Judith Ripka "Versailles" Gray Labradorite Doublet and .40 ct. t.w. Sapphire Drop Earrings With Diamonds in 18kt Yellow Gold

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.

YELLOW GOLD: Gold is a precious metal with a natural yellow color. It is quite soft and often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength. The purity of the metal is indicated by a unit called a "karat," with 24kt having the highest percentage of natural gold.

TEXTURED: A unique and varying finish with a tactile surface applied through various techniques, both by hand and with machinery.

HINGED POST: An earring with a straight post insert and a hinged backing to hold it in place.

LABRADORITE: A unique mineral named for the Canadian region where it was discovered. Labradorite glows with an aura called labradorescence, causing it to shift in color depending on the viewing angle.

OVAL: An elliptical shape that resembles an egg.

ROSE-CUT: An antique gemstone cut dating back to the 1500s, with a flat back and a faceted top.

HEMATITE: The mineral form of iron oxide, hematite gemstones resemble polished metal, adding a dramatic, tough-chic shine to necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. Usually presented as faceted beads or cabochons, hematite is a gorgeous way to go gray.

SLICE: A thin, usually flat piece cut from a gemstone. Often has a free-form shape and reveals the natural beauty of a gemstone's interior.

SAPPHIRE: A favorite gemstone of ancient priests and royalty, the sapphire radiates sophistication and grace. This prized gem comes in every hue of blue, plus the more unexpected shades of pink, yellow, green and orange, and is September's birthstone.

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.