A faceted amethyst brings a deep, violet glow to this pendant, shifting in intensity with every movement. The facets break light into fine flashes, and the stone's dark purple shades in places into a cooler tone of amethyst grey. Two cubic zirconias set at the crown of the stone add sparkle without taking away from its leading role. The modern, understated setting in rhodium silver keeps the design light - the pendant sits well on the neckline without overwhelming the line of the neck.

An amethyst like this - with such a pure colour and clear depth - is easy to overlook among stones of average quality, and a second, equally striking specimen is hard to find afterwards. Silver and precious metals have been steadily rising in price in recent years, which makes this purchase a sound one today. The refined silver, of European quality and sterling silver 925 fineness, contains no nickel or other harmful additives, so the pendant can be worn without worry of skin irritation. The rhodium layer protects the surface against tarnishing and scratches, so the shine lasts long and everyday care is kept to a minimum. The piece carries a French maker's mark, which attests to the origin of the silver. Jewellers of old associated amethyst with calm and clarity of mind, treating it as a symbol of inner balance.

A pendant like this works well for a family celebration - with a dress that has an open neckline and warm evening light, the violet tone of the amethyst gains in depth. It's worth pairing it with classic accents: small earrings in the same metal tone and a thin chain that doesn't draw attention away from the stone. With a high-necked dress, the pendant works better on a longer chain, leaving the amethyst exactly at the centre of the neckline.