A warm amber cabochon meets a delicate silver setting in a form that needs no extra embellishment. Amber is quite literally fossilized resin from millions of years ago, and its interior is often full of tiny streaks and bubbles that catch the light into a one-of-a-kind pattern. When rays fall on the surface of the stone, the depth of its honey colour takes on a warm glow, while the darker patches shift into a rich, almost brownish purple. In old Baltic craft traditions amber was linked to sunny warmth and good fortune - an association that still holds today, not least as a fitting gift idea.

Only stones of clear, pure colour are selected for setting, evaluated before they are even set in silver. Amber of this clarity is getting harder to find, and prices for good stones and for silver are rising, which makes this purchase a sensible one right now. The setting is pure, refined 925 sterling silver, extracted and refined in Europe, free of nickel and harmful metal admixtures - such an alloy does not irritate the skin. A layer of rhodium protects the surface against tarnishing and scratches, keeping the shine bright for years to come. The French maker's mark on the piece attests to the origin of the silver.

This very small, lightweight piece works well against a neckline revealed by a silk blouse or a little black dress. The simple line of the chain does not compete with the stone - it is the amber that draws the eye while the rest of the outfit stays understated. In the evening, it is worth skipping additional jewelry and letting this pendant alone lead the whole look at the neckline. At 1.4 grams, it can be worn all evening without any sense of weight.