Probably more than any other type of jewelry, earring styles reflect the times we live in. Tiered diamonds reminiscent of an elegant era, diamond studs from the innocent fifties, huge gold hoops from the flowing sixties, and pearl solitaires, your daughter's first jewelry. All these styles have become classics and can be worn with confidence in today's versatile clothing designs.

Backings:
Screw-backs, push-backs, latch-backs, omega-backs, or simple hooks, everything but a hatch-back, all are time honored designs for earrings. Don't worry so much about the backings on your earrings, they're all good. Of course, if you have sensitive ears, you may want to consider the omega setting. An omega shaped lever holds the earring snugly in place with just a gentle press against the lobe. As always, examine the construction. Just because no one will see the backs of your earrings doesn't mean that shoddy soldering is permissible. If it looks sloppy, it's probably not well made.

Buying tips:

1. Diamond studs, pearl solitaires or other gemstone earrings must be checked for quality settings. Wiggle and shake the piece gently, if the stones feel loose, get another pair.
2. Check the soldering. This is always a dead giveaway for less than acceptable craftsmanship.
3. Pick many styles, you can literally never have too many earrings. Diamond studs can go with business suits, blue jeans and cocktail dresses. Pearl studs can be worn from age three to ninety three. Teardrop gemstone styles are perfect for elegant occasions and hoops are just plain fun.