Rich amethyst purple opens up this boho-style pendant, where six faceted stones settle into a loose, irregular arrangement. The faceted cut draws out the depth of colour with every turn of the head, breaking light into small glimmers, while the stone itself stays clear, with no clouding. The pendant measures 3.0 centimetres in length, so it sits easily at the neckline, without weighing down the chain or pulling at the throat. Amethyst has long been linked with calm and clarity of mind, and in many cultures it was seen as a symbol of balance.

We assess each of the six amethysts for colour and clarity before it ever reaches the setting, because this level of quality at this price is hard to find on the market today. Silver and other precious metals keep rising in price, so it makes sense to get a good stone now rather than wait. The piece is made using vermeil technology: a core of refined sterling silver 925 of European quality is covered with a thick layer of 18-carat gold, confirmed by the stamped vermeil mark V. It is gold, not silver, that touches the skin, and an alloy free of nickel and other harmful additions does not cause allergies or irritation. The French maker's mark stamped on the piece attests to the origin of the metal.

This pendant works well for an evening out - with a little black dress or a silk blouse, where an open neckline gives it room to stand out. The purple of the amethysts draws the eye against muted black, so the rest of the outfit can stay simple, without extra ornament at the neck. The large size of the stones means the pendant reads clearly even from a distance, which is unusual in boho styling given such a light, 2-gram form.