Solitaire Round-Cut Cubic Zirconia Sterling Silver Stud Earring
Jewelry (Earring) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of retail brands like Pandora, Swarovski, or department store private labels.
Pattern: Classic Solitaire Stud; a perennial design not limited to a specific collection.
Type
Jewelry (Earring)
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of retail brands like Pandora, Swarovski, or department store private labels.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with a clear Cubic Zirconia (CZ) stimulant gemstone. The metal appears to have a thin rhodium or rose-gold plating.
Dimensions
Estimated stone diameter: 6mm to 8mm (approx. 1-2 carat diamond equivalent). Weight approx. 0.5 - 1.0 grams per earring.
Description
This is a classic solitaire stud earring featuring a brilliant round-cut colorless stone held in a traditional prong setting. Crafted in sterling silver, this piece is designed to emulate the look of high-end diamond jewelry at an accessible price point. Its minimalist design makes it a versatile accessory for both casual and formal wear.
Key Features
Brilliant round facet pattern, four-prong open-back setting for light entry, and high-purity sterling silver base.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with a clear Cubic Zirconia (CZ) stimulant gemstone. The metal appears to have a thin rhodium or rose-gold plating.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; the setting uses a four-prong or six-prong basket design to secure the stone. No engraving or repoussé present.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '925' or 'S925' on the post or the butterfly friction back (not visible in image). Larger manufacturers may include a small logo or 'CZ' mark.
Construction Details
Machine-cast basket setting with die-struck prongs. The post is soldered to the base of the basket. Mass-produced high-volume manufacturing.
Functional Features
Friction post and butterfly back (nut) mechanism for secure attachment to a pierced earlobe.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is jewelry; the 'grip' refers to the butterfly back which provides tension against the post.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial jewelry grade. Machine-finished with consistent symmetry, though lacking the unique hand-wrought characteristics of artisan silver.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' mark on the post is the primary indicator of silver purity. The high dispersion (rainbow fire) inside the stone is a hallmark of Cubic Zirconia rather than natural diamond.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a large-scale jewelry hub such as Thailand, China, or Italy, following international sterling silver standards.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th - 21st Century); based on the precision cut of the CZ and the standard machine-manufactured setting.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-present; the condition and style suggest modern production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury fashion, allowing the 'diamond look' to be accessible to a wider demographic through the use of synthetic stones and silver.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The stone retains high clarity and the prongs appear tight and symmetrical. No visible tarnish or metal fatigue on the setting.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $45.00 USD retail, depending on the brand name and the quality of the plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Store in a lined jewelry box to prevent the silver from tarnishing. Avoid exposure to hairspray and perfume.
Similar Pieces
Moissanite studs (higher refractive index, more expensive), Diamond studs (authentic gemstone, gold/platinum setting), White Sapphire studs (less 'fire', natural gemstone).
Interesting Facts
Cubic Zirconia (CZ) was first synthesized in 1970 and became the most popular diamond stimulant in the world by the 1980s due to its durability and visual similarity to high-grade diamonds.