From an IT and Telecoms background Sean Wheller is both an avid writer and passionate property investor. Amongst the many websites he founded is the first Property Investor Community based site in South Africa PropertyInvestorNetwork.co.za. On the IT front his passions include open source software and community. He chiefly supports Joomla and the future of self managed content websites. Through his web development company [TheWebDesignCompany.co.za], he helps small and medium size companies take control of their website content while significantly reducing costs of development. To learn more about Seans’ interests and businesses you can go to www.SeanWheller.co.za.

Earrings are the most flattering of jewellery styles. Sparkling gems and precious metals brighten the face and dangling earrings visually elongate the neck.

Even the most basic gold hoops or diamond studs dress up a casual outfit and create a smart, pulled together look. There are many earrings that will flatter your look and showcase your personal style and personality. In fact, there are so many earring designs that shopping for the right pair can be mind-boggling. This earring buying guide is designed to help you sort through the options with confidence.

Just like cosmetics and apparel, certain jewellery shapes and colors suit some face shapes and skin tones more than others. However, by considering your own face shape when you search for earrings, you'll find earrings that look great on you.

Just remember that earring shapes should balance the face instead of matching it. Round hoops soften rectangular faces, but angular earrings emphasize sharp features. Follow these hints for individual features:

• Oval face:
  Lucky you! If you have an oval face shape, you can wear almost any earring style. Hoops and triangles are especially flattering. However, triangles will emphasize a pointy chin.
• Round face:
  Choose longer earrings with oblong or straight styles. Earrings with sharp angles balance the curves of the face. Avoid round and chunky earrings that sit on the ear lobe. For pretty gemstone earrings, consider the long chains with dangling gems.
• Square face:
  hoops, ovals and small earrings look best. Avoid wearing short and chunky earrings; they make the face appear wider.
• Large/small/full:
  Earring size is relevant to the size and shape of each individual's face. Chunky earrings that are fabulous on a tall woman may overwhelm a petite woman's features. Round and button styles add curves to a full face; and 3-inch chains or spikes drag down a long, skinny face. Again, balance is the key to a good fit.
• Skin color:
  White gold earrings are popular right now, but yellow gold is still a classic style. Most people prefer one over the other, and many can wear both yellow and white metals. In general, white metals enhance cool skin tones and yellow metals enhance warm skin tones.