9ct Yellow Gold 2ct Lab-Grown Diamond Emerald-Cut Stud Earrings

A stud earring is the simplest structure in jewellery and the least forgiving: a setting, a post and a back, with nothing to hide behind.

This one is 9ct yellow gold, carrying 2 ct of lab-grown diamonds in total, cut emerald-cut. As a shape, an emerald cut is a step cut: broad parallel facets and a flat table, which trades sparkle for clarity and a long, architectural flash.

Will this suit me?

• Size: Sold as a pair. Each earring carries about 1 ct; an emerald cut of that weight typically measures about 7 × 5 mm face-up (for scale, an Australian 5c coin is 19.4 mm across).
• On the ear: A large stud with real presence. Emerald cut stones look a little larger than a round stone of the same weight. Their broad, flat facets give long flashes of light rather than sparkle.
• Comfort and security: Claw settings show the most stone but can catch on knitwear and fine hair. At this weight, a larger disc back helps the earrings sit upright on softer lobes.
• Everyday wear: Earrings take very little wear, and 9ct is the harder alloy, so these will stand up to being worn every day.
• Other options: Metals: 18ct white gold, 18ct yellow gold. Shape: oval.

Claw setting holds the stone at its girdle with individual prongs, leaving the sides open so light enters from every direction. It shows the most stone for the weight; the claws themselves are the wearing part and should be checked periodically.

What matters is that the setting sits flat to the lobe and the post is centred in it. An off-centre post is the reason studs tilt forward as the day goes on.

Specification

• Metal: 9ct yellow gold (375)
• Total stone weight: 2 ct
• Stone: Lab-grown diamond
• Cut: Emerald-cut
• Setting: Claw-set
• Type: Stud Earrings
• Sold as: Pair

9ct yellow gold is 375 parts per thousand fine gold. The higher alloy content makes it hard and more scratch-resistant than 18ct, which is why it's always been the popular choice for everyday wear.

Care. Sold as a pair. Butterfly backs loosen with wear and are worth replacing before they are lost.