Two turquoise cabochons align in a simple, dangling line that shifts gently with every turn of the head. Before a stone is set, we assess it for evenness of blue - turquoise from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona has a calm, deep colour, free of blotchy discolouration. The smooth cabochon cut doesn't scatter that colour into facets, but gathers all the light onto it, keeping the blue pure and even across the whole surface of the stone. The modern, understated form of the earring posts lets the earrings sit slightly away from the earlobe and fall freely along the line of the neck.

Silver and good coloured stones are steadily rising in price, and turquoise of such even colour is becoming harder to find, so today's price makes sense. The setting is made of pure, refined sterling silver 925, free of nickel and other irritant additives, which matters for the sensitive skin around the ear. A rhodium layer protects the silver against tarnishing and scratches, so the metal's shine lasts through daily wear and removal. The silver bears a maker's mark registered with the French assay office, attesting to the metal's origin, and the European care in craftsmanship shows in the even edges of the setting and the precise placement of both stones.

These earrings work well with hair worn up, revealing the line of the neck and ears, for instance at a family celebration or a candlelit New Year's Eve dinner. An elegant dress in deep black or bottle green makes a quiet backdrop against which the turquoise blue immediately draws the eye. Warm, focused room lighting further brings the stone to life, and a classic bracelet or a delicate ring will complete the look without stealing its attention. The medium size of the earrings means they suit both an evening gown and a simpler, daytime look for an important family gathering.