Pink Opal 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.

OPAL: With an iridescent luster that can reveal a beautiful kaleidoscope of color, the opal has inspired many myths and legends. A white opal with swirls of soft pastel shades is popular for jewelry, but opals also come in black and blue. Opal is the gemstone for October birthdays.

PEAR: Similar to the outline of a pear fruit, this is a round shape that comes to a point on one side.

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