Ascher Cut Moissanite Earrings in 925 Silver

Ascher is a square step cut with clipped corners, and it behaves differently from a round brilliant. Instead of many small facets that scatter light, it has long, flat facets arranged in steps, which produces a hall of mirrors effect, with broad flashes of light and dark rather than glitter. The clipped corners also protect the stone, because sharp corners are where square cuts chip first. It is the cut for someone who wants something distinctive and architectural.

Step cuts are unforgiving of poor stones. The large open facets act like a window, so any inclusion or tint is easy to see, which is why the grade matters more here than on a brilliant cut. These are D colour, VVS moissanite, the top of the colourless range with no visible inclusions. Moissanite also passes a standard thermal diamond tester, though an electrical tester will separate the two. It measures 9.25 on the Mohs scale, with a refractive index of about 2.65.

Several sizes are offered, so read the millimetres. The 3mm is a small, neat square for everyday wear. The 5mm is the middle option and the easiest to live with. The 8mm is a large, bold square that works as a statement earring. Finish options include silver and gold. The whole range is set in 925 sterling silver, so there is no brass underneath to tarnish or mark the ear, which matters for anyone with sensitive skin.

• Stone: Ascher cut moissanite, D colour, VVS clarity
• Sizes: 3mm, 5mm and 8mm, plus further sizes
• Metal: 925 sterling silver
• Finish: silver or gold
• Shape: square step cut with clipped corners
• Fitting: post earring