Solitaire Cubic Zirconia and Sterling Silver Vermeil Stud Earrings
Jewelry (Earrings) · Unmarked Contemporary Fine Jewelry Manufacturer
Pattern: Classic Solitaire Four-Prong Basket Setting
Type
Jewelry (Earrings)
Maker
Unmarked Contemporary Fine Jewelry Manufacturer
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) base with heavy gold vermeil plating, set with synthetic cubic zirconia stones
Dimensions
Estimated stone diameter approximately 6mm to 8mm (equivalent to roughly 1.0 to 2.0 carat diamond visual weight per earring), standard lightweight stud configuration
Description
A pair of classic solitaire stud earrings featuring large, brilliant-cut synthetic stones held securely in four-prong basket settings. The metal exhibits a warm golden tone characteristic of vermeil or gold-plated sterling silver, combining the affordable luxury of cubic zirconia with a precious metal base designed for everyday elegance.
Key Features
Classic four-prong basket setting, brilliant round-cut synthetic gemstones, warm gold vermeil over sterling silver finish, versatile everyday stud design
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) base with heavy gold vermeil plating, set with synthetic cubic zirconia stones
Finish & Decoration
High mirror polish on the gold-plated prongs and basket settings, paired with brilliant-cut faceted transparent synthetic gemstones
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, likely stamped '925' or 'STERLING' on the post or butterfly back clutch
Construction Details
Cast basket settings with hand-set prongs holding the stones, soldered mounting posts, paired with standard butterfly friction backs
Functional Features
Standard friction-back post closure designed for pierced ears, secure four-prong basket holding round brilliant-cut stones securely
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable to this jewelry piece; features standard ear posts and friction push-backs
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial casting and stone-setting techniques with clean symmetry, uniform prong placement, and bright finishing
Authentication Indicators
Visual assessment indicates standard commercial jewelry manufacturing techniques; precious metal content requires physical testing (acid test or XRF) to confirm .925 purity beneath the plating
Origin & Manufacturing
Mass-commercial or artisan production, common global provenance for modern silver jewelry
Era & Period
Modern Contemporary (Late 20th to 21st Century)
Age Estimate
Likely modern, c. 1990-Present, based on modern cut stone proportions and vermeil finish
Cultural Significance
Solitaire stud earrings represent a timeless staple in modern fashion, democratizing luxury by offering the sophisticated look of fine diamond jewelry accessible to a broad audience
Condition Notes
Very Good condition with minor signs of surface wear typical of gentle use; prongs appear secure and stones retain full brilliance
Value Estimate
Estimated retail or secondary market value ranges from $20 to $60 USD, largely dependent on the exact weight of the silver and brand packaging
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush; avoid harsh silver dips or abrasive polishing cloths that can wear away the gold vermeil plating
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver and cubic zirconia stud earrings by contemporary commercial jewelry brands and department store lines
Interesting Facts
Cubic zirconia was first commercially produced in the 1970s and quickly became the most popular diamond simulants due to its near-flawless optical clarity and brilliance