The common fittings on imitation earrings are push-backs (butterfly backs), screw-backs, French or fish hooks, lever-backs, hinged hoop closures and clip-ons. The part that passes through the ear is what decides whether an earring is hypoallergenic, because it stays in contact with broken skin.
The usual skin-friendly choices are surgical stainless steel, titanium, niobium, sterling silver and nickel-free plated posts. Many Rajkot makers can fit stainless steel or titanium posts to a brass earring if you ask.
Types of back and hook
- Push-back (butterfly): a small clutch that slides onto the post. Cheap and common, but easy to lose.
- Screw-back: the back screws onto a threaded post. More secure, used on heavier or higher-value studs.
- Silicone or rubber backs: added for grip, often alongside a metal clutch.
- French hook (fish hook): an open wire hook for drops. Add rubber stoppers so it does not slip out.
- Lever-back: a hook that closes with a hinged lever. Secure and popular in Western markets.
- Clip-on: no piercing needed. Useful for a small share of customers and for children's ranges.
Nickel rules for posts
The EU limits nickel release under REACH. Parts inserted into pierced ears may release no more than 0.2 µg/cm² per week, while parts in prolonged contact with skin may release no more than 0.5 µg/cm² per week. The UK applies the same limits. Many US retailers ask for similar nickel performance even though there is no federal limit for adult jewellery.
A brass post with only gold plating can fail this test once the plating wears. That is why the post material, or a proper nickel-free barrier layer under the plating, matters more than the look of the earring.
What "hypoallergenic" should mean on your listing
There is no single legal definition of hypoallergenic for jewellery. Use the word only when the post or hook is made from a skin-friendly metal and a lab test supports it, and name the material, for example "surgical steel posts". Vague claims lead to complaints and can trouble you with marketplaces.
What this means for a buyer
Specify the post or hook material separately from the body of the earring, and test it. Creston & Co works for buyers only and has samples tested for nickel release at NABL-accredited labs before production. Ask for a free sourcing review.