Earrings Guide: Studs, Jhumkas, Chandbalis and Cuff Earrings Explained

Indian earrings come in more shapes than most guides admit. This guide explains the four you will meet most often, studs, jhumkas, chandbalis and cuff earrings, and which occasion and outfit each one suits.

What are the main types of earrings?

Studs sit flat on the lobe, drops and danglers hang below it, jhumkas are bell-shaped, chandbalis are crescent-shaped with a moon-like top, and cuff earrings wrap around the outer edge of the ear. Browse all earrings or the jhumka earrings.

What is a jhumka?

A jhumka is a dome or bell-shaped earring, often with small beads or stones hanging from its rim. It suits sarees, lehengas and kurtas. Our jhumka styles guide covers sizes and occasions, and kundan jhumka is the most popular style.

What is a chandbali?

A chandbali has a crescent-shaped base, with pearls or stones hanging from it, and often a small stud on top. It is a bridal and festive style that looks best with hair pulled back. It is a statement earring, so keep the necklace simple.

What are cuff earrings and who are they for?

Cuff earrings sit along the outer curve of the ear, and some clip on, so they suit people without a second or third piercing. They work with Indo-western outfits and with sarees when you want something modern. We list a few cuff-style pieces in the earrings collection, and you can ask about others on WhatsApp.

How do I choose earrings for my face shape?

Longer drops balance a round face, rounder shapes soften an angular one, and most styles suit an oval face. The face-shape guide goes through each shape.

Is it earrings or earings?

The standard spelling is earrings. Earings is a common misspelling, and people searching for either are looking for the same ear jewellery. Kundan is a popular style, and you can browse kundan earrings here.

Which earrings are best for everyday wear?

Studs are the easiest choice for work, college and errands because they sit close to the ear and go with almost any outfit. Start with studs and tops, or look at stud earrings under 500 if you want a few pairs to rotate. For a bit more movement, a small drop from the drop and dangle earrings collection still stays comfortable through a long day. Keep one neutral pair in your bag for days when the outfit changes.

Which earrings suit a wedding or festive outfit?

Jhumkas and chandbalis are the usual choices because they carry the look of a lehenga, saree or heavy kurta. If you wear a maang tikka, buy it together with the earrings: the earrings with maang tikka collection lists matching pairs. Heavy earrings can pull on the ear, so read how to wear heavy earrings without pain before a long function. For a softer festive look, pearl earrings sit well with pastel outfits.

How do I match earrings with a necklace?

Let one piece lead. If the earrings are large, keep the necklace slim or choose a short chain, and if the necklace is a full set, pick smaller earrings in the same metal colour. Our guide on matching earrings with a necklace shows more pairings, and necklace sets already come with earrings that match.

In short: studs for everyday, jhumkas and chandbalis for festive and bridal looks, and cuffs for a modern look. We ship free across India. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp at +91 98705 89560.

Related: browse pearl earrings and pearl choker sets.

Also see push back, screw back and hook closures explained and how to read jewellery measurements on a product page.