These dangle earrings with lapis lazuli combine a classic, minimalist form with the deep, intense colour of the stone. Here the lapis lazuli shows a rich, dark navy hue broken up by fine, golden flecks of pyrite - it is precisely this natural, irregular pattern that sets it apart from uniform imitations. The cabochon cut shows off a smooth, slightly domed surface that catches the light differently with every turn of the head along the line of the neck and hairline. A slender post draws the eye down from the ear to the suspended stone, creating a slim, carefully composed silhouette.

Only a small share of the raw material examined makes it into these two stones - what matters is depth of colour and clarity of pattern, so the final selection is narrow. Prices for silver and fine coloured stones keep rising steadily, and lapis lazuli with such a vivid colour is becoming increasingly rare, so today's price for this model remains reasonable. They are set in rhodium-plated 925 silver - the rhodium layer protects the surface from tarnishing and scratches, so the earrings need cleaning less often and keep their shine for longer. The base is refined 925 sterling silver, sourced and refined in Europe, an alloy free of nickel and other allergenic additives, so they can be worn without worrying about skin irritation. The piece is stamped with the French maker's mark, which attests to the origin of the metal. In traditional jewellery lore, lapis lazuli has been associated with idealism, intuition and inner harmony, making it a fitting choice for a gift with a personal message.

For an evening out, pair them with the little black dress and a silk blouse in a cool shade - the navy of the stone stands out beautifully with hair pulled back, revealing the line of the neck and ear. With a simple hairstyle and understated make-up, it is the colour of the lapis lazuli that draws the eye, with no need for extra jewellery around the neck. They work just as well with a tailored suit for business occasions, where the cool navy balances out an understated, classic look.