Iced Cross Stud Earrings in 925 Sterling Silver

A cross stud works on the same principle as a cross pendant but has to survive more handling. The arms are set with stones to the tips and the post sits behind the centre point, which is what keeps the shape upright rather than rotating on the lobe. These are studs, not drops, so the whole piece stays flat against the ear. That is the practical choice for anyone who wears earrings through a gym session, a shift or a night out.

There are two stone options and the trade is straightforward. Moissanite is harder at Mohs 9.25 and has a refractive index near 2.65, so it flashes more and its small stones keep their facet edges in a pave setting where there is little metal holding them. Zircon is softer at about 8.5, returns light more coldly and will haze slightly with age. It costs much less, and on a stud this small the visual gap is narrower than it would be on a solitaire.

Finish is gold or silver, both on solid 925 sterling silver rather than plated base metal, which is why they sit well in sensitive ears. Silver keeps the focus on the stones and is the easier pair to wear with a steel watch or a silver chain. Gold is warmer and shows up more against dark clothing and deeper skin tones. The pair suits men and women equally.

• Stone: D VVS moissanite or zircon
• Metal: 100% 925 sterling silver
• Finish: gold or silver
• Style: flat religious cross stud
• Wear: men and women
• Note: the GRA certificate applies to the moissanite option only