Have you ever thought about the importance of the backings when choosing an earring? The world of earrings is very wide, there are earrings for every type of face and style. The same goes for backings. Each earring design is determined by its type of back that adapts to the tastes and needs of each person.
You probably don't know it, but backs are a fundamental part of earrings. When purchasing an earring we usually give more importance to the showiest part, that is, the one that will be shown off in all its splendor. However, it is important not to neglect the type of closure of earrings as it will determine whether the earring will be comfortable and most importantly, more or less easy to remove.
For this reason, we want to vindicate the importance of this so-forgotten part by sharing the specific characteristics of each type of earring back with the aim of facilitating the choice of your perfect earring.
Type of earring backs:
Snap back or wingnut
In jewelry, most earrings have a snap back which can be either a screw or wingnut back. The wing nut back is the most common and used as a back for earrings, because of its convenience and ease. You only have to insert the stick in the nut and exert a little force. Having a slight groove allows a perfect fit to each lobe.
It is important not to force the stick so that it does not bend or break because although it is a very easy back to place if it is not done delicately you can end up breaking the earring. This closure, by its design and adaptation to the ear, is the safest. It is practically impossible to tear a lobe with a wingnut, even while sleeping. Another of its benefits is that it does not cause any type of allergic reaction, and will not pull on your ear, no matter how heavy it is.
The snap back is a classic in the jewelry world. It is the most commonly used back in silver and gold mini earrings, but it can also be found in a wide variety of models, with different sizes and shapes.
Hook back
One of the most modern and practical backs to wear. Also called hippie back or hook back, it consists of a hook that is inserted into the ear hole and hangs in the back. It is found in light earrings, which are not too heavy, as they could damage the earlobe. Normally, it is used in youthful designs, as it brings a current and fresh air.
There are two types of hook closures: open and closed.
You have to be careful when choosing them, as a very large hook could be uncomfortable or pull your ear. In the case of the open ones, if the hook is too small, it could easily come off or get caught on clothes or hair, causing us to lose our jewelry.
To avoid this, there are silicone backs that work perfectly with this type of hook. They are those that are generally used to make handmade earrings. In this sense, we recommend you look for an intermediate size that, in addition, adjusts to the height of your neck.
Catalan back
Also known as the crossbow back, the Catalan back is a mix between the snap back and the hook back. Unlike the earring back, the crossbow back has a hinged lever that is adjusted with a hinged lever that passes under the earlobe, and attaches to the earring stick. It is very easy and comfortable to wear, as it does not press on the skin, and also very secure. However, it is always advisable not to sleep with this type of back as it can snag more easily.
The Catalan back is generally used on small hoop earrings, as it is hidden in the design of the hoop, making it easier to close them. This type of back is usually ideal for the first communion of a girl between 8 and 9 years old.
This type of earring back is shaped like a curved hook that passes through the earlobe hole and can be closed or opened. This earring back is very comfortable and easy to put on, which makes it so popular. It is one of the favorite earring closures for elongated earring styles and a great choice for more daring looks.
Omega back
The omega back is the traditional back for earrings. It is one of the oldest earring backs, as it owes its name to the fact that it is shaped like the letter omega in the Greek alphabet. You will recognize it because it combines a smooth pin that goes through the lobe with another part that presses it with the earring, and helps to hold it in place.
Its structure can support a larger step than other types of backs, so it is used in large earrings, which may include pearls or stones, and is heavier. They are very comfortable and provide great security. Undoubtedly, it is the type of back preferred by older ladies, as it provides comfort, security, and elegance.
This a modern reinterpretation:
Bar type back
It is used in climbing earrings, they follow the shape of the ear lobe and, in this way, the earring is adjusted and does not fall. It is a very fashionable type of back.
Ear Clip
Although not a back as such, this type of earring fits the ear and does not require piercing to stay in place. Designed to be worn on the cartilage, pressure is put on itself to tighten it to the ear so that it does not fall out. Very fashionable today, they are comfortable and eye-catching.
Congo back
It can be called in several ways: congo, African, inserted, hidden, threaded. It is very common in hoop earrings and consists of a thin articulated bar that fits into the other end of the hoop, thus being "hidden" and forming the complete hoop.
Screw back
This type of earring back is the most secure and comfortable back available. It is mainly used for baby earrings and very recently for piercings. It is an earring back that is attached to the shank with a thread and usually has a rounded shape that gives it the comfort and security that characterizes it.
We hope that this small guide has helped you to solve your doubts and that, from now on, you will be able to choose your earrings knowing perfectly the type of earring back you are wearing. Our recommendation is that whatever type of earring back you choose, avoid sleeping with your earrings on, as any of the backs can potentially tear the lobe during the night.
