Graduated Tennis Necklace, Moissanite or Zircon, 925

A graduated tennis necklace is not a line of identical stones. The stones are smaller toward the back of the neck and larger at the front, so the sparkle gathers where people look. That taper is a real design choice, and it changes how the necklace sits. The weight pools at the centre, which helps it hang straight, and the thinner back makes the clasp section lighter and more comfortable. Each stone is held in a three claw head, which keeps metal to a minimum.

You can have the necklace in moissanite with a certificate, or in zircon without one. The difference is real. Moissanite is harder at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, so it keeps its polish, and its refractive index of about 2.65 gives more fire than diamond. Zircon is softer and less lively, and it will lose some crispness over time, but it costs far less and suits occasional wear or a gift. The chain is 925 sterling silver.

Length changes how the graduation reads. The 35cm and 38cm are close fitting chokers that keep the large centre stones high on the throat. The 40cm and 43cm sit at the collarbone. The 45cm and 48cm drop lower, and longer lengths are offered beyond that. Choose the finish from the product photos, as the listing asks, and measure your neck with a strip of paper before ordering.

• Stone: graduated moissanite (certificate) or zircon (no certificate)
• Metal: 925 sterling silver
• Lengths: 35cm, 38cm, 40cm, 43cm, 45cm, 48cm and longer
• Setting: three claw heads
• Finish: choose from the product photos
• Note: the certificate applies to the moissanite option only