Jhumka, chandbali, studs and more: Indian earring types
3 min read · Updated 9 October 2026
Seven common styles, what they look like and what they suit.
Jhumka
A jhumka is a bell or dome-shaped drop, often with small beads hanging from the rim. It is the most familiar Indian earring and suits everything from cotton kurtas to silk sarees. Sizes range from tiny to very large; larger pairs can be heavy.
Chandbali
Chandbali means moon earring: a crescent shape, usually with a row of pearls or beads along the lower edge. They are wide rather than long, frame the face well and are a popular choice with lehengas and festive sarees.
Studs and tops
Studs sit on the earlobe without hanging. Small ones suit daily and office wear; larger flower or stone studs work for functions when you are wearing a heavy necklace and want the ears to stay simple.
Danglers, hoops and ear chains
Danglers are long, slim drops that suit high necks and open hairstyles. Balis are hoops, from fine daily-wear rings to wide festive ones. Heavy earrings sometimes come with a chain that hooks into the hair to take the weight off the earlobe.
Choosing by comfort
If you will wear earrings for many hours, weight matters more than design. Check the weight, prefer a secure screw or push back for dancing, and consider ear chains or support patches for the heaviest pairs.
Quick answers
- What is the difference between a jhumka and a chandbali?
- A jhumka is a bell or dome-shaped drop. A chandbali is a crescent, or moon shape, that is wide rather than long.
- How can I wear heavy earrings comfortably?
- Check the weight before buying, choose a secure back, and use an ear chain that hooks into the hair or a support patch to take weight off the earlobe.
More guides
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- Matching jewellery to your necklineWhich necklace and earrings suit round, V, boat and high necks.
- How to find your bangle sizeWhat sizes like 2.4 and 2.6 mean, and two ways to measure at home.
- Juttis, kolhapuris or heels: footwear for ethnic wearWhat to wear on your feet with kurtas, sarees and lehengas, and how to stay comfortable.
- How to choose a chaniya choli for garbaFabric, flare, weight and length: what makes a chaniya choli comfortable to dance in.
