Which Ear Wires Are Right for You?

Studs are the most popular earring style, but you’ll rarely find them listed at French Ostrich. That’s because our eclectic and often bohemian style lends itself to a slightly more adventurous look: drop earrings!

From dangles to chandelier earrings to everything in between, I love the way a good pair of drop earrings can start conversations and turn heads. Here are some fun facts about the types of materials I use in creating earring designs.

Why French ear wires?

Drop earrings need a good ear wire to keep them comfortable, lightweight, and durable. I tend to favor French ear wires, also known as Shepherd hook ear wires. They’re easy to put on and take off, and offer movement to the earring. They’re often a very basic U-shaped hook, but hand-crafted ear wires can be designed in numerous ways.

What are they made of?

I use three different metals for my French ear wires: sterling silver, gold filled, and niobium. (Note: You’ll never find the inexpensive so-called “hypoallergenic” ear wires from big box stores on my earrings. If you’re a customer, you know I strive to use the best materials.) You’ve probably heard of sterling or gold-filled, but for those of you who are curious or have specific needs when it comes to your earrings, I’ve put together some facts about each material.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is an alloy, meaning it’s a mix of more than one metal. Sterling is made of over 90% fine silver mixed with a small amount of copper. It’s nickel-free, so great for those of you who are allergic to nickel. Sterling silver is beautiful and durable, which is why I use it in some of my earring designs. I love making my own ear wires with sterling silver wire as it allows me to design unique earring styles.  

Gold Filled

“Gold filled” is a bit of a misnomer, as it is actually a coating of gold that is used on top of another metal, usually brass. Gold filled wire is at least 5% gold, which often makes the coating thicker and more durable than the layer of gold that goes onto “gold plated” jewelry.

Because of the thickness of the gold layer, gold filled wire give you a lasting, quality finish that won’t wear off with regular use. If you love a classy finish, or are just on the hunt for some unique earrings, French Ostrich has you covered… in gold!

Niobium  

You might be asking, “Whaaat?”

Niobium (pronounced “nai-oh-bee-um”) is a chemical element with its own number on the Periodic Table of Elements, and was first discovered in the early 1800s. Niobium wire provides a hard and lightweight wire perfect for drop earrings.

Most people have never heard of niobium, but I’m starting to use it more and more for my ear wires. Why? Because it’s the one metal that is truly hypoallergenic! Niobium is even used in the medical devices that are implanted into the human body. The cost of niobium is actually slightly more than sterling silver, but well worth it for those who are allergic to various metals. Niobium can be safely worn throughout the day without causing reactions in sensitive skin.

Which ear wires are right for you?

Because all the materials we use at French Ostrich are lightweight and durable, you can confidently choose any design that catches your eye. Even if you’re searching for a gift for someone else, you can be sure that they will love the comfortable, easy styles.

Whether you prefer shiny gold or a more bohemian style, there’s something for everyone in the earring shop! Check them out and let us know if you see a design you love!