Ask the Experts Posts Q&A

I would like to take the long earwire off a dangling earring and replace it with a post or something other than the long wire. Can it be done?

- Leslie

Open the loop on the ear wire using a pair of chain-nose pliers and remove the dangle. Reserve the ear wire for another pair of earrings. 

Choose a post that is of the same metal type and that complements the dangle components. If the post has an open loop, add the dangle using chain-nose pliers. If the post has a closed loop, then the dangle loop must be opened. If neither post or dangle have loops that can be opened, add a suitable size jump ring to connect the two parts.

- Sandra Lupo, Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist and Instructor