How to Choose Solitaire Stud Earrings: Carat, Setting and Backs

Short answer: Solitaire stud earrings, with a single diamond in each ear, are the most timeless diamond jewellery. Carat is usually given as the total of the two stones: 1-carat solitaire earrings means a stone of about 0.50 carat (5.1 mm) in each ear. When choosing, look at the total carat, how well the two stones match, a four- or six-prong setting and the security of the earring back (the screw back is the safest).

Pair total carat and size on the ear

The values are for well-cut round stones. Oval and princess stones look different at the same carat. What is a carat?

The setting: the seat that holds the stone

• Four prongs: show the most of the stone; a round stone looks framed in a square.
• Six prongs: hold the stone more tightly and make it look rounder.
• Bezel: metal wraps the edge of the stone; nothing catches, it is very durable and gives a modern look.
• Low setting: the stone sits closer to the ear and does not catch on hair or scarves.

Solitaire stud design.

Matching the two stones

In solitaire earrings the two stones are not side by side but in two different ears; still, their sizes and colours should be close. Stones of the same size and cut, with very close colour grades, are chosen. A well-matched pair looks balanced and carefully made, especially with large stones.

Colour and clarity

Earrings sit close to the face but away from the eye, so being one grade more flexible on colour and clarity usually cannot be noticed. G–H colour and VS2–SI1 clarity offer very good value in earrings. You can put the savings into stone size. Colour grades.

Earring back: butterfly or screw?

The classic butterfly back is easy to put on and is enough for most earrings. With a screw back, the earring post is threaded; the back is screwed on and the earring does not come off by itself. For valuable, large stones, the screw back is the safest choice.

For whom, and when?

Solitaire earrings are both the first diamond jewellery people buy for themselves and the most loved gift: for graduation, an anniversary, a birthday or a new beginning. Together with a solitaire ring and a solitaire necklace they make a classic set. Diamond sets · anniversary gifts. For men: men’s diamond earrings.

Frequently asked questions