7.00 ct. t.w. Lemon Quartz and 1.40 ct. t.w. Black Spinel Earrings in Sterling Silver

STERLING SILVER: Also known as "Standard Silver," sterling silver is silver alloyed with other metals to increase the hardness and durability. Generally, sterling is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals. Some sterling silver jewelry is plated with 14kt-18kt gold and referred to as "vermeil," or "gold over sterling."

LEVER: An earring backing with a hook-shaped insert and a hinged leverback to hold it in place.

QUARTZ: From the icy shimmer of rock crystal quartz to the delicate pink of rose quartz to the moody hues of smoky quartz, this gemstone offers something for everyone. Quartz, found in endless colors and varieties, is a popular choice for bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings.

CHECKERBOARD: A technique that creates a contrast of dark and light when light hits the pattern of square or diamond-shaped facets.

SPINEL: This rare and durable gemstone, found in a beguiling shade of inky black, catches the eye when set in rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Spinel is also found in captivating tones of pink, purple and green. The red variety is beautiful in its own right and in ages past it was mistaken for a ruby.

ZIRCON: Gem-quality zircon is a transparent crystal from the mineral zirconium silicate. It comes in a variety of colors, most popularly blue and colorless. Contrary to common belief, zircon is not Cubic Zirconia; it is a naturally occurring gemstone with different properties.