The lapis lazuli cabochons in these earrings catch the eye with a deep, saturated navy blue and fine flecks of golden pyrite. A shade like this - dense, almost dark navy without any grey undertones - is rare to find, and matching a second pair with such even depth of colour is close to chance. The vintage form of the studs with a dangling element echoes jewellery from decades past, when stones were set simply, without unnecessary embellishment. Lapis lazuli has long been associated with idealism and intuition, and in some traditions it was treated as a symbol of harmony.

The two stones were hand-matched for even colour and clarity, which at this price is rare. Silver and good coloured stones get more expensive year on year, and pieces of this quality are getting harder to find - so this purchase makes price sense today. The setting is refined European silver 925, stamped with the French maker's mark attesting the metal's origin. The alloy contains no nickel or other harmful additives, so the earrings can be worn without worry of irritation or allergic reaction.

The navy of the lapis lazuli plays beautifully against dark hair and fair skin, drawing attention to the neckline when hair is worn up or short. For an evening out, they pair well with a little black dress or a silk blouse worn without an additional necklace, so the focus stays on the face. A delicate silver bracelet is enough to complete the look and keep it calm and elegant. At 4.1 grams, the earrings wear light despite their striking character.