Hermes Chaine d’ancre Divine Stud Earrings Rose Gold H222521B 00

Thirty-two diamonds is a strange number to fall in love with, and yet here we are: the Chaine d’Ancre Divine studs pack that many tiny stones into a motif barely over half an inch across.

The result is a bright, close-set sparkle rather than a pale glitter. The pavé work is even, with no visible gaps, and the 0.13 carats are spent lighting the whole surface instead of concentrating in one spot. Underneath sits a rose-gold frame shaped like the anchor link the collection is named for.

On the ear they read almost as one continuous piece of light, which makes them a smart alternative to a plain diamond stud: more interesting from an angle, less anonymous across a table. They work with a white shirt as easily as an evening dress, and I have worn mine to a wedding, a christening and several ordinary Tuesdays.

One honest consideration: a motif this size is made for close viewing. If your style is bold, these will feel precious and slightly hidden; if you like jewellery you touch and notice, they are perfect. Diamond-set pieces also deserve regular cleaning, since a soft brush and warm soapy water restore the sparkle that hand cream quietly steals.

Made in France in 750/1000 rose gold, and light enough to forget you have them on until someone across the table asks. Mine have been worn weekly for a year without a single loose stone, though I do take them off before gardening or moving furniture.