This necklace in rhodium-plated 925 silver plays with two cabochon-cut labradorites, set so the dark surface of the stone catches the light with every turn of the head. At first glance labradorite looks uniformly graphite grey, but tilt your head and a blue, occasionally steel-toned flash runs across the surface. The 74 cm chain sits loosely at the neckline, and the stones fall exactly along the collarbones, matching the clean, modern form of the piece as a whole.

Only a small share of the raw material examined makes it into this necklace - what matters is the depth of the dark background and the intensity of the blue flash, and everything else is rejected at the selection stage. Silver and good coloured stones get more expensive year on year, so a necklace of this price and quality is a sound choice today. The refined European silver, sterling silver 925, contains no nickel or other harmful additives, so the metal does not irritate the skin. A rhodium layer protects the surface against tarnishing and loss of shine, and the piece bears a maker's mark struck into the metal, registered with the French assay office, confirming its origin. The whole piece reflects European craftsmanship, visible in the precision with which both stones are set.

This necklace works well layered for weekends - under a loose oversized sweater, with a scarf thrown over in cool grey, or with a plain shirt and coat in muted tones. Labradorite draws the eye more easily then, since the surroundings stay calm. Labradorite has long been associated with peace of mind and self-confidence, and has also been regarded as a stone of inspiration. That association makes a necklace with two labradorites a fitting gift with personal meaning.