The front of an earring catches the light. Behind it, a much smaller component does an equally important job. The fitting needs to suit both the post and the finished piece.
What is a scroll back?
A scroll back, often called a butterfly back, is a separate fitting used with a pierced-earring post. Its two curled sections give it the familiar silhouette. A friction-fit scroll slides onto the post. A threaded screw back is different and requires a matching threaded post.
Match the fitting, not just the appearance
Two silver backs can look almost identical and still fit differently. Check the specification of both the post and the back before combining them. Where a compatible post diameter is stated, use that information rather than assuming all scrolls are interchangeable.
Check the actual pairing before wear. A back that slips off easily or needs excessive force is not a satisfactory match. If you are replacing a lost back and do not know the post size, ask a jeweller to assess the earring.
When extra-light backs make sense
Extra-light describes the weight class of the fitting, not a promise that it will suit every earring. Our extra-light sterling silver scroll backs are intended for small earrings. Consider the weight and proportions of the complete earring as well as the post fit. Do not assume a delicate back is appropriate for a substantial drop or heavy stud.
A considered replacement
Before selecting a replacement, establish whether the post is plain or threaded, which back is compatible with it, and whether that fitting suits the finished earring. Keep the original matching back where one remains, but remember that a visual comparison alone cannot confirm the fit.
If a back has become distorted or no longer holds reliably, have the fitting checked. Forcing an unsuitable back onto a post is not a substitute for choosing the correct component.
Explore the fittings
Our sterling silver extra-light earring scroll backs are supplied as two backs, making one pair. Earring posts and decorative fronts are not included.
For small, light earrings, our small sterling silver scroll backs in a two-pair pack provide four backs. This is a separate fitting from the extra-light pair above: check the product details and the fit on your actual posts before choosing.
Our medium sterling silver scroll backs are supplied as one pair of two backs for medium-sized earrings. Size labels such as small and medium are not a substitute for checking the fit on the actual post.
Explore more earring backs and scrolls.
Editorial imagery is illustrative. Pearl earrings and styling props are not included with the scroll backs.