A faceted ruby draws the eye with the depth of its red, which at every shift of angle reveals fresh glints - from warm purple to an intense, saturated hue. The pendant keeps a clean, modern and minimalist silhouette: the form does not compete with the stone, and all attention stays with the ruby.

A piece like this is hard to find twice over - a ruby of this clarity and colour saturation is a stone that takes patience to source. Good rubies are becoming increasingly rare, and their prices are rising alongside silver prices, so buying now is simply the sensible thing to do. The metal is refined European sterling silver 925, rhodium-plated to protect effectively against tarnishing and dulling. The alloy is free from sensitising metal additives, so the pendant can be worn without concern even on sensitive skin. The French maker's mark struck on the piece, registered at the French assay office, confirms the origin of the metal.

For everyday wear the pendant works well at the neckline of a relaxed oversized jumper in off-white or warm beige - the red of the ruby brings life to muted tones without overwhelming the overall look. A draped scarf in grey or camel creates a natural backdrop against which the facets of the stone catch the light. This is a pendant that, with a quiet outfit, does more than many a bold accessory.