Smoky Quartz and Diamond Earrings in 18K

Smoky quartz is a lovely cognac color relative of amethyst, sometimes incorrectly referred to as smoky topaz. If you love the rich earthy color of chocolate, you’ll enjoy the way smoky quartz adds sophistication to this design. In alpine countries, rosaries and crucifixes are often made from smoky quartz because it was said to protect from danger and also to help soothe grief. Smoky quartz is also said to bring its owner inner peace. Although today most smoky quartz is mined in Brazil, it is also the state gemstone of New Hampshire and the official gem of Scotland.

In gold-loving Italy, 18K yellow gold is the most popular precious metal. That’s because it’s 75% pure gold, with the rich buttery color that we think of when we picture gold. That’s more gold than the 58.5% you’ll find in 14K gold jewelry. It’s more expensive than 14K gold too, of course, because it has more intrinsic value. Most high-end jewelry brands work in 18k gold because they feel it is more luxurious and the best gold alloy.