I find the introduction of new types of stones fascinating. When cubic zirconia became widely available in the mid-1970s, it was considered a diamond alternative and was quite expensive. The same with moissanite, when gem quality stones were introduced in the 1990s. Over time, the prices for both of these dropped substantially.

Again, quite expensive. Now we have lab diamonds which were also priced high when introduced and have now fallen dramatically in price.

These earrings from Santinni are made with sterling silver and cubic zirconia and in a couple of years we will probably see similar at similar prices using lab diamonds. These are priced at £175.