Black Moissanite Stud Earrings, 0.5ct to 2ct, 925 Silver

Black moissanite is a different proposition to the white stone. It is opaque rather than transparent, so there is no light passing through and no clarity to grade. What you see is a dark, reflective surface with a sharp, glossy shine from the facets, closer to polished onyx with extra fire. That makes it the natural choice for a stud that reads as a statement of taste, and it is why these work equally well on men and women.

The stone is real moissanite, which is silicon carbide, set in solid 925 sterling silver. It measures 9.25 on the Mohs scale against a diamond's 10, so it resists the scratches that would dull a softer dark stone such as glass within months. A black stone shows surface wear very clearly, which makes hardness more important here than on a white stone, where small scuffs hide in the sparkle. The round cut keeps the shape simple and works with every face and ear.

Four sizes are offered and each pairs a carat weight with a diameter. The 0.5ct at 5mm is subtle and sits tidy on the lobe. The 0.8ct at 6mm is the everyday size most people choose. The 1ct at 6.5mm is clearly visible from across a table. The 2ct at 8mm is large and bold, and it is the one to pick if you want the earring to be noticed. Gold and silver finishes both use push back fittings.

• Stone: round black moissanite
• Sizes: 0.5ct 5mm, 0.8ct 6mm, 1ct 6.5mm, 2ct 8mm
• Metal: solid 925 sterling silver
• Finish: gold or silver
• Fitting: push back
• Fit: unisex, sold as a pair