Our outstanding earring selection offers perfect pairs: classic gold or diamond studs, on-trend hoop earrings, one-of-a-kind extraordinary earrings sure to fit that special occasion, and many more.
Diamond stud earrings remain the single most popular earring style, worn across every occasion from daily wear to formal events thanks to their versatility and universal appeal.
Diamond hoop earrings are a close second, with small and medium sizes seeing consistent demand as an everyday staple. Gemstone earrings featuring sapphires, emeralds, and rubies have grown steadily in popularity as more buyers look for color and personality beyond classic white diamond styles, and pearl earrings remain a perennial favorite for their clean, understated look.
How do I clean earrings?
The safest method for most earrings is soaking them in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 15 to 20 minutes, then gently scrubbing with a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove buildup around settings and posts. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth before storing.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for pearl earrings and porous gemstones like opals, as vibration and cleaning solutions can damage their surface — diamond earrings and gold styles handle ultrasonic cleaning well. For a complete step-by-step breakdown by jewelry type, visit our Home Jewelry Cleaning Guide.
What earrings are good for sensitive ears?
Platinum metal earrings and 14k or 18k gold are the best metals for sensitive ears because they contain minimal to no allergy-triggering alloys. White gold occasionally contains nickel, which is a common skin irritant, so platinum or yellow gold are safer choices for those with known metal sensitivities.
All earrings in the Blue Nile collection are crafted in precious metals, making them a reliable option for wearers who experience reactions from costume or base metal jewelry.
For a deeper look at which metals work best for reactive skin, our earrings for sensitive ears guide covers everything you need to know before buying.
How much do earrings cost?
Earring prices vary widely based on metal, stone type, and design complexity. Simple gold hoop earrings start around $180, while pearl stud earrings begin around $400. Diamond stud earrings range from a few hundred dollars into the thousands depending on total carat weight and stone quality — lab-grown diamond earrings offer the same optical and physical properties as natural diamonds at 20-40% less, making larger carat sizes more accessible within budget.
Why do people wear earrings?
Earrings have been worn across cultures for thousands of years as symbols of identity, status, and personal expression. Today most people wear earrings as a form of self-expression and to complement their overall style, whether that's a simple pair of diamond studs for everyday wear or drop earrings for a special occasion.
Earrings are also one of the most common jewelry gifts, given to mark milestones like birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries, because they suit almost every personal style and require no sizing.
Can you wear multiple earrings at the same time?
Yes, wearing multiple earrings across several piercings at once is a widely embraced styling approach. The most common method is combining a small diamond stud or plain gold stud in the first lobe piercing with a hoop earring or drop earring in a second piercing for a layered, curated look. A useful rule of thumb is to keep one ear simpler when the other has more going on — balance across both ears creates a more intentional overall effect than stacking on just one side.
Do earrings make good gifts?
Yes, earrings are one of the most versatile and universally appreciated jewelry gifts because they require no sizing and suit a wide range of personal styles. Diamond stud earrings and pearl earrings are two of the most popular gift choices given their broad appeal and ability to transition from casual to formal wear. For occasion-specific ideas across every budget, the Blue Nile jewelry gift guide has curated options for anniversaries, graduations, and more.
What metals are best for earrings?
Platinum and 14k or 18k gold, yellow, white, or rose are the best metals for earrings because they are durable, hypoallergenic, and maintain their finish over years of regular wear. Platinum is the most durable and naturally white option, while 14k gold strikes the best balance between hardness and purity for everyday styles like stud earrings and hoop earrings.
Rose gold has grown significantly in popularity for its warm tone and compatibility with both cool and warm skin tones, and works across gemstone earrings and diamond styles alike. For a full breakdown of how each metal performs over time, our jewelry metal durability guide covers the key differences to help you choose with confidence.