Ornaments worn in the ear by both men and women. Usually made of gold or silver, they represented valuable possessions and could be used as gifts (Genesis 24:22 , Genesis 24:47 ), even gifts to God (Exodus 32:2; Exodus 35:22; Numbers 31:50; Judges 8:24-26 ). In describing His loving relationship with Israel, God said He had put a ring in her nose and earrings on her ears (Ezekiel 16:12 ). Before returning to Bethel, Jacob got his family to put away their foreign gods and earrings (Genesis 35:2-4 ). These may have been magical apparel with engraving of words supposed to ward off evil. Compare Isaiah 3:20 in KJV (“earrings”) and NAS, NRSV (“amulets”), and NIV (“charms”). More ornamental than the finest gold earring, however, “is the wise reprover on an obedient ear” ( Proverbs 25:12 ). See Jewelry.