By Brook Helton
Published: June 14, 2025
When it comes to earrings, especially for everyday wear, the materials matter—a lot. If you’ve ever dealt with irritation, allergic reactions, or earrings that just don’t last, it might be time to learn what’s inside those posts and backs you wear every day.
At Cords Club, we believe in high-quality materials that look great and feel great on your ears. Here’s a quick guide to the most common metals used in earrings — what they are, why they matter, and what to watch out for.
1. Titanium
Titanium is a favorite among sensitive ears—it’s lightweight, super strong, and naturally hypoallergenic. It won’t tarnish or rust, so it stays looking fresh for a long time. If you’ve struggled with irritation before, titanium earrings might be your new best friend.
2. Surgical Steel
Surgical steel is a popular choice because it’s affordable, durable, and hypoallergenic for most people. It’s made to resist rust and corrosion, which means it’s a good pick if you want something low-maintenance and reliable. However, a tiny percentage of people with very sensitive skin might still react to it, so keep an eye on your ears if you try surgical steel.
3. 14k Gold
When you hear “gold” earrings, they’re often 14k (or higher). 14k gold is mixed with other metals to make it strong enough for everyday wear while still keeping that classic shine. It’s usually hypoallergenic, but the exact mix can vary, so be sure you’re buying from a trusted source. Gold doesn’t tarnish like some cheaper metals, so your earrings will keep glowing.
4. Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is beautiful and popular, but it’s prone to tarnishing, which means it can turn dark or greenish over time. If you love silver, just be ready to clean your earrings regularly to keep them looking their best. It’s also worth noting that some people have allergic reactions to silver alloys.
5. Nickel
Nickel is a cheap metal that’s often mixed into lower-quality earrings. It’s the most common cause of allergic reactions, causing redness, itching, and irritation. That’s why many brands, including Cords Club, avoid nickel or make sure it’s sealed safely away from skin.
Why Cords Club Chooses These Materials
Our goal is to make earrings you want to wear every day—comfortably, confidently, and without hassle.That’s why we carefully pick hypoallergenic metals like titanium and surgical stainless steel for our flat back studs and hoops. These materials help prevent irritation, resist tarnish, and keep your ears looking and feeling great no matter your lifestyle.
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