She crushed one large pearl of a pair of earrings, dissolved it in the liquid ... once formed the foundation of a thriving button industry in the U.S. What is now the United States became famous ...

From hoops to studs to pearls, these are the best earrings that you'll want to keep in your jewelry box (and your ears!) ...

"I recommend them in earrings and necklaces, which receive less wear and tear, over rings and bracelets," Wegman said. "If you purchase a pearl ring, be sure to select a style that properly ...