2.6cttw Moissanite Hoop Earrings in 925 Silver

A hoop set all the way round behaves differently to one with stones only on the front face. Because the stones continue past the curve, the earring keeps flashing when you turn your head and when it is seen from behind, which is most of the time in conversation. The 2.6 carats total is split across the full circumference, so each stone stays small and the hoop stays light on the lobe rather than pulling it forward.

The stones are moissanite throughout. Hoops get handled more than studs, pushed through the piercing, caught in hair and set down on hard surfaces, so hardness is the specification that decides how they look in a year. At 9.25 on the Mohs scale moissanite stays bright where softer simulants scuff. Its refractive index of about 2.65 is higher than a diamond's 2.42, which is why a small stone on a hoop still reads as fire rather than glint.

Five finishes are listed. Silver, gold and rose gold are the standard three and differ only in how warm the stones read. The black stone version sets dark stones in the same frame, which trades sparkle for a matte graphic look that sits well with a more understated wardrobe. The white black stone version alternates the two, so the hoop has contrast without going fully dark. All are built on 925 sterling silver plated 18k with a secure hinged closure.

• Stone: full set moissanite
• Total weight: 2.6cttw
• Metal: 925 sterling silver, 18k plated
• Finish: silver, gold, rose gold, black stone or white black stone
• Closure: hinged hoop
• Sold as: one pair