The practice of gifting birthstone jewelry, particularly earrings, to babies and young children is a cherished tradition. These small, sparkling adornments represent a personal connection to the month of a child’s birth and serve as a lasting keepsake. This article will explore the options available in birthstone earrings designed specifically for sensitive young ears, covering materials, styles, and safety considerations, based on current offerings and industry practices.
History and Lore
While the modern concept of dedicated birthstones evolved over the 20th century, the association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times. However, the sources provided do not detail the historical origins of specific birthstone attributions. Instead, they focus on the contemporary practice of selecting birthstones for children’s jewelry. The current popularity of birthstone earrings stems from their personalized nature and the desire to mark significant milestones like birthdays, baptisms, or christenings with a meaningful gift. The jewelry vine notes that birthstones are a “personal reminder of a girl’s special birthday.” This emphasis on personalization is a key driver in the market for these items.
Materials and Construction
A primary concern when selecting earrings for babies and young children is material safety and comfort. The sources consistently emphasize hypoallergenic properties and suitability for sensitive ears. Surgical grade stainless steel is frequently cited as a base material, often plated with 18K gold. This combination offers durability, aesthetic appeal, and minimizes the risk of allergic reactions. Sterling silver, available in silver, gold, or rose gold finishes, is another popular choice. 14K and 18K gold, both white and yellow, are also utilized, representing a higher price point and perceived luxury. Medical Implant Grade Titanium is also offered as a hypoallergenic option.
The use of gemstones themselves varies. Options include genuine gemstones, synthetic gemstones, and cubic zirconia (CZ) gems. The sources do not provide details on the geological origins or specific properties of these gemstones, but they do highlight the availability of all 12 birthstones in various colors. The choice between genuine, synthetic, and CZ stones often comes down to budget and preference.
Earring posts are typically designed with children in mind, featuring a thinner gauge (0.8mm or 20 gauge) and shortened length for a better, more comfortable fit. Backings are a crucial safety feature. Screw-backs are highly recommended for babies and toddlers, as they are more secure and less likely to be lost than traditional friction posts. Classic notched posts with open clasp backings are also available, though the sources note that open friction earring backs are more hygienic than covered backings, which can trap dead cell waste.
Ear Piercing Services and Safety
For parents considering ear piercing for their child, the sources emphasize the importance of sterile equipment and professional services. Baby Ear Piercing specifically details stringent safety protocols, including the use of individually packaged, single-use, sterile earrings. All items are lot numbered, certified sterile, and documented for quality control. The service provider highlights the importance of breaking the sterile packaging in front of the customer to demonstrate authenticity and safety. The sources also point out that earrings designed for baby ear piercing services are made with a minimum thickness of 20 Gauge.
Styles and Designs
The available styles of birthstone earrings for children are diverse. Stud earrings are the most common and practical choice for young children, offering a simple and classic look. These studs typically feature a 4mm stone. Variations include prong-set cubic zirconia, crystal gemstones, bezel crystal gem posts, and genuine birthstones. Hoop and huggie hoop styles are also available, though these may be more suitable for older children due to potential snagging hazards.
The sources also mention a “buy one get one 50% off” promotion, suggesting that purchasing matching earring styles for siblings or friends is a popular trend. This highlights the social aspect of gifting birthstone jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the cleanliness of children’s earrings is essential to prevent infection and irritation. The sources recommend using a gentle cleanser and warm water for cleaning. A soft toothbrush can be used to gently scrub the earrings, ensuring thorough removal of any debris. It is important to perform this cleaning in a bowl to prevent accidental loss of the earrings or backs down the drain. The sources also note that some earrings are waterproof and can be worn in the pool or bath.
Gemstone Options and Birthstone Chart
While the sources do not provide a comprehensive list of birthstones and their corresponding months, they indicate that earrings are available for all 12 months. A general overview of birthstones is as follows (based on commonly accepted associations, though not explicitly stated in the provided sources):
| Month | Birthstone |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Diamond |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Pearl/Moonstone/Alexandrite |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Opal/Tourmaline |
| November | Topaz/Citrine |
| December | Turquoise/Zircon/Tanzanite |
It is important to note that some months have multiple birthstones, offering a wider range of choices.
Purchasing Considerations
When purchasing birthstone earrings for a child, several factors should be considered. First and foremost is the child’s age and sensitivity. Screw-backs are generally the safest option for babies and toddlers. The material of the earrings should be hypoallergenic and appropriate for sensitive skin. The size and weight of the earrings should also be considered, ensuring they are comfortable for the child to wear. Finally, the reputation of the seller and the quality of the materials are important factors to evaluate.
Conclusion
Birthstone earrings represent a thoughtful and personalized gift for babies and children. The market offers a wide range of options, from affordable CZ studs to luxurious gold and gemstone designs. Prioritizing safety, comfort, and quality materials is paramount when selecting earrings for young ears. By understanding the available options and considering the child’s individual needs, parents can choose a beautiful and meaningful keepsake that will be cherished for years to come.