Two lapis lazuli stones in these earrings shimmer with a deep, navy purple shot through with golden flecks of pyrite - a subtle glimmer that brings the stone's dark colour to life with every turn of the head. The stud form is simple and modern, sitting discreetly against the earlobe, so the stone stays in the foreground, close to the face and hairline. This arrangement shows off the faceted lapis lazuli well and flatters the oval of the face without unnecessary weight.

For both studs we chose stones with an even depth of colour, so the pair looks cohesive and the quality-to-price ratio stays reasonable. Lapis lazuli has long been associated with ideals, intuition and inner harmony, which lends the earrings a personal meaning as a gift. Good stones of this quality are becoming harder to find, and with silver and precious metal prices rising, the current price of this pair is simply favourable. Rhodium on the surface protects the silver from tarnishing and loss of shine, so the earrings keep their fresh look for a long time. The refined European 925 silver in this alloy contains no nickel or other harmful additives, so wearing it does not irritate the skin. The silver also bears the French maker's mark, registered with the assay office, which attests the origin of the metal.

These earrings pair well with an evening out: the little black dress, a silk blouse or a satin top, when hair is swept into a bun or a sleek ponytail that reveals the ears and the line of the neck. In such a look, the deep navy of the lapis lazuli draws the eye without needing any further adornment. At 2.4 g, they stay light on the ear despite the stone's striking character, so they can be worn all evening without discomfort.