Two amethyst cabochons hang loose at the ear, drawing out the stone's deep purple hue with a cool, almost plum-toned shadow. The modern, dangling form of these earrings lets the amethysts sway with every turn of the head, brushing the line of the neck and catching the light differently from each angle. In old jewellery tradition amethyst was linked to calm and clarity of mind, treated as a symbol of inner balance. That association makes it a fitting gift, though the stone's beauty needs no further argument.

Only a small share of the sorted rough makes it into these earrings - what matters is purity and depth of colour, and the rest is set aside at the selection stage. Prices for silver and fine coloured stones keep rising year after year, so buying at today's price makes practical sense. The setting is refined European silver 925, and a rhodium layer protects its surface against tarnishing and scratches, so the earrings need cleaning less often. A pure alloy, free of nickel and other sensitising additives, means even sensitive skin tolerates it without irritation. Each piece is stamped with the French maker's mark, which guarantees the metal's origin.

These earrings come into their own in the evening - with the little black dress, a silk blouse or a satin top that bares the shoulders. Hair swept into a bun or tucked behind the ears reveals the neckline and lets the purple of the stone draw the eye without competing with the rest of the outfit. Against a muted, black or charcoal look, it's the amethyst that carries the whole weight of colour. The medium size and weight of 4.2 grams keep the earrings feeling light despite their striking presence by the face.