Madras Screw
A South Indian earring fitting: a short rounded post through the ear, with a disc-shaped screw that twists onto the stem behind it.
The post itself is not threaded. It passes through the piercing and a broad disc backing screws onto the stem from behind.
That wide disc spreads the load across the back of the lobe, which is why the fitting is traditional on heavy jhumkas and temple earrings.
It is the default in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra, and the reason the same design is often listed twice, once with a south screw and once with a Bombay screw.
When you are buying
Choose Madras screw for anything heavy or worn all day. The disc acts as a counterweight and sits far more comfortably against the lobe than a small back does.
Bombay Screw
An earring fitting where the post itself is threaded, and a small screw back winds directly onto it.
Screw Back
An earring post with a threaded end and a nut that screws on. The most secure earring fastening.
Jhumka
A bell or dome-shaped earring, usually fringed with pearls or beads around the rim. The most recognisable Indian earring form.
Karanphool
A flower-shaped ear ornament, traditionally worn with a chain that takes the weight from the hair.