Earrings

Origins and etymology of earrings

Since time immemorial, earrings have been a cherished piece of jewelry in many cultures, bearing witness to the evolution of fashion and personal expression.
The etymology of this jewelry leads us to the Latin root “pendere,” meaning “to hang.”
It is said that the tradition of adorning oneself with loops originated in Western Asia around 3000 BCE. Furthermore, the oldest earrings date back to 2500 BCE and were discovered in the royal tombs of Ur, in present-day Iraq.
Thus, these jewels, with their ability to enhance the beauty of the wearer, have remained true to their essence as ornamental danglings throughout human history.

Ancient earrings as symbols of status and protection

In ancient civilizations, pendants transcended mere aesthetics, carrying profound meanings.
In Egypt, for example, it was believed that earrings protected those who wore them from evil spirits. Ancient Rome saw earrings as symbols of status and wealth, exclusively worn by the privileged elite, with larger and more elaborate jewelry signifying higher status.
As civilizations flourished, loops evolved, adopting diverse shapes and materials.

The modern age, individual expression and versatility

Pendants have transformed into tools of individual expression over centuries. The Renaissance introduced extravagant designs reflecting the opulence of the time, while the Industrial Revolution marked the onset of mass production, making this jewelry accessible to a wider audience. From pearl pendants in the 1950s to hoop earrings in the 1960s and oversized hoops in the 1980s, each decade has left a mark on the evolution of this jewelry. Contemporary fashion embraces diversity, allowing earrings to adapt to any style and personality. At Rosanna de la Riva, we encourage you to design your own look, selecting the pendants model that best suits your persona from collections like The Air Collection, Basic, Dita, Capri, Essential, Origins, Mediterranean, Roma, Marais, and Boho. This jewelry, with their fascinating variety of styles, have significantly impacted the world of fashion throughout time.

Timeless classic jewelry

Classic earrings are enduring jewels that have stood the test of time, remaining popular for their simplicity.
Stud or button pendants, thanks to their elegance and sophistication, are ideal for both daily wear and special occasions, complementing a wide range of outfits. Crafted with classic pearls, gemstones, or diamonds, using materials like gold or silver, these pendants are small, discreet, and comfortable.
Hoops, a versatile option available in various thicknesses and sizes, have become wardrobe essentials, suitable for any occasion and style.
Criolla Hoops, with an 80mm diameter, or the Dita Hoops, smaller yet elegant, showcase the versatility of this style.
Sleeper pendants, closing with a hook, are comfortable and secure, while “chandelier” earrings, featuring multiple pendants, add sophistication to any look.

Modern earrings: Original and bold

For those who follow the latest trends, modern loops are a perfect choice.
Characterized by diversity and avant-garde designs, these earrings reinterpret classic styles using innovative designs and unusual materials.
Mediterranean Earrings, inspired by natural elements, exemplify originality. Asymmetrical pendants offer groundbreaking designs, ranging from geometric shapes to combinations of pendants and hoops.
Vibrant colors and unusual materials make modern earrings eye-catching, catering to those who seek to stand out.
Straight lines, abstract shapes, and angles are common in modern jewelry, including square, triangular, or hexagonal pendants.
XL earrings, with their striking size, are ideal for special events, available in various colors, shapes, and materials.
If you’re bold enough to try this style, consider the Essential Earrings plated in matte gold, which, due to their shape, command attention. Finally, fringe pendants, a current trend, add dynamism and movement to your look.

Hoops, a timeless classic that never fails

Hoop are a must-have in any jewelry collection, eternally stylish and versatile.
Defined by their circular shape, they come in various thicknesses and diameters. From dainty, slender hoops perfect for everyday wear and minimalist outfits, to larger or thicker hoops that make a statement, they cater to a range of styles and occasions.
Whether smooth or textured, adorned with charms or stones, hoop earrings offer endless possibilities.
Consider trying the classic Capri Hoops, sleek and unembellished with an 18k gold plating, or the original Aire Hoops, featuring a hammered texture and silver plating.
When selecting hoops, it’s important to take your face shape into account. Oval faces can pull off any style of hoops effortlessly. Square-faced individuals may find curved or rounded hoops more flattering, while those with round faces can opt for elongated or drop hoops to complement their features.

Long earrings, movement, and sophistication

Long pendants bring an element of sophistication and dynamism to any ensemble, serving as a fantastic choice for adding length and flair. These accessories are distinguished by their length and ability to make a bold statement. They come in both understated, minimalist designs and intricate, refined styles.
Crafted from a variety of materials, colors, and shapes, long earrings dangle elegantly from the earlobe, making them ideal for formal occasions or adding a touch of glamour  to everyday wear.
The Marais Earrings blend metal with a matte finish and resin pendants for a contemporary look. Chain earrings, available in varying thicknesses, offer a versatile and avant-garde option, whether worn alone or paired with additional adornments like gemstones or pearls.
Drop earrings, typically crafted from precious metals and embellished with gemstones, exude timeless elegance.
Hanging earrings feature a single pendant, such as gemstones, pearls, or charms, suspended from a long chain.
Alternatively, chain pendants, composed solely of a chain with or without a pendant, offer a sleek and modern aesthetic. Consider trying the Capri Earrings, exquisite chain earrings plated in 18k gold and adorned with vibrant charms, for a playful yet sophisticated touch.
For a bohemian-inspired look, opt for feather pendants or those adorned with colorful beads.
Your face shape should guide your choice of long earrings. Square faces may benefit from asymmetrical or curved designs, while round faces can be complemented by long, slender earrings that elongate the features. Oval faces have the versatility to pull off any style of long earrings effortlessly.

Button earrings, discretion and sophistication

Classic stud earrings, also called “stud earrings”, are known for their elegant yet simple design that never goes out of style. These earrings are flat and small, so they fit perfectly on the earlobe.
Their minimalist design has made these earrings a very versatile option to match your wardrobe. They are suitable for both formal occasions and to add a touch of class to your everyday look without being too flashy. In addition, they do not easily get caught in clothes or hair, so they are comfortable to wear.
Button earrings come in different shapes, whether round, triangular, square or heart-shaped, and also with decorative details, such as pearls, gemstones or enamels, with which you can create more extravagant outfits.
These pieces are made with different materials, such as silver, gold or platinum, or with cheaper materials such as stainless steel. But there are also more modern designs, made with wood, crystals or even plastic.
Rosanna de la Riva’s Dita Collection offers button earrings, such as the round Dita Earrings or the square Dita Earrings, all of them bathed in matte silver.

Geometric design earrings, creativity and innovation

Geometric earrings have become one of the most popular trends in today’s jewelry world and are an alternative to more traditional styles.
They are characterized by their avant-garde and minimalist design, inspired by geometric shapes such as circles, triangles, squares or lines that bring a touch of originality and modernity to your image. These shapes can be simple or complex and can be presented individually or combined with each other.
Geometric earrings are based on elegance and simplicity of shapes, so they are a versatile piece that can be combined with different styles, from more formal outfits to casual looks.
Also, these jewels are usually comfortable and light to wear, which makes them the perfect accessories for everyday use.
Nowadays, circles are a geometric shape that is frequently used in earrings. They can be simple hoops or more sophisticated circles with gemstones, openwork designs, spirals or concentric circles.
Earrings with square elements are a modern option that brings a touch of extravagance to any look. They can be small, large and eye-catching squares or be adorned with enamels, gemstones or other decorative elements. They can be made of wood, plastic, metal or even stone.
The Aire Earrings are long, they have two circles as pendants and their silver plating gives off a very beautiful light. The Capri Earrings are also long and have three shiny silver-plated squares that give this jewelry a very nice light look.