At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
What are Chandelier Earrings?
Chandelier earrings are a type of long, often ornate earrings that dangle from an earring base, which may be a stud, hook, or clip-on type earring. A stud earring is a straight post that goes through the earlobe and is attached with a backing; a hook earring is a single strand of wire formed into a hook, inserted through the earlobe, generally without any type of backing; and a clip-on earring is somewhat less common in a chandelier style, but clips to a non-pierced earlobe. Chandelier earrings often have multiple levels of decoration, and may have some movement when they dangle from the earlobes.
Chandelier earrings come in many different styles, and may be very short and only extend slightly past the earlobe, or may be much longer and extend almost to the shoulder. They are designed to be very light, even when they are larger, in order to not stretch the earlobe or cause a tear in the piercing hole. There are many different materials used to create a pair of chandelier earrings.
Two of the most common materials used to create both the base and the wire for chandelier earrings are sterling silver and gold. However, some earrings may be made with hypoallergenic materials such as stainless steel, for those who may have difficulty wearing other earrings without having an allergic reaction. Often, this style of earring is considered costume jewelry and can be found in many jewelry stores for a fairly inexpensive price. However, some of these earrings are made with high-quality materials or gemstones, and may be quite expensive.
The "chandelier" part of chandelier earrings is typically made out of precious or semi-precious gemstones designed to sparkle and catch the light, similar to a real chandelier. Some chandelier earrings are made of diamonds or other, more expensive stones, while others may be made of lab-created gems. In addition, it is popular to add glass or plastic beads, sequins, or even occasionally feathers to these earrings. Many earrings of this type add multiple colors of gemstones or beads.
Chandelier earrings may be casual or dressy, depending upon their style, and the outfit with which they are worn. There are designs and colors available to match any outfit, and some people enjoy creating their own earrings. In addition, this style of earrings is especially popular for formal events, including weddings, because they can be very elegant, eye-catching, and attractive.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Gold wire is one of the most common materials used to make chandelier earrings.]()
By: AlexanderGordeevGold wire is one of the most common materials used to make chandelier earrings. -
![Chandelier earrings may feature feathers.]()
By: ILYA AKINSHINChandelier earrings may feature feathers.
Discussion Comments
Can anyone recommend a good place to buy wholesale chandelier earrings?
My friend recently opened a small clothing shop and she mostly deals with handmade items and vintage goods. She purchased some handmade rhinestone chandelier earrings from a local craftswoman but she is looking to expand her jewelry section.
We have spent some time looking online and it seems that the cheapest way to get wholesale chandelier earrings is by having them shipped in from Asia. This kind of brushes my friend the wrong way though as she prefers to buy American. Any suggestions for a good wholesale jewelry seller would be appreciated.
One of my favorite things to wear are turquoise chandelier earrings, as I find the color really compliments my skin tone, and they look great with just about anything. I think that when you wear something as bold as chandelier earrings, especially if they are extra long, you should makes sure to keep your top and slacks simple so you can keep the look focused.
What I love to do is where my chandelier earrings with a black turtleneck, skinny jeans and a great pair of heels. The look is really put together, but sexy too. You can't go wrong with keeping it simple.
When I graduated from college my mother gave me a gorgeous pair of pearl chandelier earrings to wear to our graduation party. The earrings have been in the family for quite awhile and are 14K gold chandelier earrings, making them valuable and pretty.
I have compared them to some of the new designer chandelier earrings and I have to say that I really like the more classic look. The earrings are very simple, but still manage to lengthen the neck and attract the right kind of attention. I am hoping to pass the earrings on to a daughter someday in the future.
I was really into the basic design beaded chandelier earrings when they became popular. I used to wear them in different colors almost daily during college. I think I grew out of this phase though. I don't enjoy beaded chandeliers much anymore, it might be because I'm older and it suits teenagers and college-age girls better.
Now I prefer larger, chandelier hoop earrings during the day and also fancier white gold or sterling silver chandelier earrings with stone gems. The latter looks so classy and nice when going out for a nice dinner date or for a holiday gathering.
@anamur-- I'm Pakistani and most of the Pakistani style chandelier earrings I wear are very heavy as well because they are so long and carry many jewels. But they also come with a metal string and hook that is attached to the hair. This supports the earring and takes some of the weight off of the ear.
Almost all of the Pakistani festive and bridal chandelier earrings come with this piece attached to it. It also looks very stylish when it's worn with traditional clothing because it adorns the hair and the design of the jewelry matches the outfit.
I'm sure you can find this type of chandelier earrings online. I buy fashion jewelry too and I think that more and more jewelry makers understand this concern because the more recent chandelier fashion earrings are pretty light. I hope they keep this up!
I love chandelier fashion earrings. Aside from work, I think they go great with any outfit and for any event. Especially when I have a solid color outfit on in white or black, I love adding some color and movement to my look with chandelier earrings.
The only downside to dangle chandelier earrings is that if it is made of a heavy metal, it can really wear down on the ears. I have a couple of earrings like that and even though I love how they look, I cannot wear them more than a couple of hours. If I go out with them, I end up removing them half-way through the night.
Post your comments