A black onyx cabochon opens up this pendant with a deep, impenetrable black that catches a soft sheen across the stone's smooth surface in candlelight or under a chandelier. The simple, slender setting nods to a vintage silhouette - no superfluous decoration, with all the attention on the stone itself. Worn low, it sits well against the neckline and throat, tracing a clear outline against the skin.

Only a small portion of the raw material examined makes it into the finished piece - what matters is the depth of black and the absence of even the faintest streaks or discolouration. This selection keeps the stone's quality high while the price stays reasonable, all the more valuable given that good specimens of onyx are increasingly hard to find today, and precious metals themselves keep rising in price. The setting is pure, refined sterling silver 925, stamped with the French maker's mark, which attests to the origin of the metal. Free of nickel and other harmful additives, the alloy can be worn without worry about skin irritation or allergic reactions. Onyx has long been associated with strength, endurance and confidence - an association that suits the pendant's simple, decisive form well.

For a family occasion, wear it with an elegant dress in a deep shade - navy, bottle green or burgundy - where the warm light of a chandelier will further set off the stone's sheen at the neckline. Classic accents, delicate earrings or a slim bracelet, round out the look well without drawing attention away from the onyx. It's the stone's dark colour that catches the eye, while the rest of the styling stays understated. At 3.9 grams, the pendant wears lightly despite the stone's large size.