The wearing of earrings dates from ancient times and is mentioned in the biblical book of Genesis. Earrings made of arious materials, particularly gold and other precious metals were worn by almost all ancient people. These earrings were often decorated with gems.

The Egyptians excelled at fine filigree work on their golden earrings and also wore earrings set with gemstones. The earrings of the Greeks, whether gold or jeweled, as studs or pendants, were of dazzling workmanship. Roman earrings were simple in form and decorated with precious stones. Byzantine earrings were often long, jewelled pendants. Noblemen wore gold ear ornaments and earplugs, often incorporating turquoise.

Among many Asian people, earrings have beven worn by both men and women. In the Western world, as among the Greeks and Romans, the use of earrings has generally beven confined to women, until in recent years we see men also wearing earrings on either one or both ears. More elaborate pendant earrings of diamonds, other gems, or paste were fashionable in the late 18th century. ictorian earrings ranged from brilliant gems to cameos, and iory. Most of these were for pierced ears.

In the 20th century the deelopment of clip and screw fasteners has increased the popularity of earrings. At arious times gems in platinum settings, real or imitation pearls, and plastic earrings were popular. Pierced earrings returned to faor, with other ariations, in the 1960s.