Hermes Chaine d’ancre Enchainee Ear Climber Earrings Sterling Silver H122506B 00

Ear climbers are the most misunderstood piece of jewellery in my drawer, and these Enchainée climbers in sterling silver made me a convert: they trace up the rim of the ear rather than hanging below it.

At 2.56 cm long and a slim 0.71 cm wide, the silver link hugs the curve of the ear’s edge, which gives the illusion of a piercing you do not have, or of a chain climbing out of one you do. In 925/1000 silver it is bright and comfortable, and there is no post to fiddle with, which I like more than I expected. It also feels unexpectedly secure once properly settled.

I wear mine on one side only, with the hair pulled back, usually with an earring or two already lower down the same ear. It is a look that reads distinctly modern, and it works with a T-shirt as well as a slip dress, though it does look odd if you pair it with another climber on the same ear.

What nobody tells you: climbers must fit snugly or they will tip forward and pull, especially on a small lobe. Spend a minute bending the piece gently to your own ear the first time and it will stay put all day. Silver care applies too, so keep them dry and wipe them after wear.

Made in France, and the single most useful piece of jewellery I own for days when I have no time but want to look deliberate.