earrings are a perfect choice to buy for yourself or a loved one. 

While a lot of people are intrigued with these shining studs, not many know where and how to begin. Is it the large diamond or the small ones that they should choose? Should they stick with white gold or yellow gold? Undeniably, there is a plenty of factors to consider when buying a diamond earring pair.

If you are purchasing this accessory for the first time and have no clue whatsoever, we have compiled this ultimate diamond earrings shopping guide in 2024 to help you walk on the right path and make an accurate investment. 

Things to Keep in Mind While Buying Diamond Earrings

One of the difficulties with buying diamond earrings is that there are ample options available. Considering that, you surely wouldn’t want to purchase something inauthentic or spend a huge amount unnecessarily. Having said that, here are some things to keep in mind while buying diamond earrings: 

Occasion of Purchase

Are you trying to buy a pair of diamond earrings for a forthcoming celebration or an event? There is a possibility that you have made up your mind to gift yourself the first pair of studs to feel more empowered. Or, you might be searching for a perfect present for that someone special. 

diamond earrings

Regardless of the reason, diamond earrings are a precise addition to a jewelry collection. Worn with formal, casual, or daily attire, this pair is a staple in most women’s wardrobes. Also, there are varying designs matching the occasion you want the earrings for. So, keep that in mind while making a purchase. 

Setting a Budget

The next step is setting a budget. If you are wondering how much you should be spending on diamond earrings, know that there is no certain price point. These earrings come in diverse price ranges. Thus, it entirely depends on how much you can spend willingly.

To help you out further, the following is a quick breakdown of the average cost of stud earrings as per their carat size:

0.10 carats

$500 - $1000

0.50 carats

$1000 - $2000

1.00 carats

$2000 - $4000

1.50 carats

$7500 - $9000

2.00 carats

$12000 - $13000

2.50 carats

$14000 - $15000

 

One thing to be kept in mind here is that you should be cautious of the carat size of your earrings. Considering that this accessory comes in a pair, some sellers might label them with one diamond’s carat size. For instance, a round-cut diamond earring pair could have a label of 1.50 carats. So, the total carat size for both diamonds will be 3.0 carats. 

diamond and pearl earrings

As you begin shopping, you will come across various alluring designs under different price ranges. Try and look for options within your budget so as to not overspend. 

The 4C’s of Diamond Studs

Another significant factor impacting the price of diamond earrings is the 4C’s of a diamond. Here is everything you should know about it: 

  • Carat Weight

Carat weight is referred to the diamond’s weight and is an important aspect when discussing the diamond’s size. The larger the carat, the bigger it will look and the heavier it will be. Also, the heavier the carat, the more expensive it will be. However, if you just wish to stay comfortable when wearing your diamond earrings, make sure you restrict the weight between 0.10 carats to 4.00 carats. 

  • Color

This is the evaluation of the diamond’s color. This factor impacts the price significantly as well. Diamonds that are colorless are more expensive than those that carry a slight tint of yellow, grey, green, or pink. When buying earrings, make sure both are the same or similar in terms of color grade. 

  • Clarity

This factor evaluates how clean your selected diamond is. Earth-mined diamonds come naturally from within the Earth’s crust. Thus, they have more flaws and imperfections and are known as inclusions. A diamond that is clear and has little or no inclusion is extremely expensive. 

The most prevalently used system for diamond clarity grading was developed originally by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This system makes use of 11 grades to describe the lack or presence of clarity in diamonds, such as:

IF or FL

Internally Flawless or Flawless

VVS1 or VVS2

Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 is better than VVS2)

VS1 or VS2

Very Slightly Included (VS1 is better than VS2)

SI1 or SI2

Slightly Included (SI1 is better than SI2)

I1, I2, or I3

Included (I1 is better than the I2 and I3

 

  • Cut

This measures the way a diamond is shaped or cut. Round-cut diamonds are more expensive than the rest of the shapes as they are the most popular and widely preferred. Other than that, you can find a variety of other cuts as well, such as oval, princess, teardrop, cushion, and more. The more unique the cut is, the more expensive it will be. 

Selecting the Shape of Diamond Earrings

The next step is understanding the variety of diamond shapes available out there and choosing the one that matches your style and face cut. Below mentioned are the top shapes of diamond earrings to consider: 

  • Round Diamonds

By far, the round cut is the most popular shape. Its exquisite and round shape enhances the brightness and sparkle of diamonds. If you have a round solitaire ring, you can pair it with your round-cut diamond earrings for a better look. 

  • Hearts and Arrows

Upon first glance, you may think this cut is the same as the round shape. But, it has been cut in a certain way that creates a different magnificence because of its amazing symmetry and polish. The subtle heart and arrow shape of the cut creates extraordinary shimmer. 

  • Princess Diamond Cut

A princess-cut appeals to people with its square shape that makes it an easy choice for diamond earrings. Furthermore, this cut also provides an excellent sparkle and shine because of the modified and vivid facet arrangement. 

  • Cushion Cut Diamond

Also called the old mine cut, this one has been popular for several years now. However, lately, the round cut shape edged the cushion cut diamonds. The top of this cut looks square with round corners. Compared to a round cut, it doesn’t offer much light but its vintage look acts as the attraction.  

  • Asscher Cut

This cut was a preferable choice in the 1920s but lost its popularity after that. In recent years, it has resurged. This diamond cut can be recognized by its unique square shape featuring edged corners. 

  • Emerald Cut

It looks something like a lengthened Asscher cut but has a unique shape to it. Unlike most diamonds, this one is a step cut, meaning that it doesn’t sparkle as much as other shapes and cuts but looks bigger and is capable of creating flashes of light. 

  • Marquise-Cut

This cut is somehow shaped in a football from above and is known for its brilliant sparkle. It is an accurate choice to make the stud look bigger as it carries a lot of surface area on the top. The marquise cut also comes with a rich history as it was originally made to resemble the sparkling smile of France’s King Louis XIV’s mistress. 

  • Oval Shape

This one is another popular consideration for a unique look. An oval shape is trendy and offers an elongated version of a circle. It feels distinct and classic at the same time. Also, there are different widths available in this shape for you to choose from. 

  • Pear/Teardrop Shape

At last, there is a pear-shaped diamond. It is also called a teardrop shape. For those looking for something bold and elegant, this one would be the right fit. A pear shape has become widely popular among new-age buyers as everybody wants to buy something that sets them different from others. 

Deciding on the Metal

A diamond earring pair is available in different metal settings. Knowing about the available option and what effects they can have on your earlobes, in the long run, can help you choose something more cautiously. So, here are a few things to consider when deciding on the metal of your earrings. 

  • Gold vs Platinum

diamond earrings in gold

When confused between gold and platinum, know that the latter is much denser than the former one. Therefore, platinum offers a heavier feel, irrespective of the size of the earrings. While the difference may not be humongous, it is recommended to evaluate both options accordingly. If your earlobes are sensitive to weight, gold will be better for you than platinum. Also, when at it, consider how long you are going to wear the earrings. This will help you choose the best option. 

  • Metal Weight

While the weight of the metal is not as important as people might think. Yet, there is no harm if you gain some education on metal weights before you start shopping. This step will help you make sure your earrings are nothing but comfortable. 

  • Metal Color

Selecting the metal color for the earring set is a personal preference. Still, there are a few factors that you may miss consider. Diamonds are reflective gems. Thus, the color of their encasing metal is an important consideration. White gold or platinum metal can augment the appearance of the stone’s carat weight. 

On the contrary, some may choose to make their studs reflect contrast. A sparkly diamond earring in yellow gold metal offers a stunning look in this scenario. If your earrings are snuggled in an intricate setting, the contrast will improve the details.  

  • Allergies Caused by Metals

In case your ears are allergic to certain metals, don’t worry as it is a prevalent issue. A lot of people are struggling with sensitivities because of metals available in gold alloys, such as copper and nickel. So, here are some tips that will help you avoid metal allergies when choosing diamond earrings: 

  • Tips to Avoid Metal Allergies

If your ears are sensitive and you contract allergies much more easily, here are some tips to avoid metal allergies with ease:

  • Platinum is generally hypoallergenic and useful for those who contract metal allergies quickly. 
  • Platinum decreases allergic and irritation reactions.
  • Avoid using rose, white, and yellow gold if your ears are extremely sensitive to them or other alloy metals.

Choose the Diamond Stud Setting

The setting you will choose for your earrings will majorly depend upon your style as well as the shape and cut of the stone. Here are some options to choose from: 

  • Halo Setting

Halo settings are preferable in the earrings and rings categories. With a halo setting, you can easily add more brilliance to the center stone as it simply reflects off of the small halo stones. 

  • Bezel Setting

This is one of the oldest settings in the jewelry world. Bezel settings securely hold the diamond in place while letting you display a precious metal as per your choice. It also creates a metal perimeter that encloses the stud, providing it with a more uniform and modern look. If you want to add a unique metal to your earrings, such as platinum, yellow gold, or rose gold, you can go with this setting. 

  • Four-Prong Setting

4 prong setting diamond earrings

A four-prong diamond setting provides elegance and timeless attraction. Four prongs simply mean there will be less metal covering the stone; thus, letting the diamond pop and become a highlighter. This will make the diamond look more squared off. This way, it turns out to be an accurate setting for cushion-cut and princess-cut diamonds. 

  • Three-Prong Martini Setting

As it can be deciphered from the name, the three-prong martini setting looks like a martini glass and lets the stone rest much closer to the earlobe. This setting is made to fit the diamond, creates a flush setting, and is true to the size. 

Select the Right Earring Back for You

It is always recommended that you buy something that is protected and safeguarded to an extent so there are minimal chances of losing the studs when you are wearing them. Hence, selecting the right earring back becomes of utmost importance here. There are two types of earring backs to select from, such as: 

  • Push-Back

Also known as butterfly and friction earring back, these are the most common types of closures in the market. They are majorly popular because they are easy to wear on and off and offer ultimate security.

  • Screw Back

These are also known as threaded backs. The screw backs are thicker in diameter; thus, they keep the studs securely in place and avert them from falling off. In case your earlobes are sensitive, screw-back closures would not be an appropriate choice for you. Moreover, if you are not used to removing screws, you will find it more painful, challenging, and frustrating to wear your on and off your earrings. So, make sure you select cautiously. 

Wrapping Up

diamond and gemstone earrings

Now you are aware of almost everything you must know concerning the purchase of diamond stud earrings. All that is remaining now is to decide which one you are going to choose. Ultimately, you must pick something that you will enjoy wearing. Diamond earrings are all about enhancing your style and adding sparkle to your overall personality. So, choose something that you will love for eternity.

It's also essential to ensure you buy earrings from a reputable and authorized retailer, especially if you are purchasing online. The earrings should come with an authenticity certificate and should be free of conflict. So, without further ado, begin your spree of choosing the right shape, metal, and size of diamond earrings.