The design codes behind Chanel earrings
Almost every pair draws on a small set of motifs that Gabrielle Chanel made her own. Recognising them helps you pick a style that matches the recipient.
- The interlocking CC: the most recognisable option, often as a simple stud or set with crystals or pearls. Clear branding without much bulk.
- Pearls: Chanel championed mixing real and faux pearls, and pearl studs or drops remain a house signature. They are an easy choice for someone with a classic, polished wardrobe.
- The camellia: Gabrielle Chanel's favourite flower, rendered in metal, resin or enamel. Softer and more romantic than the logo.
- Quilting: the matelassé stitch from the bags reappears in jewellery, most notably in the Coco Crush fine jewellery line in gold.
If the recipient already loves the house, our guide to Chanel covers its history and wider collections.
Costume or fine jewellery: choosing and budgeting for Chanel earrings
Chanel makes two very different kinds of earrings, and this distinction drives the price more than anything else.
Costume jewellery is made from metal with glass pearls, resin, enamel and crystals. It changes with each season, is often bold, and is designed as a fashion statement. Even so, prices typically run into five figures in rand.
Fine jewellery uses solid gold, diamonds and cultured pearls. Pieces such as Coco Crush or the Camélia designs sit in a considerably higher bracket. They are made to be kept and passed on.
When choosing, think about:
- How she wears jewellery. Small studs suit daily wear and the office; drops and hoops suit evenings and occasions.
- Sensitive ears. Costume pieces use mixed metals, so gold may be the better choice for anyone who reacts to non-precious posts.
- Closure type. Many costume designs are clip-ons, which matters if she does or does not have pierced ears.
To compare across houses, browse our wider earrings guide.
Why Chanel earrings make a considered gift, and how to care for them
Earrings need no sizing, which makes them one of the safest luxury gifts to buy for someone else. A pair of pearl or CC studs suits a milestone birthday, a graduation or Women's Day on 9 August, while a gold Coco Crush pair carries the weight of an anniversary gift. For more ideas, see our edit of gifts for her.
Care depends on the material:
- Put earrings on after perfume, hairspray and sunscreen, which dull plating and pearls.
- Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing; avoid water and cleaning products on costume pieces.
- Store each pair separately in its pouch so crystals and plating are not scratched.
- Keep them out of humid spots, especially on the coast.
If you have a particular pair in mind, tell us what you are looking for and we will come back with options.