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Waterfall Earrings

Waterfall Earrings

Last updated:

B+

78 / 100

ProductScore

$295
Earrings Evening and event stylingFashion-forward earring collectorsBold accessory lovers

Materials: Gold-plated brass with semi-precious stones and hand-strung glass beads

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B+

The Verdict

The Waterfall Earrings deliver Lizzie Fortunato's signature color-rich aesthetic in a dramatic drop format. Tiered semi-precious stones and glass beads create mesmerizing movement, making these ideal for fashion-forward evening wear. The artisan quality is evident, though the gold-plated brass construction is a consideration at this price.

Score Breakdown

Quality 29/40
Value 27/35
Style 22/25

What Customers Say

Based on 1,123 mentions across social media and review platforms

Admired for their dramatic movement and color gradients. Styling videos featuring these earrings consistently perform well on social media platforms. Users note they photograph beautifully and pair well with simple outfits. Weight concerns are the most common critique.

"These earrings move so beautifully when I walk — the cascading stones catch light and create this incredible shimmer effect. I feel like a fashion editor when I wear them. Absolutely love them."

Instagram comment

"Stunning artisan earrings. The gradient color effect from dark to light is really well done and the beadwork is precise. You can tell these were carefully handmade. Great purchase."

Reddit r/femalefashionadvice

"They look amazing but are definitely heavy for drop earrings. My ears were sore after wearing them to a two-hour dinner. Beautiful for photos but practical for short events only."

Trustpilot

"Nice statement earrings with good movement. The stones are interesting and the colors are vibrant. Feels like fashion jewelry with artisan touches. Fine for special occasions."

Google Reviews

"I bought these for a summer wedding and they were perfect. The beaded cascade paired beautifully with a halter dress. Everyone asked where they were from. Will definitely buy more Lizzie Fortunato."

Google Reviews

Pros & Cons

Strengths

  • + Dramatic cascading movement creates mesmerizing visual effect
  • + Beautiful gradient color work in semi-precious stones
  • + Handcrafted quality evident in beadwork precision
  • + Versatile color palette works across seasons
  • + Photographs exceptionally well

Trade-offs

  • Weight may cause earlobe discomfort during extended wear
  • Gold-plated brass base metal at a premium price
  • Delicate bead stringing requires careful handling
  • Not suited for everyday casual wear

Specifications

Base Metal Gold-plated brass
Stones Semi-precious stones, glass beads
Earring Length 3.5 inches (drop)
Back Type Post with friction back
Weight Approximately 18 grams per earring
Construction Hand-strung and assembled
Tiers 5 cascading levels
Country of Origin Handcrafted in New York

Alternatives to Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these earrings heavy enough to stretch piercing holes?
At approximately 18 grams per earring, the Waterfalls are substantial drop earrings. They are not recommended for new or sensitive piercings. For extended wear, consider using earring support patches (adhesive discs) placed behind the earlobe to distribute weight. Limiting wear to 3-4 hours at a time is advisable.
How fragile is the bead stringing?
The glass beads are hand-strung on professional jewelry wire that is quite durable under normal conditions. However, avoid pulling or snagging the earrings, and store them flat to prevent tangling. The beading can be repaired if damaged, though this requires professional jewelry repair.
Can I wear these with everyday outfits or are they strictly formal?
While designed as statement pieces, the Waterfall Earrings can elevate casual outfits when styled intentionally. They pair well with simple tops and clean necklines. However, the drop length and weight make them impractical for active everyday scenarios like commuting or office work.

Full Review

Design and Movement

The Waterfall Earrings embody Lizzie Fortunato’s gift for creating jewelry that moves like liquid. Five tiers of semi-precious stones and glass beads cascade from a sculpted gold-plated brass stud, creating a shimmering curtain effect that responds to every head turn and gesture. The gradient color work — transitioning from deeper tones at the top to lighter, more translucent beads at the bottom — gives the earrings a dimensional quality that flat photography cannot fully capture.

Artisan Craftsmanship

Each earring is hand-assembled in New York, with individual beads strung on professional-grade jewelry wire and attached to the brass framework with careful attention to spacing and movement. The result is earrings that swing freely without tangling, maintaining their cascade formation through natural wear. The beadwork precision is evident upon close inspection — stones are graduated by size and color with intentional artistry.

Wearability Considerations

At 3.5 inches of drop length and approximately 18 grams per earring, the Waterfalls are a commitment. They demand hairstyles that expose the ears and necklines that don’t compete. For the right occasion — weddings, galas, dinner parties — they deliver maximum impact. But extended wear beyond three to four hours may cause earlobe fatigue, and the delicate bead stringing requires careful handling and storage.

Value Assessment

At $295, the Waterfall Earrings sit in a gray zone between fashion accessory and artisanal investment. The handcrafted quality and unique design justify a premium over mass-produced statement earrings, but the gold-plated brass base means durability will always be a concern. For buyers who value design impact and artisanal character over material permanence, the Waterfalls represent a compelling option in the statement earring category.

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