FRICTION POSTS/ FRICTION BACKS
These are the most common and cost-effective type of earring backs. A majority of earrings come with a friction back, they are also known as push backs or butterfly backs. They are very comfortable and will accommodate a stud or dangle earring with a post. Friction backs have little metal engravings on the inside that curve up and use tension to grip the earring post. The post usually has a notch at the end to catch the backing from falling off if it slips down. Quality earrings will often have two notches for extra protection. An important factor to pay attention to when looking for quality earring backs is the weight. Heavy friction backs are more secure and will take more time to wear out than flimsy, light earring backings.
Pros: These earring backs are very convenient to use, all that needs to be done is simply slide the earring back onto the earring post until it comfortably touches your earlobe.
Cons: After years of repeated use, these earring backs lose their tension and can slip off with more ease than brand new backs.
SCREW BACKS
As the name implies, screw backs refer to an earring back that needs to be screwed rather than pushed onto the backing. The earring post is threaded enabling the backing to be rotated until it is fully screwed onto the earring.
Taking the earrings off, you must fully unscrew the back from the earring post. You can not simply pull these earring backs off the post.
Pros: Can be very secure option of earring backs if you’re mindful and check to make sure the screw is always properly tightened.
Cons: Screw backs can give people a false sense of security, leaving them to go days or weeks without checking if their earring back is tightly screwed on. Screw backs will not work for earrings without a threaded post and their posts can wear out over time. They can also require steady hands and concentration to take off, which is why we don’t recommend them to every customer. Another con of screw backs is that they require more cleaning because there are so many grooves on both the post and the earring back. For tips on keeping your screw backs and stud earrings clean, click here.
LA POUSETTE EARRING BACKS
The most intricate and expensive of earring backs are La Pousette backs. To put them on you push down on the tabs on both sides, which contracts the connectors inside of the earring back and allows them to be slid onto the earring post. Releasing the tab tightens the connectors and secures the earring backs onto the earring. There is a safety notch at the end that will catch the La Pousette earring backs if they slide down the post.
Pros: You get the best of both worlds, these earring backs have the security of screw backs with similar convenience as friction backs.
Cons: These earring backs are usually the most expensive option.
MONSTER EARRING BACKS
Monster backs are a version of a friction back, the only difference is they have a big circular post to help earrings stand up straight. Monster backs are ideal for a pair of heavy earrings that tend to droop downward. Monster backs are also a great option for people with a torn or stretched out ear piercing because the wide base helps the earrings stand up straight.
Pros: Monster earring backs help to solve the problem of drooping earrings. These backs are also beneficial for individuals who cannot handle and grasp the standard friction back. We love monster backs and recommend them with most earrings.
Cons: Just like friction backs, it’s important to purchase quality monster backs that are heavier and won’t lose friction quickly.
Now that you’ve learned a little more about each type of earring back, hopefully you have a good idea of what will work best for you and your pair of stud earrings. With that being said, its always a good idea to be mindful of the quality of the earrings and earring backs. For example, high quality pushbacks with double notches on the post are most likely a safer option than a poorly made screw back or La Pousette. If you feel unsure about the quality of your earring backs or that they have become worn out, its always a good idea to visit your trusted jeweler. To shop our collection of reccomended replacement and sturdy earring backs for quality earrings, click here. You stop into Les Olson Jewelers or give us a call at 727-785-9624.