Not all earrings are made the same. Some are designed for pierced ears, others can be worn without ear piercings. Earrings with clip on earring backs are a great choice if you aren’t ready to commit to a piercing. Whether your ears are not pierced at all or you’re looking to create an earring stack without opting for additional piercings, clip-on earring backs are one of the practical options to consider.
Clip On Earring Backs: What are They?
Clip on earring backs allow earrings to be attached to your ears by putting pressure on both sides of your earlobe. Initially, they were designed for non-pierced ears in the Victorian era when piercing ears was frowned upon. However, as the times have changed, earrings for pierced ears became popular and they are everywhere. Yet, earrings for unpierced ears hold a significant spot in the jewelry world.
Unlike traditional earrings, clip-on earrings don’t need a hole in the earlobe to be worn. As a result, they’re typically safer because there’s no risk of allergies or infections that can cause due to ear piercings. Below are some of the popular styles of clip-on backs.
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Screw Back Clip On Earring Backs
Screw backs were the first clip-on earring backs, popular in the Victorian era and patented in the late 1800s. They use a standard screw-back design. A little screw with a flat head is secured on the underside of the earring, pushing the earring against the lobe. Unlike conventional clip-on earrings, the hinge on these earrings may be adjusted for your comfort.
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Resin Pad Clip On Earring Backs
Resin pad clip on earrings are the latest style in the clip on earring back category. They are considered the most comfortable clip on earring backs. Unlike standard clip-on types, resin pad clip ons do not have a “clip”. Instead, the earrings are held in place by altering the gap of the clasp. The backing is simple, and the tension is adjustable. This style is great for lightweight earrings.
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Hinge Clip On Earring Backs
This style first appeared in the 1930s as an alternative to screw-back clip-ons. These earring backs have a hinge clip gripping both sides of the earlobe. They’re quick and easy to use, and this style rules out the possibility of pain.
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Paddle Back Clip On Earring Backs
Paddle backs were introduced a decade after hinge backs, but they only gained popularity in the 1950s. They have a paddle clip with a tension bar, so all you need to do is snap them on and you’re good to go! Like a flat back that sits flush against your earlobe, paddle backs are comfortable earring backs for sleeping as well.
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Invisible Clip On Earring Backs
Invisible clip-ons are made from resin or clear acrylic, making them lightweight and a great option for those who are allergic to most metals. In addition, these clips can be adjusted to your comfort and can be paired with a variety of earring styles. Just slip them onto your earlobe and adjust the tension.
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Mini Clips
Mini clips are a popular choice with small earrings and are perfect for those who have small earlobes. A wedge-shaped hinge and tension bar keep the earring in place. This style is better suited for lightweight earrings.
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Sliding Spring
The sliding spring back is often used in hoop earrings. Simply slide the spring back and slip it onto your ear for a classic hoop look. These earring backs are adjustable and highly practical. The best hoop earrings for women with no piercings are the ones designed with sliding springs.
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Screw Hinge
This hybrid of the classic screw back and hinge combines the best of both worlds. Developed in 1963, the screw hinge has the best locking earring backs with the convenience of the screw and the finer adjustability of the hinge.
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Ear Cuffs
Ear cuffs are a must try for those who love stacking earrings but don’t have piercings. Simply adjust them to hug your ears so that they sit snugly without any pain. They’re the most versatile clip ons and come in a variety of designs.
