The Statement Earrings You Can’t Live Without
11 glamorous diamond earrings that will transform your look.
Photography by Joshua Pestka
As the return to in-person events coincides with a still digitally connected world, diamond statement earrings remain the ultimate power piece. Whether you’re stepping out for a gala or dialing in for a high-stakes video call, bold earrings illuminate the face with sparkle and elegance—offering an instant, effortless dose of glamour that transcends any setting.
A staple on the red carpet for decades, this season the statement earring has become a truly must-have everyday accessory. “It is important to play with fashion—and we could all use a little fun right now—, so people are pulling out earrings they only wore to galas in the past, and they are seeing how they can reinvent them with more casual looks,” explains Law Roach, the stylist who celebrities like Zendaya and Kerry Washington turn to for fashion advice.
“A flawless pair of earrings can elevate any look – even everyday T-shirts and jeans.” The newest “wow” diamond earrings are surprisingly lightweight and flexible, and they are comfortable enough to wear all day long—yes, even on never-ending Zoom meetings.
Meet the Experts
Lorraine Schwartz is a world-renowned jewelry designer whose dazzling creations have graced red carpets, royal events, and the most influential women in the world.
Law Roach is an Emmy Award–winning celebrity stylist known for his visionary approach to fashion and iconic jewelry moments on stars like Zendaya and Celine Dion.
A flawless pair of earrings can elevate any look – even everyday T-shirts and jeans.
Jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz is famous for her oversized diamond jewels, which are favorites of celebrities like Beyoncé and Blake Lively, and she knows which pairs are the most attention-grabbing and stylish.
“Earrings should make a woman feel sexy and glamorous,” says Schwartz, who is a third-generation diamond expert. “I design earrings that are cool, have an edge and move with the body.” Among her striking signature styles are large-scale diamond mesh statement earrings that are as soft and supple as fabric, and three-tier hoops with removable pear or emerald-cut diamonds; and one pair’s more fashionable and empowering than the next.
“These earrings are for an independent woman, who would just as easily wear them with a t-shirt as an evening gown… because it is about the woman and her sense of confidence, not the jewels.” Of course, it’s also about balance. Despite the scale of Schwartz’s glamorous statement earrings, she says she often uses softer rose-cut diamonds and minimal metal settings, so that you see just a hint of sparkle and the jewels don’t overpower.
Schwartz coined the phrase ‘The Nudes’ to define her range of Champagne and neutral-colored diamond jewels, which offer a softer appearance than white diamonds. She says her clients, including Kim Kardashian, are big fans of the Nude diamonds. “Sometimes white diamonds are too bright with an all-black look or a bronze-colored dress, and fancy colored diamonds can tone it down.”
But these bold looks aren’t just for high-profile celebrities. They suit women of all ages, from the younger set who want to rock a chandelier style to sophisticated women who want to uplift their everyday style.
Project Curator of Jewellery at Victoria and Albert Museum, Rachel Garrahan, knows better than anyone, “A good earring can transform any look and never more so than in the age of Zoom when the world sees you in a tiny box on screen.”
There are no limits to what a great diamond earring can do for your image.
Shop Natural Diamond Statement Earrings
KATKIM Aurelia Earring, $8,400, katkimfinejewelry.com.
Ondyn Grand Illumine Earring, $19,950, ondyn.com.
Renna Wave Study I Earrings, $78,000, rennajewels.com.
Sylva & Cie Diamond Double Drop Earrings, $62,000, greenwichjewelers.com.
Serpentine Jewels Chrysler Front to Back Hoops with Baguette Diamonds, $17,000, serpentinejewels.com.
Mateo 14kt La Barre Fringe Earrings, $6,850, mateonewyork.com.
Mindi Mond Exclusive Fibonacci Marquise Ear Pendants, $30,800, mindimondny.com.
Anita Ko Pavé Diamond Zipper Drop Earrings, $9,350, materialgood.com.
Sorellina Bezel Crescent Earrings, $11,000, sorellinanyc.com.
FAQ: Statement Earrings
What exactly are diamond statement earrings?
Think of diamond statement earrings as your power piece. They’re bold, they sparkle from across the room or across a Zoom screen, and they instantly elevate whatever you’re wearing. Whether it’s a cascade of diamonds or a sculptural silhouette, the goal is to make an impact.
Are they just for black-tie occasions?
Not anymore. The beauty of today’s fine jewelry is its versatility. A great pair of statement earrings works just as well with a silk blouse and jeans as it does with eveningwear. Diamonds don’t need a dress code.
Will they be too heavy on my ears?
Designers today are incredibly thoughtful about comfort. Many styles are engineered to feel surprisingly light thanks to openwork gold, balanced backs, and smart construction. If you’re concerned, choose earrings that sit close to the lobe or offer movement without too much weight.
How should I style them?
Let them take the lead. Pull your hair back, skip the necklace, and let the earrings frame your face with sparkle. Statement earrings do all the talking, so you don’t need much else.
Can diamond statement earrings be an investment piece?
Absolutely. A beautifully crafted pair set with natural diamonds will never go out of style. Look for timeless elements like clean lines, exceptional stones, and impeccable craftsmanship. These are the pieces you’ll wear for years to come.
How do I keep them looking brilliant?
It’s simple. Store them separately to avoid scratches and give them a gentle cleaning with warm water and mild soap. For intricate designs, a professional cleaning once a year will keep them sparkling.
Can I wear them with other diamond jewelry?
Yes, but be selective. If your earrings are the focal point, keep other pieces understated. A delicate bracelet or single diamond ring adds just the right touch without competing for attention.
