Andrea Candela Black Onyx Doublet Earrings with Diamonds in Sterling Silver and 18kt Yellow Gold

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."

18KT: Karat (abbreviated kt or K) is a unit that indicates the purity of gold in the metal. 18kt is 75% gold. In Europe, 18K yellow gold is most favored and used in jewelry.

POST/CLUTCH: An earring with a post insert and a slide-on clutch backing to hold it in place.

ONYX: A favorite of the ancient Greeks and Romans, this gemstone adds a sophisticated shine to rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. A dyed form of chalcedony, onyx is most popularly found in black although it can be green, white or red, as well.

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

Diamond: The hardest and most brilliant of all gemstones, a diamond can make the heart race with its pure and fiery spark. An ancient symbol of love, a diamond is the preferred gemstone for tokens of affection, such as rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Diamond is the birthstone for April.

BRILLIANT: A gemstone cut to enhance brilliance without sacrificing much carat weight. Typically has 58 facets.

Color Grade H-I: Near-colorless