Exodus 32:2

The golden earrings were of good value and common use among the eastern people, who seem to have used them superstitiously, Genesis 35:4 Judges 8:24; and therefore Aaron demands these, partly that he might take away one vice, or occasion of vice, whilst the people were intent upon another; and partly that the proposed loss of their precious earrings might cool their idolatrous desires. In the ears of your wives, whom he thought most fond of their jewels, and most unlikely to part with them.