Moissanite or Zircon Stud Earrings, 0.5ct to 2ct

A stud earring is the simplest thing you can put in an ear, so the proportions have to be right. Each pair here carries one stone per ear, sized by carat from 0.5ct up to 2ct. The stone sits close to the lobe on a post, which keeps it stable when you pull on a jumper or tie your hair back. Because nothing hangs or swings, a stud like this works in an office, at a wedding and in the gym without needing to be changed.

Two stone options are offered, and the difference is honest. The moissanite is D colour and comes with a GRA certificate. It is harder, at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, so it keeps its polish, and its refractive index of about 2.65 gives it more fire than diamond. The zircon is softer and less lively, and it will lose some crispness over time, but it costs much less and is a sensible choice for a gift or a second pair.

Carat weight sets how loudly the pair speaks. The 0.5ct is discreet and wearable every day. The 1ct is the usual pick, large enough to catch light across a table without overpowering the ear. The 2ct is a clear statement and suits evening wear. All three weights come in white, yellow or rose gold finishes, set in 925 sterling silver plated with 18k white gold on the standard version.

• Stone: moissanite (D colour, GRA certified) or zircon
• Carat options: 0.5ct, 1ct, 2ct
• Metal: 925 sterling silver, 18k white gold plated
• Finish: white gold, yellow gold or rose gold
• Fitting: post and butterfly back
• Note: the GRA certificate applies to the moissanite option only