Warm amber cabochons in these earrings catch the light differently than a faceted stone - the smooth surface spreads a soft glow, without sharp glints, while the interior of the amber reveals delicate flashes and streaks in shades of honey and cognac. The simple stud shape doesn't draw attention away from this colour - the earrings sit close to the earlobe, clearly visible with hair tied up or a short haircut. It's a minimalist shape that doesn't compete for attention, but lets the amber play on its own. In old beliefs, amber - actually fossilised resin - was associated with the sun and good fortune, which adds a warm, personal touch when given as a gift.

Each of the two ambers is examined before setting for colour and clarity of the interior, since this determines whether the cabochon cut will bring out the depth of the stone. Silver prices are rising, and good ambers are becoming harder to find, so this purchase makes price sense today. The setting is refined sterling silver 925 of high alloy purity - free of nickel and other additives that could irritate the skin. The surface is protected by a layer of rhodium, a hard metal resistant to scratching, thanks to which the silver stays untarnished and bright for a long time. The silver bears the French maker's mark, which attests to the origin of the metal.

At 2.7 grams and a medium size, the earrings wear light all day long. They look great with a soft turtleneck sweater in oatmeal white or camel - the amber then adds a warm note to a muted, monochromatic outfit. They also suit loose hair in copper or chestnut shades, with which the stone naturally pairs. In winter they work well with a wool scarf in cool grey, in summer with a linen shirt in a sandy tone.