This minimalist, modern blue topaz pendant brings out a cool, clear blue in a simple, understated setting. Before it reaches the jeweller's hands, every stone is examined for colour and clarity, and any that are too pale or clouded are rejected. The faceted cut breaks light into small flashes that shift across the surface of the stone as the pendant turns, changing its intensity. It's this moment, when the topaz catches the light differently with every movement, that best reveals its quality.

Precious metals are steadily rising in price, and good stones in this shade of blue are becoming harder to find, which makes high quality at this price a sound choice today. The core of the pendant is refined European silver 925, stamped with the French maker's mark attesting to the metal's origin. Over it sits a layer of 18-carat gold at least 5 microns thick, confirmed by the struck V mark - it's this gold that touches the skin, giving a smooth, refined surface. An alloy free of nickel and other allergenic additives means even sensitive skin can wear it without irritation.

This pendant sits well with a simple turtleneck and a loose trench coat - the muted, neutral base lets the blue of the topaz draw the eye with every turn of the head. It also works well for a walk around town paired with a plain shirt and a thin scarf, where the slender chain settles easily along the neckline. Weighing 1.8 grams with a medium-sized stone, the pendant wears lightly all day without weighing on the neck.