A solitaire necklace is one of the simplest pieces of jewellery you can own, and one of the most useful. A single sparkling stone on a fine chain works with a jumper on a weekday, a shirt at the office and a dress on a night out. It never feels like too much, and it never feels like too little.

But not all solitaire necklaces are the same. The way the stone is set, its size, the metal and the chain all change how it looks and how long it lasts. This guide explains what to look for, so you can choose one you will wear every day.

What is a solitaire necklace?

"Solitaire" simply means a single stone. A solitaire necklace is a pendant with one stone, usually round, hanging on a fine chain. It is the necklace version of the classic solitaire ring, and that is part of its appeal: it feels timeless rather than trendy.

Prong set or bezel set: which is right for you?

The setting is the part that holds the stone, and it makes the biggest difference to the look.

Prong set

A prong setting holds the stone with small metal claws, usually four. Because the stone sits up and is open on the sides, more light passes through it, so it sparkles more. This is the classic, delicate look, and the one most people picture when they think of a solitaire.

Choose a prong setting if you want maximum sparkle and a light, dainty feel.

Bezel set

A bezel setting wraps a thin rim of metal all the way around the stone. It looks smooth, modern and minimal, and because the edge of the stone is protected, it is less likely to catch on knitwear or scarves.

Choose a bezel setting if you prefer a clean, contemporary look, or if you want something especially practical for everyday wear.

How big should the stone be?

For everyday wear, smaller is often better. A stone of around 3mm to 4mm catches the light beautifully without looking heavy, and it sits comfortably under a collar. Larger stones make more of a statement and suit evenings and occasions.

If you are unsure, start small. A delicate solitaire is the one you will reach for every morning.

Diamond or cubic zirconia?

Diamond solitaires are beautiful, but they are a significant investment. Good quality cubic zirconia, often shortened to CZ, is cut to sparkle in a very similar way, is hard enough for everyday wear, and costs a fraction of the price. Look for a grading such as 3A or AAA, which refers to higher quality stones with better clarity and cut.

For a piece you want to wear daily without worrying about it, a well made CZ solitaire in real sterling silver is a sensible and beautiful choice.

The metal matters

Look for 925 sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver and should be stamped or engraved with 925. Base metals with a thin coating can wear through quickly and may mark your skin.

For a gold look, 18K gold plating over sterling silver gives the warmth of gold with a solid silver base underneath. For a bright silver look, rhodium plating adds a crisp white shine and helps resist tarnish. A clear protective coating on top helps either finish last longer.

Choosing the right chain length

A solitaire looks best when the stone sits just below the collarbone. For most women, a chain of around 40cm to 45cm does exactly that. A small extender is useful, because it lets you wear it slightly longer over a crew neck jumper, or shorter with an open collar.

How to wear a solitaire necklace

On its own

The simplest way is the best way. Wear it alone with a white shirt, a round neck knit or a simple dress, and let the stone do the work.

Layered

A solitaire is a perfect base for layering. Add a slightly longer chain, such as a paperclip or curb chain, or a second pendant like a T bar necklace. Keep the solitaire as the shortest piece so it sits closest to the neck.

With other jewellery

A solitaire pairs beautifully with a tennis bracelet in the same tone, for a matching look that still feels effortless.

Is a solitaire necklace a good gift?

It is one of the easiest gifts to get right. It suits almost every style and age, there is no size to guess, and it marks birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and Christmas equally well. It is also a lovely bridesmaid gift, because it looks elegant on everyone.

How to care for your solitaire necklace

• Take it off before showering, swimming or exercising
• Put it on after perfume, hand cream and moisturiser
• Store it on its own in a soft pouch so the chain doesn't tangle
• Wipe the stone gently with a polishing cloth to bring back the sparkle

For more tips, read our guide on how to clean silver jewellery at home.

ANVIRA solitaire necklaces

All four of our solitaire necklaces are made from 925 sterling silver with 3A grade cubic zirconia, a clear protective coating, and an engraved ANVIRA 925S tag at the clasp. Each one has a 40cm chain with a 5cm extender, arrives gift boxed with a pouch and polishing cloth, and is covered by our 12 month warranty.

Prong set, for maximum sparkle: a stone of around 3mm to 4mm held by four claws, on a fine 1.2mm chain.

• Gold Prong Set Solitaire Necklace, with 18K gold plating
• Silver Prong Set Solitaire Necklace, with rhodium plating

Bezel set, for a clean modern look: a round stone wrapped in metal, with a pendant of around 8mm by 5mm, on a delicate 1mm chain.

• Gold Solitaire Pendant Necklace, with 18K gold plating
• Silver Solitaire Pendant Necklace, with rhodium plating

In short

Choose a prong setting for sparkle or a bezel setting for a clean, practical look. Keep the stone delicate for everyday wear, make sure it's real sterling silver, and pick a chain that sits just below your collarbone. Get those right, and your solitaire will become the necklace you never take off.