Earring Hooks & Earwires for Jewellery Making

What are earring hooks and earwires?

Earring hooks, also known as earwires, are jewellery findings that pass through the ear and provide a simple way to attach beads, charms, crystals and decorative drops. They are commonly used for making handmade dangle and drop earrings.

Are earwires and earring hooks the same thing?

Yes — the terms earwires and earring hooks are often used for the same type of earring finding. Styles can vary in shape, size, wire thickness, finish and decorative details such as coils, balls or loops.

What type of earring hooks should I use?

The best earring hooks depend on the style and finish of your design. Sterling silver is popular for quality handmade jewellery, surgical steel is a practical option for everyday designs, while silver plated and gold plated hooks provide affordable choices for fashion jewellery and craft projects.

What are sterling silver earring hooks?

Sterling silver earring hooks are earwires made from sterling silver and are commonly used for quality handmade earrings. They work well with sterling silver components, beads, charms and other sterling silver findings when you want a coordinated finish.

How do you attach beads or charms to earring hooks?

Most earring hooks have a small open loop at the bottom for attaching your design. Use jewellery pliers to gently open the loop sideways, add your bead drop, charm or connecting jump ring, then close the loop securely. Chain nose pliers are particularly useful for this job because their tapered flat jaws provide good control when opening and closing small loops. When working with jump rings, using two pairs of chain nose or flat nose pliers helps keep the ring aligned while opening and closing it.

What do I need to make earrings with earwires?

A basic earring project may include earwires, beads or charms, head pins or eye pins, jump rings and jewellery pliers. The exact components depend on your design. You can also browse our full range of earring findings for additional components such as earring backs and other earring making supplies.

How do I choose the right size earring hook?

Check the overall length, width and wire gauge shown on the product page. Smaller earwires can suit delicate designs, while larger hooks may work better with longer drops or statement earrings. Also check that any loops or connecting points are suitable for the components you plan to attach.

Can I use earring hooks with charms and beads?

Yes. Earring hooks are designed to work with many jewellery components, including beads, charms, crystals and decorative drops. Components can be attached directly to the hook loop or connected using eye pins, head pins or jump rings.