Hoop earrings are one of the few accessories that never really go out of fashion. The trend just shifts between small, neat hoops and big, bold ones. The tricky part when shopping online is picturing the size. A number like “40mm” means little until you see it next to a face.
UK jeweller Philip Jones lists the exact size, hoop thickness and weight on every hoop earring, which makes it easy to compare. This guide explains how each size tends to look, compares seven pairs and covers sterling silver versus plated metal. Prices were checked on philipjonesjewellery.com on 4 November 2026 and may change.
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In this guide
Seven Hoops Compared
| Hoop | Size (as listed) | Thickness | Weight | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18k Gold Plated Hoops with Zircondia Crystals | 16.6 x 18mm huggie | 3mm | 3.2g | 10 (was 12) |
| Sterling Silver 20mm Hoops | 20.5 x 19.2mm | 2mm | 1.8g | 20 (was 24) |
| Sterling Silver Twist Hoops | 21.7 x 21mm | 2.5mm | 1.8g | 21 (was 26) |
| Sterling Silver 30mm Hoops | 30 x 30mm | 2mm | 3.34g | 23 (was 28) |
| Sterling Silver 40mm Hoops | 40 x 40mm | 2mm | 3.84g | 27 (was 33) |
| 18k Gold Plated 40mm Hoops | 40 x 40mm | 3mm | 5.0g | 9 (was 11) |
| Silver Plated 50mm Hoops | 50 x 50mm | 3mm | 7.08g | 9.50 (was 12) |
All details are taken from the product listings on the date checked. “Was” prices are the retailer’s own comparison prices. Weight is per the listing.
How to Read Hoop Sizes
Hoop sizes usually refer to the diameter of the ring. A 20mm hoop is roughly the width of a penny coin plus a little more, while a 50mm hoop is about the width of a credit card’s short side. Thickness matters too: a 2mm wire looks delicate, while 3mm reads as chunkier and more noticeable from a distance.
Weight affects comfort. On the listings above, the sterling silver hoops range from 1.8g to 3.84g, while the 50mm silver plated pair is 7.08g. If you have sensitive lobes or plan to wear hoops all day, lighter pairs are usually more comfortable.
Small Hoops: 16mm to 20mm
Small hoops sit close to the earlobe and are the most versatile size. They work for the office, the gym and evenings out, and they suit second piercings. The Sterling Silver 20mm Hoops use 2mm wire with a lever back closure and weigh 1.8g according to the listing.
For a little sparkle, the 18k Gold Plated Hoop Earrings with Zircondia crystals are a huggie style, meaning they hug the lobe closely. Each has 16 small crystals and a huggie closure.
Twist Hoops: Texture Without Size
If plain hoops feel too simple, a twisted design adds interest without needing to go bigger. The Sterling Silver Twist Hoop Earrings measure about 21mm across with 2.5mm thickness. The twist catches light from different angles, which makes a small hoop look a little more dressed up.
Medium Hoops: 30mm
Our featured image shows the 30mm hoop, often seen as the “everyday statement” size. It is visible enough to frame the face but not so large that it gets caught in scarves or hair. The Sterling Silver 30mm Hoops weigh 3.34g with 2mm wire and a lever back, per the listing, so they remain light.
Large Hoops: 40mm
At 40mm, hoops become a clear style statement, especially with hair tied back. Philip Jones lists two 40mm options: the Sterling Silver 40mm Hoops (2mm thick, 3.84g, 27 GBP) and the 18k Gold Plated 40mm Hoops (3mm thick, 5.0g, 9 GBP), which have a high polished finish on a brass alloy base.
Statement Hoops: 50mm
The Silver Plated 50mm Hoop Earrings are the largest pair in this comparison. With 3mm thickness and a high polished finish, they are designed to be noticed. They are best for occasions, festivals and nights out rather than all-day wear.
Lever Back or Huggie? Understanding Closures
Six of the seven pairs in our table use a lever back closure, according to the listings. A lever back has a small hinged arm that clicks into place behind the hoop, which helps keep the earring secure even with larger sizes. The crystal hoops instead use a huggie closure, where a short hinged section snaps shut inside the ring for a seamless look close to the lobe. If you tend to lose earrings, or you wear them while exercising or commuting, a secure closure is worth checking before you buy. Each pair also comes in a gift pouch, per the product pages.
Sterling Silver or Plated?
Sterling silver hoops are stamped 925, meaning 92.5% pure silver. Plated hoops have a thin layer of gold or silver over brass alloy. Plated pairs are much cheaper, which makes them good for trying a new size or trend. Sterling silver costs more but tends to be more durable for daily wear. Philip Jones describes all seven pairs here as hypoallergenic.
Matching Hoops to Face Shape and Style
- Round faces: medium to large hoops can add length, especially slightly oval shapes.
- Long or oval faces: most sizes work; small and medium hoops keep things balanced.
- Short hair or updos: large hoops stand out more without hair covering them.
- Busy outfits or statement necklaces: small hoops avoid competing for attention.
- Workwear: 20mm to 30mm is a safe, polished range.
Final Thoughts
If you only own one pair, a 20mm or 30mm sterling silver hoop will cover most occasions. Add a 40mm or 50mm plated pair for evenings, and a twist or huggie design for variety. All seven are available at Philip Jones Jewellery.
With prices from 9 GBP on the date checked, building a small hoop wardrobe at Philip Jones does not need to cost much.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and product details were taken from philipjonesjewellery.com on 4 November 2026 and may change.
