These lapis lazuli stud earrings catch the eye with a deep, saturated navy in which flecks of golden pyrite occasionally flash. The faceted cut breaks the stone's surface into tiny planes, so light bounces off them in short flashes with every turn of the head. The form is simple and small, with no unnecessary detail, so the earrings sit close to the earlobe and don't feel heavy. Only a small portion of the raw material reviewed makes it into the finished piece - what matters is depth of colour and clarity of pattern, free of discolouration and cracks. Lapis lazuli has long been associated with intuition, idealism and inner harmony, making it a fitting choice for a gift with a personal touch.

Silver and good stones are rising in price, and navy of this depth is becoming harder to find, so this purchase makes sense right now. The earrings are made from pure, refined 925 sterling silver, sourced and refined in Europe, free of nickel and other harmful additives, so they can be worn without worrying about irritation. The surface is coated with a layer of rhodium, a hard metal resistant to scratching, which protects the silver from tarnishing and clouding - the shine lasts longer, and everyday cleaning is kept to a minimum. The piece is stamped with the maker's mark registered at the French assay office, which attests its origin.

For an evening out, these earrings work well with the little black dress or a smooth silk top - hair tied up in a bun or tucked behind the ears reveals the line of the neck and lets the stone play with the light near the face. The minimalist form doesn't compete with makeup or hairstyle, and the navy tone of the lapis lazuli pairs well with black, deep green and cool shades of grey. This is a choice for evenings when jewellery should be noticed, not shout for attention.