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 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.

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.

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.

How do you use vintage clip-on earrings?

How you use vintage clip-on earrings depends on what type of backing they have. Some simply feature a hinged clip that you open, slip over your ear and then press gently to close. Others may require you to turn a screw or shift a tension bar. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of vintage clip-on earrings.

Are clip-on earrings still a thing?

Yes, clip-on earrings are still a thing. Some makers continue to produce earrings with clip-on backs to suit the needs of those without pierced ears or who want jewelry that is easy to put on and take off. In addition, many people continue to wear antique and vintage clip-ons. On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of clip-on earrings.

Why are most vintage earrings clip-ons?

Most vintage earrings are clip-ons largely due to how beliefs about piercings have changed over the years. It was only during the 1980s and ’90s that many women began piercing their ears. Prior to that, many women didn't have piercings and could only wear clip-ons, so makers produced earrings to suit their customer base. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of vintage 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.

Cat Clip Earrings

Cartier Cat

Van Cleef Bracelet Green

Van Cleef And Arpels Cat

Category

2010s Italian Modern Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold

SS20 Moschino Couture Jeremy Scott Gold Cat Eye Clip On Earrings Trick or Chic

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Christian Lacroix Paris clip-on earring, star shaped, gold plated, 1980/90s

By Christian Lacroix Paris

Located in Stuttgart, DE

About Christian Lacroix Paris, clip-on earrings star shaped gold plated with rhinetones, 1980/90s

Category

Vintage 1980s French Modern Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Crystal, Cat’s Eye

Christian Lacroix Paris clip-on earring, star shaped, gold plated, 1980/90s

H 1.78 in W 1.5 in

Isabel Canovas Vintage Gilt Cat Dangle Earrings

By Isabel Canovas

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Vintage gold-tone metal "metal dore" clip-on dangle statement earrings featuring large ornate

Category

Vintage 1980s French Artisan Clip-on Earrings

Isabel Canovas Vintage Gilt Cat Dangle Earrings

W 1.2 in L 2.6 in

Vintage XL Gilt Stylized Cat and Fish Earrings by Isabel Canovas

By Isabel Canovas

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Scarce vintage jumbo stylized "metal dore" gilt metal cat and fish clip-on earrings by Isabel

Category

Vintage 1980s French Artisan Clip-on Earrings

Vintage XL Gilt Stylized Cat and Fish Earrings by Isabel Canovas

H 2.5 in W 1.5 in

Gilded Cheshire Cat Figural Earrings With Charm Dangles By Kirks Folly, 1980s

Located in McKinney, TX

and faceted crystal beads - Alice in Wonderland motif - Clip on earring backs - By Kirks Folly

Category

Vintage 1980s American Modern Clip-on Earrings

Gilded Cheshire Cat Figural Earrings With Charm Dangles By Kirks Folly, 1980s

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Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl Earrings with Rough Diamonds and Rubies, 18 Karat Gold

Located in New York, NY

A stunning pair of earrings with Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl (appx. 28 cts), Rubies (0.60 cts), and Rough

Category

2010s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Chrysoberyl, Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold

Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl Earrings with Rough Diamonds and Rubies, 18 Karat Gold

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L 1.25 in

Enamel Marionette "Wild Cats" Lion Statement Earrings By Lunch At The Ritz

By Lunch at the Ritz

Located in McKinney, TX

- Articulating limbs - Clip on earring backs - By Lunch At The Ritz (signed on verso) - Comes with original

Category

1990s American Modern Clip-on Earrings

H 0.19 in W 0.08 in

Oval Green Tourmaline Cats Eye Diamond Gold Clip Post Earrings

Located in Stamford, CT

Natural untreated green cats eye Tourmaline 14k yellow gold diamond clip post earrings Two full

Category

20th Century Lever-Back Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Tourmaline, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold

Oval Green Tourmaline Cats Eye Diamond Gold Clip Post Earrings

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Set in 18K Gold, Alexandrite Cat's Eye and Rose Cut Diamonds Chandelier Earrings

Located in Hong Kong, HK

A very chic and gorgeous pair of Alexandrite Cat's Eye & Rose Cut Diamond Earrings set in 18K White

Category

2010s Hong Kong Modern Chandelier Earrings

Materials

Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Alexandrite Cat's Eye and Rose Cut Diamonds Chandelier Earrings

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W 0.4 in L 1.38 in

Lion Head Stud Earrings with Sapphire Eyes & Hinged Omega Posts in Yellow Gold

By Eytan Brandes

Located in Sherman Oaks, CA

and definition to the big cats' faces. The eyes are set with natural (heat only) dark blue sapphires

Category

2010s American Contemporary Stud Earrings

Materials

Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Lion Head Stud Earrings with Sapphire Eyes & Hinged Omega Posts in Yellow Gold

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W 0.63 in L 0.63 in

Fred of Paris 1970 Enamel Sauvage Cat Brooch 18k Gold with Diamonds & Emeralds

Located in Miami, FL

cat in solid yellow gold of 18 karats with textured finish. The cat is embellished with black spots

Category

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Brooches

Materials

Emerald, White Diamond, Diamond, Enamel, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold

Fred of Paris 1970 Enamel Sauvage Cat Brooch 18k Gold with Diamonds & Emeralds

W 1.37 in D 0.71 in L 2.36 in

Vintage Pair of 14 Karat Gold Tiger-Face Earrings with 87 Diamonds

Located in Shippensburg, PA

PAIR OF GOLD AND DIAMOND "TIGER" EARRINGS WITH EMERALD EYES Item # C104268 An exquisite pair of

Category

20th Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Multi-gemstone, Gold

Vintage Pair of 14 Karat Gold Tiger-Face Earrings with 87 Diamonds

H 1.5 in W 0.88 in D 1 in

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Gilded Abstract "Gold Rush" Series Pinecone Texture Earrings By Crown Trifari

By Trifari

Located in McKinney, TX

- Vintage item - Each earring measures 1" tall - Gold plated - Clip on earring backs - By Crown Trifari (signed on clips) - From the "Gold Rush" series from the Trifari Fall/Win...

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Vintage 1960s American Modern Clip-on Earrings

Gilded Abstract "Gold Rush" Series Pinecone Texture Earrings By Crown Trifari

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Christian Dior Vintage 1980s Large Half Hoop Twist Rope Chunky Clip Earrings

By Christian Dior

Located in Wokingham, England

Christian Dior Vintage 1980s Large Half Hoop Twist Rope Chunky Clip Earrings, Gold Tone Very good condition. Some light scratches or colour loss, barely noticeable. One earring back...

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Vintage 1980s German Art Nouveau Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold Plate

Christian Dior Vintage 1980s Large Half Hoop Twist Rope Chunky Clip Earrings

W 0.63 in L 0.99 in

Vintage Miriam Haskell Grape Cluster Earrings

By Miriam Haskell

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Scarce Miriam Haskell grape cluster clip-on earrings, designed by Robert F. Clark for Miriam Haskell circa 1955. Comprised out of gilt metal, French swirl green glass beads, and rhin...

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Mid-20th Century American Artisan Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Miriam Haskell Grape Cluster Earrings

H 3.75 in L 0.75 in

Jasmine Earrings

By Bounkit

Located in New York, NY

The Jasmine Earrings, crafted from semi-precious materials, feature a leaf design with a removable bottom, allowing for a versatile and simpler style. Inspired by vintage aesthetics....

Category

2010s North American Retro Drop Earrings

Materials

Quartz, Aventurine, Gold Plate

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Keshi Pearl & Garnet Dangle Earrings

Located in Amagansett, NY

14K Gold Plated Keshi Pearl Earrings with Garnet Pear stone at bottom.

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2010s North American Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Materials

Garnet, Pearl, Gold Plate

Keshi Pearl & Garnet Dangle Earrings

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W 1 in L 1.75 in

Maison Gripoix Chanel Emerald Camelia Ear Clips

By Maison Gripoix for Chanel

Located in New York, NY

Chanel by Maison Gripoix pale emerald green signature poured glass enamel and faux pearl nacre cabochon Camelia ear clips. Settings of hand made gilt bronze wire work. 1990's France...

Category

1990s French Romantic Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold Plate, Bronze, Enamel, Gilt Metal

Maison Gripoix Chanel Emerald Camelia Ear Clips

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W 1.63 in L 1.63 in

Maison Gripoix for Chanel Pale A mythestFlower Earrings

By Maison Gripoix

Located in New York, NY

Maison Gripoix Flower Earrings from the 1980's, France. Handmade poured glass pale amythest petals with center motif of citrine petals and faux pearl. Chanel used this process until ...

Category

Vintage 1980s French Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gilt Metal

Maison Gripoix for Chanel Pale A mythestFlower Earrings

H 1.75 in W 1.75 in

Herve Van Der Straeten Vintage Hammered Gilt Purple Glass Earrings

By Herve Van Der Straeten

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Vintage artisan Herve Van Der Straeten hammered gilt metal architectural earrings with purple glass drops, made in France circa 1980/90 - signed on the back.

Materials

Crystal, Turquoise, Pearl, Gold, Gilt Metal

Couture Chanel Pre1955 Signed France Gripoix PouredGlass Goosens Earrings

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W 0.99 in D 0.79 in L 1.19 in

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Vintage Enamel Heart Dangling Earrings

By Yves Saint Laurent

Located in Nice, FR

YVES SAINT LAURENT vintage gold toned heart dangling earrings (clip-on) featuring a gorgeous lace detail, orange enamel, green crystal and glass cabochon embellishement. Embossed YS...

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20th Century French Clip-on Earrings

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Gilt Metal

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Vintage Enamel Heart Dangling Earrings

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H 2.49 in W 1.62 in

Chanel 1992 Gripoix pearl and lucite clip on earrings

By Chanel

Located in PARIS, FR

Chanel 1992 (Season 28 by Victoire de Castellane) large Gripoix glass pearl and lucite 24k gold plated clip on earrings, 1.6 x 1.6 inches, very good condition

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1990s French Clip-on Earrings

Chanel 1992 Gripoix pearl and lucite clip on earrings

Talosel and Mirror Line Vautrin Sautoire

By Line Vautrin

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Spectacular sautoire necklace in delicate golden bronze iridescent mirrored fragments, all set in color 'talousel', French resin, by Line Vautrin - made in France circa 1950/60s.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Artisan Chain Necklaces

Talosel and Mirror Line Vautrin Sautoire

W 0.75 in L 46 in

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Sorrento Sterling and Jade Filagree Clip Earrings

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Oval sterling silver filigree clip on earrings with jade stone. Stamped Sorrento Sterling

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Vintage 1960s Unknown Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Jade, Sterling Silver

Sorrento Sterling and Jade Filagree Clip Earrings

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W 0.79 in L 0.99 in

1940s Enamel Diamond Gold Platinum Cat on the Moon Earrings

Located in New York, NY

A pair of Retro three-color gold earrings in the form of a crescent moon with pavé diamond

Category

Vintage 1940s Retro Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum

1940s Enamel Diamond Gold Platinum Cat on the Moon Earrings

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Fabulous Signed Ciner Roaring Leopard Cat Pin and Earrings Set

By Ciner

Located in Montreal, QC

Featuring an amazing Leopard Pin and clip Earrings, gold tone with red and black enameled spots

Category

1990s American Modernist Clip-on Earrings

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Gold Plate

Fabulous Signed Ciner Roaring Leopard Cat Pin and Earrings Set

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W 1.18 in D 0.47 in Dm 1.18 in L 1.18 in

Retro White Gold Earring & Pin Suite

Located in New York, NY

Pair of 14kt White gold Clip-on Earrings of cat tail floral Bouquets set with round & Baguette

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Vintage 1940s American Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold

Retro White Gold Earring & Pin Suite

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Vintage Bakelite green cat head clip back earrings

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Vintage Bakelite green cat head clip back earrings...Smiling green Bakelite cats have green stone

20th Century American Modern Clip-on Earrings

David Webb Yellow Gold Cat's Eye Black Enamel Clip-On Earrings

Denise Roberge Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Diamond Earrings

By Denise Roberge

Located in Darnestown, MD

Sporty and stylish earrings by Denise Roberge. Each is centered with a cat's eye chrysoberyl

Category

1990s American Modern Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Chrysoberyl, Diamond, 18k Gold

Denise Roberge Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Diamond Earrings

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1980s Tiffany & Co. Diamond Gold Cat Earrings

By Tiffany & Co.

Located in London, GB

A fine pair of Tiffany 18k yellow gold cat earrings. These rare earrings take the form of two cats

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold

1980s Tiffany & Co. Diamond Gold Cat Earrings

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14kt Yellow Gold Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Dome Earrings

Located in Palm Beach, FL

cabochon-cut, cat's eye chrysoberyls. Clip backs marked "14k" "Pat.2423905". Measuring approximately 21mm

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Vintage 1930s Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Chrysoberyl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

14kt Yellow Gold Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl Dome Earrings

W 0.83 in

1982 Bulgari Parentesi diamond gold Earrings

By Bulgari

Located in Monte Carlo, MC

BVLGARI ‘Parentesi’ circa 1982 Pair of yellow gold ear clips set with diamonds of about 0.50 carat

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Vintage 1980s Italian Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

1982 Bulgari Parentesi diamond gold Earrings

H 0.87 in W 0.44 in

vintage lion door knocker earrings 1990s

Located in Wilmslow, GB

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1990s Clip-on Earrings

vintage lion door knocker earrings 1990s

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Art Smith Sterling Silver Abstract Modernist Earrings

By Art Smith

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Sterling silver modernist screw back earrings by Art Smith of New York, New York. Earrings

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Vintage 1950s American Modernist Clip-on Earrings

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Sterling Silver

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4.00 Carat Natural Untreated Cats Eye Clip Earrings 14 Karat Omega

Located in New York, NY

The Special. 4.00ct. Natural Untreated Cats-eye clip earrings. 7.24 & 7.10mm Very good eye

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2010s American Stud Earrings

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French Cat Earrings in Rose Gold

Located in Cohasset, MA

11 Karat Charming Rose Gold "French Cat" earrings with clip and post

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21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Lever-Back Earrings

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Seaman Schepps Multistone Earrings

By Seaman Schepps

Located in Darnestown, MD

several different sizes. Backs are clips and posts. The earrings are numbered 9996 with the Schepps

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Carnelian, Coral, Onyx, Turquoise, Cat’s Eye, 18k Gold

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Clear & Black Crystal Cat Earrings

Located in New York, NY

These earrings have a cat design with black crystal eyes surrounded by clear crystals in a gold

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Late 20th Century Clip-on Earrings

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1950s Clip-on Ear cuff Earring

Located in Milan, Italy

These lovely Ear cuff Earrings have Clip-on fasteners closure, an organic shape which seems a

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H 2 in W 0.75 in

Ciner Puma Earrings

By Ciner

Located in Litchfield County, CT

Large rhinestone Ciner puma/leopard head clip on earrings with a fun door knocker style. Circa late

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1990's Hermes Art Deco Inspired with Cat Motif Gold-Plated and Enamel Earrings

By Hermès

Located in London, Chelsea

Vintage Hermes Enamelled Clip-On Earrings. These fun and stylish earrings by Hermes date back from

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Cat Clip Earrings For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a broad range of cat clip earrings for sale on 1stDibs. All of the items for sale were constructed with extraordinary care, often using gold, 18k gold and 14k gold. Our collection of these items for sale includes 20 vintage editions and 4 modern creations to choose from as well. Our inventory has long been popular, and it includes earlier versions that date to the 19th Century and newer variations that were made as recently as the 21st Century. There are many different pieces in our collection of cat clip earrings to choose from, but modern and contemporary cat clip earrings are of considerable interest. Cartier, Christian Lacroix Paris and Eytan Brandes each produced beautiful examples of these items that are worth considering. While most can agree that any pick from our collection easily elevates most outfits, but the choice of diamond versions from the 7 available is guaranteed to add a special touch to your ensemble. A selection of round cut, baguette cut and bead can be found today on these pages. When shopping our range of cat clip earrings, you’ll find that there are less available pieces for men today than there are for women.

How Much are Cat Clip Earrings?

On average, cat clip earrings at 1stDibs sell for $2,623, while they’re typically $183 on the low end and $35,500 for the highest priced versions of this item.

Finding the Right earrings for You

In the United States, ear piercing didn’t really become popular until the 1950s and ‘60s, but our desire for a dazzling pair of vintage earrings has deeper roots than that. In fact, wearing earrings actually goes back thousands of years, and you can find many tangible connections between now and then in how we continue to talk about these treasured accessories.

Women wore ornamental earrings — studs and hoops at the very least — in Ancient Egypt, which is home to mines that are among the earliest sources of emeralds in the world. Emerald earrings are highly prized today, and their quality lies in their rich, saturated color. The highest-quality emeralds are green or bluish-green. Earrings worn by the affluent in early Roman civilizations were set with precious stones such as diamonds and pearls, and a clean-looking pop of pearl on the front of the lobe is as timeless as ever. Hoop earrings are imbued with symbolism and cultural significance for many, and on view in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Ancient Near Eastern Art Gallery is a pair of simple gold hoops from Mesopotamia dating to between 2600 and 2500 B.C.

Today, ear piercing is very popular all over the world, and, as a result, it is difficult to overstate how much everyone pines for a good pair of earrings — modernist drop earrings, glamorous Victorian hoops, geometrically complex chandelier earrings, you name it. Sure, jewelry trends and the fashion darlings of social media come and go, but earrings have a staying power that seems impenetrable: The still-strong love affair between British royals and Cartier earrings is more than a century old, glossy 1970s hoops from legacy houses such as Bulgari and Van Cleef & Arpels remain the statement makers they’ve always been and although people have been stacking earrings for many moons, the allure of an expertly mismatched stack of charms and studs still feels fresh and new.

While there is no shortage of modern earring designs to choose from, the classics, like coral earrings, Art Deco–style earrings and diamond drop earrings are still heavy hitters. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of antique, new and vintage earrings today.

Questions About Cat Clip Earrings

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 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.
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.
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.
How do you use vintage clip-on earrings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
How you use vintage clip-on earrings depends on what type of backing they have. Some simply feature a hinged clip that you open, slip over your ear and then press gently to close. Others may require you to turn a screw or shift a tension bar. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of vintage clip-on earrings.
Are clip-on earrings still a thing?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Yes, clip-on earrings are still a thing. Some makers continue to produce earrings with clip-on backs to suit the needs of those without pierced ears or who want jewelry that is easy to put on and take off. In addition, many people continue to wear antique and vintage clip-ons. On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of clip-on earrings.
Why are most vintage earrings clip-ons?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Most vintage earrings are clip-ons largely due to how beliefs about piercings have changed over the years. It was only during the 1980s and ’90s that many women began piercing their ears. Prior to that, many women didn't have piercings and could only wear clip-ons, so makers produced earrings to suit their customer base. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of vintage 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.

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