An%20ear%20clip%20is%20a%20type%20of%20mechanism%20of%20attaching%20earrings%20to%20your%20ear.%20These%20are%20typically%20omega-backs%20but%20without%20posts.%20Ear%20clips%20are%20perfect%20for%20women%20who%20do%20not%20have%20pierced%20ears.

Why do clip on earrings hurt my ears?

Clip-on earrings may hurt your ears due to the tension that the backings apply on the lobes. If your earrings have adjustable backs, try fastening them less tightly to reduce discomfort. You can also purchase cushions that stick onto the backings to help ease pressure. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of clip-on earrings.

Do clip-on earrings pierce your ears?

No, clip-on earrings don't pierce your ears. Instead of slipping through a piercing, a clip-on earring attaches to the surface of your earlobe with a fastener. Depending on the design of the earrings, the fastener may be a hinged clip, a screw, a tension bar or even a magnet. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of clip-on earrings.

What are earring clips called?

Earring clips are simply called clip-on earrings or clip-ons. The first clip-on earrings were produced during the late 19th century and featured screw-back fasteners. In the 1930s, hinged clips first appeared on clip-ons, making the earrings easier to wear. As a result, clip-on earrings grew in popularity and were a major trend by the 1950s. Shop a large selection of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.

What do you call clip on earrings?

Sometimes, people call clip-on earrings just clip-ons. Clip-on earrings also have names that describe their type. For example, hinged clip-on earrings feature a swinging clip fastener, while paddle backs have an adjustable tension bar for added security. Screw-back clips-ons must be turned to fasten. There are also slinging spring and magnetic styles. Explore a variety of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.

What is a clip post earring?

A clip post earring is an earring that features a backing called a French clip. It is a hinged, open wire that slides down over the post and rests against the back of the earlobe. Due to their backings, clip post earrings are less likely to rotate or shift during wear. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of French clip earrings.

What is a butterfly clip in earrings?

A butterfly clip is a type of earring backing. It is a metal disc that rests on two loops that help stabilize and secure it. To use a butterfly clip, you simply slide it onto the round post attached to an earring. Explore a large collection of earrings on 1stDibs.

Why are clip-on earrings better?

Clip-on earrings are better for some people owing to a few reasons. For starters, the earrings are undoubtedly better for you if you’d prefer not to have your ears pierced. Some people also feel that clip-ons are easier to get on and take off. In addition, those who love antique and vintage earrings will generally find that older pieces have clip closures rather than posts. (In the United States, ear piercing didn’t really become popular until the 1950s and ‘60s.) On 1stDibs, find a large collection of clip-on earrings.

Are clip-on earrings a thing?

Yes, clip-on earrings are a thing. They are earrings that feature backings that allow them to be worn on the ear, so it is possible to show off a pair without having ear piercings. Instead of slipping through a hole in the ear, clip-ons may be secured by a tension bar, a hinged clasp, a screw or even magnets. Explore a wide range of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.

What are French clip earrings?

French clip earrings are a type of earring with a specific backing. The design is typically characterized by an open wire clip with a hinge that swings shut to fit over the post and rest against the back of the earlobe. A benefit of the French clip is that it helps to keep earrings from bending or shifting during wear. Explore a large selection of French clip earrings on 1stDibs.

Do clip on earrings stay on?

Yes, clip-on earrings can stay on, provided they are in good condition. Over time, the clips on the earrings may loosen and no longer stay securely in place. Also, it's important to tighten the earrings properly to help them stay on. If you're concerned about slippage, look for clip-ons that have non-slip, padded clips. On 1stDibs, find a variety of clip-on earrings.

Why were clip-on earrings popular?

Clip-on earrings were popular during the 1950s and ’60s because many women didn't have their ears pierced but still wanted to wear earrings. During the 1930s, jewelry makers introduced new hinged closures for clip-ons that made the earrings easier to wear. As a result, more women found clip-on earrings to be appealing. Plus, the emergence of the middle class following World War II meant more women had expendable income to spend on luxuries like jewelry. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of clip-on earrings.

How do clip-on earrings stay on?

How clip-on earrings stay on comes down to their hardware. Every pair of clip-on earrings has a closure or clasp that helps to secure them in place. However, the designs vary. Options include screws, hinges, paddle backs, sliding springs and even magnets. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of clip-on earrings.

Are clip-on earrings any good?

Yes, many people feel that clip-on earrings are good. Clip-ons make it possible for those who don't have piercings to wear earrings every day or for special occasions. Plus, some people find clip-on earrings easier to put on and take off because they don't have to be slipped through the ear. Many antique and vintage earrings are clip-ons, so individuals who collect pieces like Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco earrings may own several pairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of clip-on earrings.

Can you use clip-on earrings on pierced ears?

Yes, you can use clip-on earrings on pierced ears. The different kinds of clasps featured on clip-ons will still secure them to your earlobes if you have a piercing. However, wearing clip-ons exclusively could cause your piercings to gradually close up over time. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of clip-on earrings.

Are invisible clip-on earrings comfortable?

Whether invisible clip-ons are comfortable is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, the clear backings that define invisible clip-ons are a form of soft, flexible resin. As a result, some people prefer how they feel against the ear compared to other clip-on earrings. Another advantage of invisible clip-ons is that the backing is difficult to see, creating the illusion that a person is wearing pierced earrings. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of clip-on earrings.

Are clip-on earrings better than piercings?

Whether clip-on earrings are better than piercings is a matter of personal opinion. People who don't wear earrings regularly may prefer clip-ons because they won't have to worry about piercings closing. Others may find that pierced earrings are more comfortable. Explore a large assortment of earrings from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do you wear vintage clip-on earrings?

To wear vintage clip-on earrings properly, first position them so that the decorative part is in front of your ear and the backing is behind it. Clip-ons feature a variety of backings, but regardless of type, the clips should generally be positioned so that the open part faces the ceiling and the hinge or closed part is near the earlobe. Once you have the earrings in place, secure the clasp. This may involve squeezing a clip or turning a screw or fastener. On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage clip-on earrings.

How do you get clip on earrings to stay on?

To get clip-on earrings to stay on, first ensure that they're in good condition. If the fasteners are loose, take them to an expert jewelry repairer to have them tightened. Many types of clip-on earrings need to be adjusted for tightness once in place. You may need to push on a tensioner or twist a screw to tighten them. You may also want to consider adding non-slip grips to the clips for added security. Explore a collection of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.

Do clip on earrings need piercings?

No, clip-on earrings don't need piercings. In fact, a big part of the appeal of clip-on earrings is that they allow anyone to dress up their ears with jewelry, even if they haven't had their lobes pierced. Clip-ons are available with many styles of fasteners, including screw backs, clear invisible backs, cuffs, sliding springs and even magnets. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of clip-on earrings.

Clip On Ear

Hammered Gold

Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry

Tiffany Gold Clip Earrings

Marina B Jewelry

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Titanium

Andreoli Titanium Ruby Diamond Flower Earrings Clip-On Ear

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Louis Feraud Clip on ear clips

Located in New York, NY

These Louis Feraud (Paris) Swarowski rhinestone ear clips are a sight to behold. Simply, but Bold

Category

Vintage 1980s Clip-on Earrings

Louis Feraud Clip on ear clips

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Dm 2 in

OFF WHITE crystal chandelier silver metal clip on ear cuff single

By Off-White

Located in Hong Kong, NT

OFF WHITE crystal chandelier silver metal clip on ear cuff single Reference: BSHW/A00103 Brand: Off

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Silver

OFF WHITE crystal chandelier silver metal clip on ear cuff single

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CHANEL clip-on ear signed 2CC3 quilted gold plated rhinestones

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Stuttgart, DE

ABOUT Iconic Chanel clip-on earrings, from the 1st collection by Victoire de Castellane. quilted

Category

Vintage 1980s French Artisan Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Crystal, Gold Plate

CHANEL clip-on ear signed 2CC3 quilted gold plated rhinestones

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W 1.19 in L 1.19 in

Chanel clip-on ear orange with CC signed 1995 P = Printemps - Spring

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Stuttgart, DE

A nice orange summer ear clip by Chanel, signed 95 P made of transparent lucite, comfortable to

Category

1990s French Arts and Crafts Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Crystal

Chanel clip-on ear orange with CC signed 1995 P = Printemps - Spring

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Dm 1.19 in

Vintage huge Etruscan style gold faux glass gemstone designer runway clip on ear

Located in Palos Hills, IL

DETAILS • unsigned • gold tone with jewel glass cabs • vintage designer runway clip on earrings

Category

20th Century Unknown Clip-on Earrings

Vintage huge Etruscan style gold faux glass gemstone designer runway clip on ear

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Dm 1.25 in

Vintage ANNE KLEINN huge matte gold chain rope pearl runway designer clip on ear

By Anne Klein

Located in Palos Hills, IL

DETAILS • unsigned ANNE KLEIN • gold tone • clip on designer runway earrings MEASUREMENTS

Category

20th Century American Clip-on Earrings

Vintage ANNE KLEINN huge matte gold chain rope pearl runway designer clip on ear

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W 1.18 in L 1.38 in

Chanel clip-on ear shape of a cross sign. 1970-1981, gold plated, faux pearls

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Stuttgart, DE

Very early ear clips by Chanel from the 70/80 years in the shape of a cross flanked by 4 false

Category

Vintage 1970s French Artist Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold Plate

Chanel clip-on ear shape of a cross sign. 1970-1981, gold plated, faux pearls

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W 2.17 in D 0.4 in L 0.2 in

Vintage Miriam Haskell set, necklace and clip-on earing collectore pieces, 1940s

By Miriam Haskell

Located in Stuttgart, DE

About Beautiful necklace with matching ear clips made of tiny pearls, completely hand embroidered

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Base Metal

Vintage Miriam Haskell set, necklace and clip-on earing collectore pieces, 1940s

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W 2.76 in L 15.75 in

Diamond Sapphire Pearl 18K Gold Ball Chain Dangle Drop Clip on Ear

Located in Miami, FL

Omega Clip for Non pierced ears, finished with exquisite work of thin chains and "By de Yard" style

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Sapphire, 18k Gold

Diamond Sapphire Pearl 18K Gold Ball Chain Dangle Drop Clip on Ear

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L 3 in

Palm Springs Fashionista Curated Vintage Earring Collection 1950s-2000 #3/100

By St. John

Located in Palm Springs, CA

(clip on) earings. Glam. Chic. Beautifully made.

Category

1990s Unknown Modern Clip-on Earrings

Palm Springs Fashionista Curated Vintage Earring Collection 1950s-2000 #3/100

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W 0.75 in L 1.75 in

Christian Lacroix Paris long clip-on ear heart with rhinestones in pink and gree

By Christian Lacroix

Located in Stuttgart, DE

A pair of very decorative Lacroix ear clips. On top the famous Lacroix heart, hanging from it a

Category

1990s French Artisan Dangle Earrings

Materials

Crystal, Gold Plate

Christian Lacroix Paris long clip-on ear heart with rhinestones in pink and gree

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H 3.35 in W 1.38 in

Diamond on Yellow Gold 18 Karat Ear Clips

Located in Geneva, CH

Diamond on Yellow Gold 18k Ear Clips. Circa 1980. Total height: 0.83 inch (2.10 centimeters

Category

Vintage 1980s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Diamond on Yellow Gold 18 Karat Ear Clips

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Colored Diamond Ear-Clips

Located in New York, NY

colored diamond ear-clips with flower centering a round brilliant-cut diamond, the petals pavé-set

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Artist Clip-on Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold

Colored Diamond Ear-Clips

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L 1.25 in

Zolotas Gold Ear Clips

By Zolotas

Located in New York, NY

A pair of 22 karat gold ear clips, with a weight of 33.7 grams. Signed Zolotas.

Category

Vintage 1970s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

22k Gold

Zolotas Gold Ear Clips

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Huge "Heart" Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

This wonderfully wicked '80s "Heart" Ear clips measures 1 1/8" in width, 1 1/8"

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Clip-on Earrings

Huge "Heart" Ear Clips

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Zolotas Gold Ear Clips

By Zolotas

Located in New York, NY

Most attractive sculptural earrings. Made and signed by ZOLOTAS. 22K textured gold. Beautiful organic shape, with a rich patina. 1" x 1 1/4." Omega backs with posts. Alice Kwa...

Category

Vintage 1960s Greek Clip-on Earrings

Materials

22k Gold

Zolotas Gold Ear Clips

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W 1 in L 1.25 in

David Webb Zebra Ear Clips

By David Webb

Located in New York, NY

From David Webb's Zebra collection, these ear clips feature the famous African animal's black and

Category

Vintage 1970s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

18k Gold

David Webb Zebra Ear Clips

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L 1.19 in

Vintage 18 Carat Clip on Earrings Ear Studs Turquoise

Located in Munich, Bavaria

These elegant clipon ear studs are made out of 18 karat gold and are set with cabochon turquoise.

Category

Vintage 1960s European Modern Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Turquoise, 18k Gold

Vintage 18 Carat Clip on Earrings Ear Studs Turquoise

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D 0.67 in Dm 0.56 in

Cartier Silver Ear Clips, 1970s

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Cartier silver ear clips, circa 1970s Oval shaped textured ear clips from the Jackie O collection

Category

Vintage 1970s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Silver

Cartier Silver Ear Clips, 1970s

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W 1 in L 1.31 in

Vintage Monet Marbelised Ear Clips

By Monet

Located in Dubai, DU

1980's Monet marbelised enamel ear clips, a stylish duo of eternal earrings that shimmer with

Category

Vintage 1980s Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Monet Marbelised Ear Clips

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Cartier Diamond Ruby Ear Clips

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Beautiful ear clips made by Cartier in 1980s. Designed as clusters of balls set with diamonds and

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold

Cartier Diamond Ruby Ear Clips

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Bvlgari White Gold Ear Clips

By Bvlgari

Located in New York, NY

Bvlgari white gold ear clips 18 karat white gold; marked Bvlgari, 750, Made in Italy Total weight

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold

W 1 in L 1 in

Citrine Diamond Dangling Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

Citrine diamond dangling ear clips Brilliant-cut diamonds of approximately 0.80 carat, 18 karat

Category

Late 20th Century Clip-on Earrings

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Citrine Diamond Dangling Ear Clips

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W 0.75 in L 1.75 in

SEAMAN SCHEPPS Shell Ear Clips

By Patricia Schepps Vaill for Seaman Schepps

Located in New York, NY

14k gold and cabochon ruby shell ear ear clips

Category

American Clip-on Earrings

SEAMAN SCHEPPS Shell Ear Clips

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Ram's Head Gold Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

Ram's head gold ear clips Hoops with ram's head at the end, 18 karat yellow gold, emerald stones

Category

Vintage 1970s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Ram's Head Gold Ear Clips

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W 1.15 in L 1.15 in

Crystal and Ruby Ear Clips

Located in Alford, MA

Dramatic rhinestone and ruby stone ear clips that follow the curve of the earlobe. The earpiece

Category

Mid-20th Century American Clip-on Earrings

Crystal and Ruby Ear Clips

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H 3 in W 0.75 in

Reja Retro Fretwork Ear Clips

By Reja

Located in New York, NY

metal. Good Condition, Clip back fittings. Unsigned. L 1 .1" x W 1".

Category

Vintage 1940s American Retro Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold Plate, Rhodium, Base Metal, Gilt Metal

Reja Retro Fretwork Ear Clips

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W 1 in L 1.07 in

Ilias Lalaounis 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Ear Clips Wheat Motif Ear Clips Earrings

By Ilias Lalaounis

Located in Perry, FL

Stunning Lalaounis 18k yellow gold and diamond ear clips in foliate motif design containing 10

Category

Early 2000s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Ilias Lalaounis 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Ear Clips Wheat Motif Ear Clips Earrings

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Boucheron Lapis Gold Ear Clips

By Boucheron

Located in Darnestown, MD

Tailored and chic 18 karat gold Boucheron earrings with oval lapis stones. Clip backs. Measurements

Category

Vintage 1980s French Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold

Boucheron Lapis Gold Ear Clips

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W 0.63 in L 1 in

Bvlgari Pearl Diamond Ruby Ear Clips

By Bvlgari

Located in New York, NY

A beautiful pair of ear clips made by Bvlgari. Each ear clip features a pearl center accented by

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Bvlgari Pearl Diamond Ruby Ear Clips

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Emerald and Diamond Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

Crafted in 18 karat yellow gold featuring 6 oval shape cabochon emeralds measuring approximately 10.30 x 8.00mm and 52 round brilliant cut diamonds. Weight 21.5 gr,/13.8 dwt. Sta...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Emerald and Diamond Ear Clips

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Ruby and Diamond Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

18 karat yellow gold Earrings containing Round Brilliant cut Rubies and approximately 1.80 carats of Full cut Round diamonds.

Category

1990s Unknown Artist Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold

Ruby and Diamond Ear Clips

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W 1 in L 1.25 in

Large Diamond Gold Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

This lovely pair of 18k yellow gold earrings, feature sparkling round cut diamonds that weigh approximately 10 carat. The color of the diamonds is H with VS clarity. The earrings mea...

Category

20th Century Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Large Diamond Gold Ear Clips

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W 0.78 in L 1.27 in

Valentino Starburst Runway Ear Clips

By Valentino

Located in Palm Desert, CA

Here are another pair of stunning runway earrings from the master Valentino. Shaped like starbursts with undulating rays, the centers are set with "coral" stones. Large and impressive!

Category

Vintage 1980s French Clip-on Earrings

Valentino Starburst Runway Ear Clips

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Dm 3 in

Ancient Coin 18k Ear Clip Earrings

Located in New York, NY

19th century ancient coin 18k ear clip earrings, stamped 750, 925 and 18k gold frame, approx 21

Category

Antique 19th Century Clip-on Earrings

Ancient Coin 18k Ear Clip Earrings

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Dm 0.83 in

Retro Cabochon Ruby Platinum Ear Clips

Located in New York, NY

Amazingly designed and masterfully handcrafted in platinum, these unusual avant-garde ear clips are

Category

Vintage 1940s Retro Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Ruby, Platinum

Retro Cabochon Ruby Platinum Ear Clips

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L 1.5 in

Nettie Rosenstein Retro Sunflower Ear Clips

By Nettie Rosenstein

Located in New York, NY

Nettie Rosenstein Retro Sunflower ear clips. Of rose gold plated sterling silver, white and black

Category

Vintage 1940s American Retro Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold Plate, Rose Gold, Sterling Silver, Gilt Metal

Nettie Rosenstein Retro Sunflower Ear Clips

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W 1.2 in

Vintage Monet X shape Ear Clips

By Monet

Located in Dubai, DU

Unlock the timeless sophistication of Monet with these exquisite X-shaped vintage ear clips, an

Category

Vintage 1980s North American Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Monet X shape Ear Clips

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Retro Turquoise and Diamond Ear Clips

Located in Weston, MA

These charming vintage ear clips feature an 18k yellow gold fan shape suspending a graduated fringe

Category

Vintage 1940s French Retro Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Retro Turquoise and Diamond Ear Clips

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W 0.8 in L 1.2 in

Vintage Monet Floral Pearl Ear Clips

By Monet

Located in Dubai, DU

Luxuriously designed for a timeless aesthetic, these vintage Monet floral pearl ear clips add

Category

Vintage 1980s North American Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Monet Floral Pearl Ear Clips

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JAR Gilt-Metal Pendant Ear Clips

By JAR

Located in New York, NY

These JAR ear clips feature gilt metal elongated pendants in a hammered finish with ear clips. 4 5

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gilt Metal

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W 0.75 in L 1.25 in

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Clip On Ear For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the clip on ear you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using Gold, 18k Gold and Yellow Gold. You can easily find a 1245 antique edition and 126 modern creations to choose from as well. Finding the perfect clip on ear may mean sifting through those created during different time periods — you can find an early version that dates to the 19th Century and a newer variation that were made as recently as the 21st Century. As it relates to this specific piece, our collection includes designs that are universally popular, but 1.5 Carat and 2 Carat carat weights, specifically, are sought with frequency. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic clip on ear over the years, but those made by Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels and David Webb are often thought to be among the most beautiful. While most can agree that any clip on ear from our collection can easily elevate most outfits, but the choice of a Diamond version from the 458 available is guaranteed to add a special touch to your ensemble. See these pages for a round cut iteration of this accessory, while there are also brilliant cut cut and cabochon cut versions available here, too. Most of our clip on ear for sale are for women, but there are 218 pieces available to browse for men.

How Much is a Clip On Ear?

Prices for a clip on ear can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $1 and can go as high as $720,000, while this accessory, on average, fetches $4,977.

Finding the Right clip-on-earrings for You

Crafted to match every color palette, mood or whim, a luxurious pair of vintage clip-on earrings, like any pair of earrings, goes a long way toward completing a look and contributing to the rich form of self-expression that is accessorizing with your favorite jewelry.

Everyone loves a glamorous pair of earrings, but not everyone wants their ears pierced. That’s where a dazzling pair of clip-ons comes in.

Wearing earrings goes back thousands of years, but ear piercing didn’t really become popular in the United States until the 1950s and ’60s. Over the years, jewelry designers have endeavored to create all kinds of clip-on earrings to provide jewelry lovers with a way to express themselves by wearing their favorite adornments without having to undergo the piercing process.

Whether it’s the extravagant diamond clip-on drop earrings or chandelier earrings that flappers donned during Art Deco’s heyday — short hair was in style during the era, so women favored big, bold earrings — or if subdued pearl earrings, platinum earrings (a particularly versatile choice) or a contemporary variety is your thing, clip-on earrings have been made in all kinds of styles over the years.

Clip-on earrings continue to be a comfortable alternative to the traditional iteration, and these accessories are as stylish and adaptable to both casual and formal wear as they’ve ever been.

Explore a vast range of vintage clip-on earrings on 1stDibs now, and find the perfect pair for any ensemble. Our collection includes striking clip-on earrings by David Webb, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels and others.

Questions About Clip On Ear

What is an ear clip?
1 Answer
Roman Malakov DiamondsMarch 22, 2021
An ear clip is a type of mechanism of attaching earrings to your ear. These are typically omega-backs but without posts. Ear clips are perfect for women who do not have pierced ears.
Why do clip on earrings hurt my ears?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
Clip-on earrings may hurt your ears due to the tension that the backings apply on the lobes. If your earrings have adjustable backs, try fastening them less tightly to reduce discomfort. You can also purchase cushions that stick onto the backings to help ease pressure. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of clip-on earrings.
Do clip-on earrings pierce your ears?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
No, clip-on earrings don't pierce your ears. Instead of slipping through a piercing, a clip-on earring attaches to the surface of your earlobe with a fastener. Depending on the design of the earrings, the fastener may be a hinged clip, a screw, a tension bar or even a magnet. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of clip-on earrings.
What are earring clips called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
Earring clips are simply called clip-on earrings or clip-ons. The first clip-on earrings were produced during the late 19th century and featured screw-back fasteners. In the 1930s, hinged clips first appeared on clip-ons, making the earrings easier to wear. As a result, clip-on earrings grew in popularity and were a major trend by the 1950s. Shop a large selection of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.
What do you call clip on earrings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
Sometimes, people call clip-on earrings just clip-ons. Clip-on earrings also have names that describe their type. For example, hinged clip-on earrings feature a swinging clip fastener, while paddle backs have an adjustable tension bar for added security. Screw-back clips-ons must be turned to fasten. There are also slinging spring and magnetic styles. Explore a variety of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.
What is a clip post earring?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
A clip post earring is an earring that features a backing called a French clip. It is a hinged, open wire that slides down over the post and rests against the back of the earlobe. Due to their backings, clip post earrings are less likely to rotate or shift during wear. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of French clip earrings.
What is a butterfly clip in earrings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
A butterfly clip is a type of earring backing. It is a metal disc that rests on two loops that help stabilize and secure it. To use a butterfly clip, you simply slide it onto the round post attached to an earring. Explore a large collection of earrings on 1stDibs.
Why are clip-on earrings better?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
Clip-on earrings are better for some people owing to a few reasons. For starters, the earrings are undoubtedly better for you if you’d prefer not to have your ears pierced. Some people also feel that clip-ons are easier to get on and take off. In addition, those who love antique and vintage earrings will generally find that older pieces have clip closures rather than posts. (In the United States, ear piercing didn’t really become popular until the 1950s and ‘60s.) On 1stDibs, find a large collection of clip-on earrings.
Are clip-on earrings a thing?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
Yes, clip-on earrings are a thing. They are earrings that feature backings that allow them to be worn on the ear, so it is possible to show off a pair without having ear piercings. Instead of slipping through a hole in the ear, clip-ons may be secured by a tension bar, a hinged clasp, a screw or even magnets. Explore a wide range of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.
What are French clip earrings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
French clip earrings are a type of earring with a specific backing. The design is typically characterized by an open wire clip with a hinge that swings shut to fit over the post and rest against the back of the earlobe. A benefit of the French clip is that it helps to keep earrings from bending or shifting during wear. Explore a large selection of French clip earrings on 1stDibs.
Do clip on earrings stay on?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
Yes, clip-on earrings can stay on, provided they are in good condition. Over time, the clips on the earrings may loosen and no longer stay securely in place. Also, it's important to tighten the earrings properly to help them stay on. If you're concerned about slippage, look for clip-ons that have non-slip, padded clips. On 1stDibs, find a variety of clip-on earrings.
Why were clip-on earrings popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Clip-on earrings were popular during the 1950s and ’60s because many women didn't have their ears pierced but still wanted to wear earrings. During the 1930s, jewelry makers introduced new hinged closures for clip-ons that made the earrings easier to wear. As a result, more women found clip-on earrings to be appealing. Plus, the emergence of the middle class following World War II meant more women had expendable income to spend on luxuries like jewelry. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of clip-on earrings.
How do clip-on earrings stay on?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
How clip-on earrings stay on comes down to their hardware. Every pair of clip-on earrings has a closure or clasp that helps to secure them in place. However, the designs vary. Options include screws, hinges, paddle backs, sliding springs and even magnets. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of clip-on earrings.
Are clip-on earrings any good?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Yes, many people feel that clip-on earrings are good. Clip-ons make it possible for those who don't have piercings to wear earrings every day or for special occasions. Plus, some people find clip-on earrings easier to put on and take off because they don't have to be slipped through the ear. Many antique and vintage earrings are clip-ons, so individuals who collect pieces like Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco earrings may own several pairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of clip-on earrings.
Can you use clip-on earrings on pierced ears?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
Yes, you can use clip-on earrings on pierced ears. The different kinds of clasps featured on clip-ons will still secure them to your earlobes if you have a piercing. However, wearing clip-ons exclusively could cause your piercings to gradually close up over time. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of clip-on earrings.
Are invisible clip-on earrings comfortable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Whether invisible clip-ons are comfortable is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, the clear backings that define invisible clip-ons are a form of soft, flexible resin. As a result, some people prefer how they feel against the ear compared to other clip-on earrings. Another advantage of invisible clip-ons is that the backing is difficult to see, creating the illusion that a person is wearing pierced earrings. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of clip-on earrings.
Are clip-on earrings better than piercings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
Whether clip-on earrings are better than piercings is a matter of personal opinion. People who don't wear earrings regularly may prefer clip-ons because they won't have to worry about piercings closing. Others may find that pierced earrings are more comfortable. Explore a large assortment of earrings from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do you wear vintage clip-on earrings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
To wear vintage clip-on earrings properly, first position them so that the decorative part is in front of your ear and the backing is behind it. Clip-ons feature a variety of backings, but regardless of type, the clips should generally be positioned so that the open part faces the ceiling and the hinge or closed part is near the earlobe. Once you have the earrings in place, secure the clasp. This may involve squeezing a clip or turning a screw or fastener. On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage clip-on earrings.
How do you get clip on earrings to stay on?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
To get clip-on earrings to stay on, first ensure that they're in good condition. If the fasteners are loose, take them to an expert jewelry repairer to have them tightened. Many types of clip-on earrings need to be adjusted for tightness once in place. You may need to push on a tensioner or twist a screw to tighten them. You may also want to consider adding non-slip grips to the clips for added security. Explore a collection of clip-on earrings on 1stDibs.
Do clip on earrings need piercings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
No, clip-on earrings don't need piercings. In fact, a big part of the appeal of clip-on earrings is that they allow anyone to dress up their ears with jewelry, even if they haven't had their lobes pierced. Clip-ons are available with many styles of fasteners, including screw backs, clear invisible backs, cuffs, sliding springs and even magnets. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of clip-on earrings.

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