Green Jade and Marcasite Drop 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."

WIRE: sometimes called "shepherd's hooks" or "fishhooks," earwires are a thin, hook-shaped earring backs. They thread onto the ear and can sometimes be squeezed into place or held on with a rubber clutch.

JADE: Available in many nuances of green, plus black, red, brown and white, jade has been treasured for its beauty and strength since prehistoric times. Prized above all other gemstones in ancient China, jade jewelry continues to captivate with a Far East mystique.

CABOCHON: A style of cutting gemstones to achieve a smooth, domed surface with an absence of facets.

MARCASITE: Made popular during the Victorian Era, marcasite (also known as iron pyrite) shimmers with a metallic luster and diamond-like sparkle. Often used in Art Deco and Art Nouveau designs, marcasite lends jewelry a vintage vibe.