the deep blue of the turquoise is the first thing you notice on this pendant - the cabochon cut smooths the stone's surface and gathers the light into one calm point, without sharp glare. around it, sixteen small cubic zirconia stones add a delicate sparkle that doesn't compete with the turquoise but frames it. before each stone was set, it was assessed for colour - what mattered was an even, deep blue, free of streaks or discolouration. turquoise like this, sourced from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, is considered one of the most prized in the world.

silver and good stones get more expensive every year, so buying this pendant now makes sense price-wise. the metal is rhodium-plated - the rhodium layer is hard and resistant, protecting the silver from tarnishing, dulling and scratches, so the shine lasts. the silver itself is refined European 925 silver of high alloy purity, free of nickel, which is usually responsible for allergies - so this piece will not irritate the skin. the pendant carries the French maker's mark establishing the piece's origin, registered with the French assay office.

the classic form of this pendant suits weekend layering - under a chunky oversized sweater, over a wool scarf tied loosely around the neck, among calm, earthy colours. the blue of the turquoise brings life to greys and beiges, and against skin revealed by a loose turtleneck it becomes the natural point where the eye rests. at 2.2 grams, the pendant sits lightly and won't weigh down the chain all day.