These garnet dangle earrings draw out the stone's deep, dark purple, which the faceted cut breaks into small flashes of light with every turn of the head. Their vintage form gives them a calm, retro silhouette - slightly elongated, with no unnecessary embellishment - that sits well along the jawline and an exposed neck. Against lighter hair the garnet gains contrast, while against darker hair it blends into the tone and only catches the light on movement.

Each of the fourteen garnets passed through the hands of someone who assessed its colour and clarity before it was set, which is why the whole set shows a rich, even colour. Silver and good stones get more expensive year on year, and garnets of this depth of colour are becoming harder to find, so this is a sound purchase to make now. The setting is refined sterling silver 925 of high alloy purity, rhodium-plated with a layer that protects it from tarnishing and keeps its shine for a long time. The alloy contains no nickel or other harmful additives, which matters this close to the skin near the ears. The piece is stamped with the French maker's mark establishing the metal's origin, registered with the French assay office.

For an evening out these earrings work well with a little black dress and smooth silk - an understated outfit only draws more attention to how the garnet catches the eye with every turn of the head. Hair pulled into a bun or a bare neck lets their elongated, dangling form show to full effect. At 2.4 g they won't weigh on the ears even worn for longer, and the garnet's purple glow remains the main accent of the whole look.