Unique Hoop Earrings: Find Your Perfect Pair

If you think a hoop is just a simple gold or silver circle, it’s time to look again. The world of contemporary jewelry has completely transformed this classic staple into something far more expressive and artistic. Designers are playing with twisted textures, geometric shapes, mixed metals, and vibrant gemstones, proving that even the most fundamental silhouette can be a canvas for incredible creativity. This guide will show you the artistry behind modern unique hoop earrings, helping you discover a world of options beyond the basics and find a pair that truly captures your individual style and personality.

Key Takeaways

• Look Beyond the Classic Circle: Your perfect hoops are defined by the details. Express your personal style by exploring unique textures, modern geometric shapes, and gemstone embellishments that turn a simple accessory into a signature piece.
• Invest in Quality Craftsmanship: For earrings you'll wear for years, focus on high-quality materials like solid gold or sterling silver. Pay attention to details like secure closures and a smooth finish, which ensure your hoops are both durable and comfortable.
• Curate a Collection for Any Occasion: Build a versatile hoop wardrobe by starting with three key styles: everyday huggies, a classic medium pair, and a bold statement design. This allows you to mix, match, and layer your earrings to create a polished look for any part of your life.

What Makes a Hoop Earring Unique?

The hoop earring is a timeless classic, a piece of jewelry so fundamental it feels like it’s always been there. But what keeps it fresh and exciting is how designers constantly reinvent it. A hoop is no longer just a simple circle of metal. Today’s most interesting hoops are all about the details—the subtle twists, unexpected materials, and playful proportions that turn a staple into a statement. When you’re looking for a pair that truly feels like you, it’s these unique characteristics that make all the difference.

The secret to finding your perfect pair lies in understanding the three key elements that set a hoop apart: its design, its material, and its size and shape. By exploring the incredible variety within each of these categories, you can move beyond the basic and discover a pair of earrings that tells your story. Let’s get into what makes a modern hoop truly special.

Explore Standout Design Elements

Forget the idea of a one-size-fits-all hoop. The beauty of contemporary design is in the details. You can find hoops with a delicate, twisted texture that catches the light just so, or bold, double-hoop styles that create a layered look with a single piercing. Some designers add knife-edge details for a sharp, modern feel, while others play with organic, hand-hammered finishes for a more rustic vibe. Even the closure can be a design element, from seamless infinity loops to secure latch backs. Exploring the work of different designers reveals a world of creative interpretations, proving that even the simplest silhouette can be a canvas for artistry.

Discover Statement-Making Materials

The material of a hoop earring completely defines its character. A classic 14k yellow gold hoop offers a warm, timeless glow, while sterling silver provides a cool, contemporary edge. But modern jewelry makers don't stop there. You’ll find hoops crafted from rose gold for a romantic touch or even mixed-metal designs that combine different tones for a dynamic look. And let's not forget the sparkle. The addition of pavé-set diamonds along the curve of a hoop adds instant glamour, while bezel-set gemstones can introduce a pop of color. These high-quality materials ensure your hoops aren't just beautiful but are also lasting pieces you’ll treasure for years.

Play with Size and Shape

Size and proportion are everything when it comes to finding a hoop that complements your style. The options are endless, from tiny, delicate huggies that sit snugly against your earlobe to bold, oversized hoops that make a confident statement. A medium-sized hoop is a versatile choice for everyday wear, while a larger pair can instantly dress up an outfit for a night out. Designers are also experimenting with shape, moving beyond the perfect circle to create elegant oval, squared-off, or geometric hoops. This variety allows you to curate your own look, whether you prefer a single, standout pair or love to stack multiple sizes for a personalized ear party.

Find Your Signature Hoop Style

The classic hoop is a jewelry staple for a reason, but the world of hoops is so much bigger than a simple gold or silver circle. Finding your signature style is all about exploring the details that make a pair feel uniquely you. Think of it as a way to express your personality, whether you’re drawn to subtle textures that catch the light or bold, colorful gemstones that make a statement. Your perfect hoop might be a tiny, comfortable huggie you never take off or an architectural, geometric pair you save for special occasions. It's less about following a fleeting trend and more about discovering what truly resonates with your personal aesthetic and can be worn for years to come.

The beauty of modern jewelry is that there are no rules. You can mix metals, play with asymmetrical designs, and customize your look with charms. This is your chance to find the hoops that don’t just complete your outfit but also tell a little piece of your story. Whether you're building a foundational jewelry wardrobe from scratch or looking for that one standout piece to add to your collection, there's a hoop style that fits. Let’s walk through some of the most distinctive styles to help you identify the pair you’ll want to reach for every single day.

Twisted and Textured Hoops

If you love classic styles but want something with a little extra character, twisted and textured hoops are a perfect choice. Details like a hammered finish, delicate beading, or a rope-like twist add depth and dimension to a traditional silhouette. These textures catch the light in a beautiful, subtle way, giving the earrings a dynamic quality that a smooth, polished hoop doesn't have. This style often highlights the artisan's touch, giving each piece a handcrafted feel that feels both timeless and personal. It’s an understated way to add a bit of visual interest to your everyday look.

Gemstone-Adorned Hoops

For those who love a pop of color or a bit of sparkle, gemstone-adorned hoops are the way to go. This style can range from a single, delicate diamond to a full band of vibrant sapphires, emeralds, or opals. Adding gemstones is a fantastic way to personalize your hoops, whether you choose your birthstone, a favorite color, or a stone with special meaning. They can transform a simple hoop into a true statement piece. Our full jewelry collection features a wide range of gemstone hoops perfect for adding that extra bit of personality to your collection.

Modern Huggies

Huggies are small hoops designed to fit snugly around your earlobe, and they have become an absolute essential. Their minimalist design and comfortable fit make them ideal for all-day wear—you can even sleep in them. Huggies are perfect for a first piercing if you prefer a subtle look, but they truly shine as part of an "ear stack." They are the perfect foundation piece for layering with other studs, hoops, and dangles in second or third piercings. Chic, effortless, and endlessly versatile, a great pair of huggies is a must-have in any jewelry box.

Mixed-Metal Designs

Gone are the days of sticking to just one metal. Mixed-metal hoops combine different tones like yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and even oxidized silver for a modern and dynamic look. This style is not only visually interesting but also incredibly practical, as it allows you to pair your earrings with any other jewelry you own. Many of our favorite designers masterfully blend metals to create pieces that are both contemporary and timeless. Choosing a mixed-metal design means you never have to worry about your jewelry clashing again.

Geometric and Asymmetrical Shapes

If you see jewelry as wearable art, you’ll be drawn to hoops that break the mold of the perfect circle. Think outside the box with shapes like hexagons, squares, ovals, or even more abstract, organic forms. These architectural styles make a bold statement and are instant conversation starters. Asymmetrical pairs—where each earring is slightly different—add another layer of intrigue and individuality. These pieces are for the person who isn’t afraid to stand out and wants their accessories to reflect their creative and confident spirit.

Hoops with Charms

For the ultimate in personalization, look no further than hoops with charms. This versatile style allows you to curate your own look by adding, removing, or swapping out different charms to suit your mood or outfit. You can start with a simple pair of hoops and build a collection of charms over time, from meaningful symbols and initials to tiny gemstones. It’s a playful and evolving style that lets you tell your own story through your jewelry. Charm hoops are like a modern charm bracelet for your ears, offering endless possibilities for self-expression.

Why Quality Materials Matter

When you’re searching for a pair of hoops you’ll love and wear for years, the materials are everything. They determine not only how the earrings look and feel, but also how they’ll hold up over time. High-quality materials mean your jewelry is more durable, less likely to cause skin irritation, and retains its value. Think of it as the foundation of your piece. Investing in well-crafted hoops made from precious metals and genuine gemstones ensures you’re getting more than just an accessory; you’re acquiring a piece of wearable art that can last a lifetime. It’s the difference between a fleeting trend and a timeless staple in your collection.

Choose Your Metal

The metal is the framework of your hoop, so it’s important to choose one that suits your style and skin. For fine jewelry, solid gold is a classic choice, available in warm yellow, cool white, and romantic rose tones. We typically see it in 14k or 18k, which offer a great balance of pure gold content and strength for everyday wear. Platinum is another fantastic option, prized for its durability and naturally white sheen that won’t fade. For a more accessible price point, sterling silver offers a bright, beautiful finish. These precious metals are hypoallergenic for most people and provide the longevity your favorite jewelry deserves.

Add Sparkle with Gemstones

Gemstones can instantly transform a simple hoop into a statement piece. While diamonds are the timeless choice for adding brilliant sparkle, there’s a whole world of color to explore. Imagine a hoop lined with deep blue sapphires, vibrant green emeralds, or the iridescent flash of opals. The key is to look for high-quality stones that are securely set into the metal. A well-placed gemstone not only adds personality and flair but also reflects the artistry of the piece. Exploring different designer collections is a great way to see how artisans use unique gems to create truly special hoops.

What Determines the Price?

The price of a pair of fine jewelry hoops reflects the quality of the materials and the skill involved in making them. The primary factors are the type and amount of precious metal used—for example, 18k gold is more valuable than 14k gold. If the hoops feature gemstones, their price is influenced by the stone’s type, size, and quality (think cut, color, and clarity). Finally, craftsmanship plays a huge role. An intricate, handmade design from a skilled artisan will naturally be valued higher than a mass-produced piece. You’re not just paying for the materials; you’re investing in the design and the artist’s expertise.

How to Spot Quality Craftsmanship

When you hold a pair of hoops, the small details tell you everything about their quality. First, check the closures. They should feel secure and click into place easily, so you don’t have to worry about losing an earring. Run your fingers along the surface; it should be smooth and perfectly polished, with no rough spots or sharp edges. If there are gemstones, they should be set evenly and feel snug in their settings. These are the hallmarks of a piece made with care and precision. To truly appreciate these details, it helps to see the jewelry in person, where you can feel the weight and see the finish up close.

How to Choose Your Perfect Pair

Finding the right pair of hoop earrings is a lot like finding the perfect pair of jeans—it’s deeply personal, and when you get it right, it just clicks. The perfect hoops become an extension of you, a go-to accessory you reach for without a second thought. But with so many options, where do you even begin? The key is to balance your personal taste with practical considerations like size and comfort. Think about what you want your jewelry to say about you and how you want it to fit into your life.

Are you looking for a subtle, everyday piece or a bold statement for special occasions? Do you need something lightweight you can wear from your morning coffee run to a late dinner? Answering these questions will help you narrow down the choices and find a pair that not only looks incredible but feels like it was made just for you. It’s not about following trends; it’s about discovering a piece of jewelry that brings you joy and confidence every time you put it on. Let’s walk through how to find the hoops you’ll love and wear for years to come.

Match Hoops to Your Personal Style

Your jewelry is a form of self-expression, and your hoops should reflect your unique personality. Start by looking at your closet and your current jewelry collection. Are you drawn to clean lines and classic pieces, or do you prefer something more eclectic and bold? If your style is minimalist, a pair of sleek, polished gold or silver hoops might be your perfect match. If you love to make a statement, consider hoops with interesting textures, mixed metals, or gemstone embellishments. The goal is to find jewelry that complements your look and feels authentically you. Don’t be afraid to choose something that stands out—after all, your accessories are meant to show the world who you are.

Find the Right Size for You

Hoop size can completely change the vibe of your look, so it’s important to find what works for you. Hoops generally come in a range of sizes, from tiny huggies that sit snugly on the lobe to large, dramatic hoops that graze your shoulders. Small to medium hoops are incredibly versatile and perfect for daily wear, easily transitioning from the office to happy hour. Larger hoops tend to feel more glamorous and are great for evenings out or when you want to add a little extra flair to a simple outfit. Consider your comfort level and lifestyle when making your choice. If you’re new to hoops, a small or medium pair is a great place to start.

Prioritize Comfort for All-Day Wear

A stunning pair of earrings isn't worth much if you can't wait to take them off. Comfort is crucial, especially for a piece you plan to wear regularly. The weight of the earring is a major factor—heavy hoops can pull on your earlobes and become uncomfortable over time. Hollow hoops offer a bold look without the extra weight. Also, pay attention to the closure type. Secure clasps like latch-backs or click-tops ensure your hoops stay put. For ultimate comfort, consider huggie-style earrings, which are small, lightweight, and fit closely to the ear, making them ideal for all-day, everyday wear.

Think of Your Hoops as an Investment

When you choose a pair of hoops crafted from high-quality materials, you’re not just buying an accessory—you’re investing in a timeless piece you’ll treasure for years. Well-made jewelry holds its beauty and can even become a future heirloom. Opting for solid gold, sterling silver, or platinum ensures durability and longevity. These classic materials are getting fresh, modern updates from today's top designers, blending timeless appeal with contemporary style. By choosing quality craftsmanship, you’re selecting a piece that will endure beyond fleeting trends, much like the beautiful pieces in a Vintage & Estate collection. It’s a sustainable approach to building a jewelry wardrobe that truly lasts.

How to Style Hoops for Any Occasion

One of the best things about hoop earrings is their incredible versatility. A single pair can take you from a morning meeting to a dinner date with just a few simple styling tweaks. Whether you’re building a capsule jewelry collection or just looking for new ways to wear your favorite pieces, hoops are a foundational style that works for every part of your life. The key is knowing how to adapt them to the setting. Let’s explore how you can style your hoops for any occasion, making sure you always feel confident and put-together.

For the Office

When you’re at work, you want your jewelry to look polished and professional without being distracting. This is where classic, understated hoops shine. Think of them as the perfect finishing touch to a tailored blazer or a simple silk blouse. Choose comfortable but stylish pieces like small-to-medium gold hoops or elegant huggies that sit close to the earlobe. These styles add a hint of sophistication that complements your workwear. You can even find unique jewelry with subtle textures or mixed metals to show a bit of personality while keeping your look refined and office-appropriate.

For Casual Weekends

Weekends are all about relaxed, effortless style, and your hoops should follow suit. A great pair of earrings can instantly dress up a simple t-shirt and your favorite jeans. This is the perfect time to play with slightly more expressive designs. Consider a pair of twisted gold hoops for a touch of texture or some durable, high-quality hoops that can handle whatever your weekend brings. The goal is to find versatile pieces that feel like a natural extension of your laid-back style, adding a little something special to your everyday look.

For a Night Out

A night out is your chance to make a statement and have fun with your style. Don’t be afraid to go all out with your jewelry! This is the time to bring out your standout diamond hoops or a bold, oversized pair that commands attention. You can pair them with a sleek gown or a modern suit to create a truly memorable look. Whether you’re drawn to sparkling gemstones or intricate metalwork from our Vintage & Estate collection, a night out is the perfect occasion to be bold and let your unique style take center stage.

Master the Art of Layering

Layering is a fantastic way to create a look that’s completely your own. If you have multiple ear piercings, you can create a beautiful "ear stack" by mixing and matching hoops of different sizes and textures. Start with your largest hoop in your first piercing and add smaller huggies or studs as you go up the ear. But layering isn't just for ears—pair your favorite hoops with a collection of delicate necklaces or a stack of bracelets. There are no strict rules here; it’s all about combining pieces from your collection to express your personality. If you need some guidance, you can always book an appointment with us for personalized styling advice.

Pair Them with Any Outfit

Hoops are a timeless accessory for a reason: they truly go with everything. While classic styles are always in, chunky and bold hoops are a fantastic way to add a modern edge to any outfit. A pair of small, thick hoops can bring a contemporary feel to a cozy sweater, while large statement hoops can perfectly balance a minimalist dress. Think of your hoops as the anchor of your look. They have the power to tie everything together, making them an essential and hardworking part of any jewelry collection.

How to Care For Your Hoops

You’ve found the perfect pair of hoops—the ones that feel like they were made just for you. Now, let’s make sure they stay as beautiful as the day you got them. With a little attention and the right care, your favorite hoops can be a signature part of your style for years to come. Proper care protects your investment and ensures your pieces are always ready to wear, whether they’re your everyday go-to's or special occasion showstoppers.

Clean Your Hoops Based on Material

The best way to clean your hoops depends on what they’re made of. For most fine jewelry, a simple and gentle approach is best. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water, and use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe your earrings. For intricate designs, a soft-bristled baby toothbrush can help you get into small crevices.

Remember to rinse them thoroughly and pat them completely dry. It’s important to keep your hoops away from harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine, which can damage metals and gemstones. If your hoops feature porous stones like pearls or opals, avoid soaking them and opt for a quick wipe-down instead.

Store Them Safely

How you store your hoops is just as important as how you clean them. Tossing them into a dish or a drawer can lead to scratches, tangles, and damage. To keep them safe, store each pair in a soft pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box with separate compartments. This prevents them from rubbing against other pieces, which can scratch softer metals or dislodge delicate stones. Proper storage also helps keep pairs together so you’re never hunting for a missing earring when you’re in a hurry to get out the door.

Prevent Everyday Damage

The easiest way to keep your hoops looking great is to make them the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off. Hairspray, perfume, lotions, and makeup can create a dull film on metals and gemstones, so apply all your products before putting on your earrings. It’s also a good idea to remove your hoops before you swim, shower, or work out. Sweat and chemicals can harm the finish of your jewelry over time. Taking these small precautions will protect the beautiful craftsmanship of your favorite designer pieces and keep them shining.

Ensure They Last a Lifetime

With consistent care, your hoops can become timeless treasures. Beyond regular at-home cleaning, it’s wise to have them professionally checked once a year. This is especially important for hoops with gemstone settings or intricate clasps. A jeweler can inspect the prongs and closures to make sure everything is secure, preventing a potential loss. This is a key step in caring for precious vintage and estate pieces. If you ever feel like your hoops need a deeper clean or a quick inspection, you can always book an appointment with us for a professional touch-up.

Where to Find Your Next Favorite Hoops

Once you know what you’re looking for, the search for your perfect hoops can be one of the most exciting parts of the process. Finding a pair that feels like it was made just for you is a special kind of magic. Whether you prefer to browse online or feel the weight of a piece in your hand, there are wonderful places to discover jewelry with soul. From curated collections to one-of-a-kind vintage treasures, here’s where to begin your search.

Why Shop at a Curated Boutique

Shopping at a curated boutique is like having a personal stylist for your jewelry box. Instead of sifting through endless pages of mass-produced items, you get a hand-picked selection of high-quality, unique pieces. We do the work of discovering talented artists and exceptional designs, so you can focus on finding what you love. A curated collection ensures that every piece has a story and meets a high standard of craftsmanship. It’s a more intentional way to shop, connecting you with jewelry that truly stands out and reflects your personal style.

Explore Our Designer Collections

There’s something special about wearing a piece of art. When you explore collections from independent designers, you’re not just buying an accessory; you’re investing in a vision. Each artist brings their unique perspective to their work, transforming classic hoops into modern heirlooms with distinct textures, shapes, and details. This is where you’ll find those truly standout pieces—the ones that start conversations and feel deeply personal. Getting to know the designers behind the jewelry adds another layer of meaning, connecting you to the hands that crafted your favorite new pair.

Discover One-of-a-Kind Vintage Finds

If you want a pair of hoops with a story all its own, look no further than vintage. These pieces offer a unique charm and character that can’t be replicated. Choosing vintage is also a beautiful way to shop sustainably, giving a new life to something that was treasured in the past. As jewelry trends lean toward more personal and expressive styles, oversized or uniquely detailed vintage hoops are a perfect way to make a statement. Our Vintage & Estate collection is full of timeless treasures waiting to be rediscovered by you.

Tips for Shopping in Person and Online

Whether you’re browsing from your couch or in our store, a few tips can make the experience smoother. If you’re shopping online, it’s always a good idea to check if a piece is in stock before you get too attached. In person, take the opportunity to try on different sizes and styles to see how they feel and frame your face. Nothing beats seeing the way a pair of hoops catches the light in person. If you’d like some guidance, you can always book an appointment with us for a personalized styling session to find your perfect match.

Create Your Signature Look

Finding your signature look is all about self-expression. It’s that feeling you get when you put on a piece of jewelry that feels completely, authentically you. Unique hoop earrings are the perfect accessory for this because they can be as subtle or as bold as you want them to be. Creating a personal style isn’t about following a strict set of rules; it’s about discovering what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Think of it as curating a collection that tells your story.

We can start by looking at which shapes best complement your features, but the real magic happens when you start weaving your personality into your choices. From there, you can build a versatile hoop collection that works for every mood and occasion. The final touch is learning how to mix and match your favorite pieces to create a look that’s entirely your own. Let’s walk through how to find the hoops that you’ll love and wear for years to come.

Flatter Your Face Shape

While the most important rule is to wear what you love, understanding your face shape can be a helpful starting point. Choosing the right style of hoop earrings can enhance your features and balance your proportions. If you have a rounder face, you might find that elongated or geometric hoops add a lovely definition. For those with a more angular or square jawline, classic round hoops can introduce a soft, complementary curve. Heart-shaped faces look stunning with hoops that are wider at the bottom, like teardrop styles, as they balance a narrower chin. And if you have an oval face, you’re in luck—nearly every style of hoop will look fantastic on you.

Weave Hoops into Your Personal Style

Your jewelry should feel like an extension of you and hold personal meaning. When you’re looking for the perfect hoops, think about how they reflect your personality. Are you drawn to timeless, classic designs, or do you prefer something modern and sculptural? Maybe your style is more eclectic and free-spirited. If you love clean lines and minimalism, a pair of sleek, unadorned gold hoops might be your go-to. If you’re more bohemian, you might gravitate toward textured hoops with unique charms. Exploring different designers is a great way to find artists whose work resonates with your personal aesthetic and helps you tell your story.

Build Your Perfect Hoop Collection

Just like a wardrobe of clothes, a well-rounded jewelry box allows you to express different sides of your style. Building a diverse collection of hoops means you’ll always have the perfect pair for any outfit or mood. A great starting point includes three core styles: a pair of tiny huggies for effortless, everyday wear; a classic, medium-sized hoop that works for everything from the office to dinner; and a bold, statement pair for when you want to stand out. From there, you can add unique pieces that catch your eye, whether they’re textured, gemstone-adorned, or an interesting shape. This approach lets you build a versatile and meaningful jewelry collection over time.

Mix and Match Metals and Styles

Forget the old rule about sticking to just one metal—mixing them is a modern way to create a dynamic, personalized look. Layering different pieces is about telling your own story, not following a formula. A simple way to start is by creating an "ear party" with hoops of different sizes, textures, and metals climbing up your ear. You can create harmony by choosing a dominant metal and adding one or two accent pieces, or you can tie the look together with a single piece that incorporates both gold and silver. This is also a beautiful way to combine contemporary designs with treasured vintage pieces, creating a style that is uniquely yours.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best first pair of hoops to invest in if I'm just starting my fine jewelry collection? A great starting point is a pair of small to medium-sized hoops in solid 14k gold. This style is incredibly versatile, offering a timeless look that you can easily wear to the office, on the weekend, or for a nice dinner. Look for a pair that feels substantial but not too heavy, with a secure closure. This classic foundation piece will be something you reach for constantly and can serve as the anchor for your collection as you add more unique styles later on.

I only have one piercing in each ear. Can I still create a layered look? Absolutely! Layering isn't just about multiple ear piercings. You can create a beautiful, dimensional look by pairing your hoops with other jewelry. Try styling your favorite hoops with a stack of delicate necklaces of varying lengths or a collection of bracelets on your wrist. The idea is to play with different textures and metals across your entire look, allowing your hoops to be one part of a larger, personalized story.

Are heavier or larger statement hoops uncomfortable to wear all day? They can be, which is why craftsmanship is so important. Many designers create larger hoops that are hollow, which gives you a bold, substantial look without the uncomfortable weight that can pull on your earlobe. When choosing a statement pair, pay attention to the overall weight and feel of the earring. A well-designed hoop should feel balanced and secure, allowing you to wear it for hours without a second thought.

I'm nervous about mixing gold and silver. Do you have any tips for making it look intentional? The key to mixing metals is to make it look deliberate and confident. An easy way to start is by choosing a "bridge" piece—a single item, like a ring or necklace, that already incorporates both gold and silver. This instantly ties your other pieces together. Another approach is to create balance; for example, if you're wearing silver hoops, try adding a stack of gold bracelets. It's all about creating a cohesive look that feels curated, not accidental.

How can I tell if a pair of hoops is high-quality when I'm shopping online? When you can't feel the jewelry in your hands, the details in the product description and photos are your best guide. Look for clear information about the materials, such as "solid 14k gold" rather than "gold-plated." High-quality photos should show the earring from multiple angles, including a close-up of the closure, which should look sturdy and well-made. Finally, buying from a trusted boutique that curates its collection from skilled designers is a great way to ensure you're investing in a piece that's built to last.