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Hoop Earrings: Ultimate Buying Guide

By:  Jane Olagunju

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Hoops Earrings Buying Guide

Hoop earrings are true classics and a must-have for every woman. These versatile earrings have stood the test of time, and no matter what fashion season you’re in, they’re always the perfect choice.

With so many different types of hoop earrings available today, choosing the right one can be a bit of a challenge. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the most comfortable hoop earrings that reflect your unique style and personality. Whether you’re searching for staples or a pair for special occasions, this guide is exactly what you need.

What Are Hoop Earrings?

Hoops are timeless earrings known for their circular shape. They are designed to form a loop around a piercing, dangling off the earlobe like a ring. While traditional hoops are often thin and large, modern hoops come in various shapes, sizes and colors.

The circular shape of the hoops symbolizes strength, wholeness and unity. They are stylish and perfect for elevating your casual look or making an elegant statement.

Common Hoop Earring Sizes

Common-Hoop-Earring-Sizes

Hoops come in a variety of sizes–an important factor to consider when choosing the right pair. Here are some of the most common sizes of hoop earrings for women:

  • 9-15 mm: This size is the smallest and hugs the earlobes tightly.
  • 20-25 mm: This size falls between small and medium hoops, and hangs close to the earlobes.
  • 30-40 mm: This is a medium size and is most commonly used in everyday hoop earrings. It noticeably hangs off the ears.
  • 45-50 mm: This size includes medium to large statement hoops.
  • 60 mm and above: This size features large hoops that dangle close to the collarbones.

Popular Hoop Earring Types

Here are some of the most popular hoop earrings, giving you a glimpse of the different types of hoop earrings you can choose from:

1. Huggies

These small, elegant hoops are a must-have in every woman’s jewelry collection. They fit snugly around the earlobe, adding a touch of sparkle to your look. Huggies are daintier hoop styles, often embellished with gemstones. If you’re looking to level up your ear stack, these are definite go-tos.

Read: Difference Between Hoop and Huggie Earrings

2. Classic Hoops

Classic hoops are timeless pairs that come in specific sizes and metal thicknesses. They are versatile and perfect for any style or occasion, whether you’re going for a casual look or dressing up.

3. J Hoops

J-hoop earrings are exactly what the name suggests— they are open hoops shaped like the letter J. These stunning hoops come in a variety of styles and can be worn for casual or formal occasions. They feel lighter than classic hoops but still make a statement.

4. Inside Out Hoops

Inside-out hoops are classic earrings with a modern twist. They feature gemstones set on the inside of the metal, increasing the sparkle and making them more captivating. These are the perfect hoop earrings you can wear 24/7 for an elevated look.

5. Drop Hoops

Drop hoops are a cross between hoops and drop earrings, available in various designs. They are characterized by their simple yet elegant hoops, enhanced with stylish drops that dangle off the hoops. The drops can be gemstones, charms or other danglers.

Other stylish hoop earrings offer a modern take on the classic hoops, with options such as textured, two-tone, dome, chunky, double, twisted and more.

Shop Gemstone Hoops

Pairs that reflect your personality.

Angara

Good | Platinum | 1.13 carats

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Sapphire and Diamond Huggie Hoop Earrings
Angara

Good | Yellow Gold | 0.44 carat

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Emerald and Diamond J-Hoop Earrings
Angara

Good | White Gold | 2.53 carats

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Cushion Morganite Drop Earrings with Diamond...
Angara

Good | White Gold | 2/3 carat

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Airline-Set Enhanced Black Diamond Hinged Hoop...

How to Choose Hoop Earrings

Whether you’re looking for the best small silver hoop earrings or different types of gold hoop earrings, here are essential factors to consider when choosing the right pair:

1. Take Your Face Shape Into Consideration

Consider your face shape when buying hoops. Certain styles complement specific features, while others may detract from them. Here are some suggestions:

  • Round face: Go for smaller hoops of 30mm or less. Pick angular styles like square, triangular-shaped or hexagonal hoops.
  • Oval face: Opt for small, thick hoops of 3mm width and 25mm diameter.
  • Square face: Large hoops that drop towards the collarbones, past the jawline are your best bet.
  • Inverted triangular face: Consider going for medium to large hoops of about 35 mm.
  • Diamond face: Huggies or smaller hoops that remain close to the ear will complement your face shape.
  • Heart face: Hoops of any size with a thicker width will work for you.

2. Consider Your Personal Style

Choose hoops that reflect your unique style. By doing so, you’ll be getting yourself a timeless pair that you’ll love and wear for years to come. Wide hoops exude glam, making them a perfect choice pair for dressier looks, while slim hoops elevate casual outfits.

3. Select the Gemstone and Metal

Select-the-Gemstone-and-Metal for hoops earrings

You can opt for the ever-popular diamond hoops or add a pop of color by picking colored gemstones like sapphire, ruby, or emerald, among others. For metals, consider the following:

  • Yellow Gold: This traditional metal color pairs well with warm skin undertones.
  • White Gold: This chic metal color pairs well with cool skin undertones.
  • Rose Gold: Feeling romantic? This trendy metal color is perfect for those with neutral skin undertones.
  • Platinum: If you’re looking for the best hoop earrings for sensitive ears, this luxe, hypoallergenic metal that pairs beautifully with cool skin undertones should be at the top of your list.
  • Silver: Another popular hypoallergenic metal and a more affordable option.

4. Pay Attention to the Details

Choose a design that matches your unique taste in jewelry. For a classic look, go for timeless and simple hoops. If you want to stand out, opt for statement pairs. You can also choose hoops based on specific occasions, ensuring you have go-to pairs for different events.

How to Style Hoop Earrings

How-to-Style-Hoop-Earrings

The way you style your hoops reflects your personality. Here are some ways to elevate your look with classic hoop earrings:

  • Create an everyday ear stack with hoops of varying sizes, shapes, and colors that suit your style.
  • For a casual look, medium to large hoops can add a layer of sophistication to your outfit.
  • Keep it professional with a pair of huggies or mini hoops that match your formal attire.
  • For an evening outing, dress up with classic or inside-out hoops for an elegant ensemble.
  • Looking for a staple pair? Opt for J-hoops that are light, comfortable, and perfect for every look.

Shop Diamond Hoops

Hoops you’ll love to wear on a loop.

Angara

G, VS2 | Yellow Gold | 1/2 carat

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Floating Diamond Inside-Out Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | Rose Gold | 1/4 carat

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Classic Diamond Hinged Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | White Gold | 1/6 carat

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Prong-Set Round Diamond Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | White Gold | 1/5 carat

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Classic Diamond Studded Double Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | Platinum | 1/10 carat

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Pave-Set Diamond Hinged Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | Rose Gold | 1 carat

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Prong-Set Diamond Inside Out Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | Yellow Gold | 1/4 carat

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Prong-Set Diamond Cross Hoop Earrings
Angara

G, VS2 | Platinum | 1/5 carat

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Pave-Set Round Diamond Hinged Hoop Earrings

How Much Do Hoop Earrings Cost?

The price of hoop earrings can vary significantly depending on the design of the hoops, type, and quality of the gemstone, metal, size and width. For instance, a pair of silver inside-out hoops studded with 1-carat K, I3 diamonds can cost $1,008 while the same pair in platinum can cost $2,007.

At Angara, our hoops start at $179 and can go up to over $10,000. If you’re seeking a budget-friendly alternative, consider lab-grown gemstones. These gems are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural stones but cost up to 90% less. They offer a stunning, cost-effective option without compromising on quality, making them the perfect choice if you want to stay within budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are diamond hoop earrings in style?

Yes! Diamond hoops are more stylish than ever. These versatile, statement-worthy earrings suit everyone’s unique style.

Q2. What are the best materials for hoop earrings?

For metals, gold, platinum and silver are top choices. For gemstones, diamonds are traditional, but colored gemstones like ruby, emerald, amethyst, tanzanite, and aquamarine are also excellent options.

Q3. How do I care for my hoop earrings?

To make your hoops last longer, take them off before certain daily activities, like workouts or bathing. Clean them regularly and store them in a cool, dry place.

Q4. How do I choose the right size hoop earrings?

Consider your face shape, personal style, and the occasion when choosing the right size of hoops.

Q5. How to wear hoop earrings?

Gently unclasp the earring, depending on the type of clasp it has. Hold the hoop with your dominant hand and hold your earlobe with your non-dominant hand. Carefully insert the bar of the hoop through your piercing and clasp it behind your earlobe.

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