Two labradorite cabochons draw the eye with the depth of their dark surface, across which a blue and steely flash of labradorescence moves. The cabochon cut does not break this effect into facets - it concentrates it in one place, so the reflection appears clearly with every turn of the head. A border of 28 cubic zirconia strengthens the contrast: cold sparks surround the dark stone and give these earrings a classic, evening character.

Before a labradorite goes into its setting, we assess it for vivid colour play and surface clarity - only stones with a distinct blue flash pass the selection. Good labradorites are becoming increasingly rare, so the price today is genuinely reasonable. They are set in refined sterling silver 925, free from nickel and harmful additives - the alloy does not irritate even sensitive skin. A rhodium layer protects the metal against scratches and keeps a bright shine for a long time. The French maker's mark struck on the piece attests to the origin of the metal.

These dangle and drop earrings work well in the evening with a little black dress or a silk dress in a deep colour - the blue flash of the labradorites then brings the line of the neck and shoulders to life without the need to reach for further jewellery. Against dark hair the stone draws out cool tones; against light hair it contrasts and focuses the gaze. The classic form of these hanging earrings suits an updo that exposes the ears and lets the stone work with the light.