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Snap-on ball earrings, or captive bead rings, can be tricky to get on and off without losing the small ball. This type of jewelry comes in various sizes and designs. Smaller pieces are easily manipulated with just your hands, but larger sizes require special tools for securing the ball in the earring. When properly worn, the ball should sit securely between the two sides of the hoop metal.

Small Earrings

Open the ring. Put on the plastic gloves if you wish. They will give you a better grip on the small ball. Gently pull the sides of the earring apart with your hands or pliers until the ball loosens and you can easily remove it. Place the ball in a container or on a flat and secure surface, making sure it doesn’t roll away.

Pull the earring through your ear and pinch the earring opening slightly to shorten the space between both sides.

Place the ball in the earring. Hold the ball in one hand and the ring in the other hand. Place one dimpled hole onto one end of the earring. Slide the ball’s other dimpled hole onto the other end of the earring. Tighten the earring manually with your fingers, or with the pliers if the earring is loose.

Large Earring

Open the ring. Put on plastic gloves if desired and then open the ring using the ring opening pliers, following the manufacturer’s instructions exactly. Hold one hand underneath the ring to catch the ball when it falls. Place the ball down in a secure spot where it will not roll away.

Pull the earring through your ear hole and turn the earring until the opening is facing downward.

Place the ball in the earring. Gently use the opening pliers to open the ring enough to fit the ball into the space created. Place one dimpled hole onto the end of the earring. Slide the ball’s other dimpled hole onto the other end of the earring. Slowly release pressure from the ring opening pliers. Check that the ball is securely in place.

Tip

Always wash your hands and any tools before inserting earrings.