The deep, dark purple amethyst in this pendant shifts into a violet hue, and the cabochon cut draws out its depth with every movement. Twenty-four small cubic zirconia stones are scattered around the stone, adding sparkle without stealing the spotlight from the centrepiece. The pendant's form is simple and modern, close to current French jewellery lines - light, geometric, free of unnecessary detail. In jewellery tradition, the stone has long been associated with calm and clarity of mind, a symbol of inner balance.

We select each amethyst for this pendant individually, checking its colour and clarity before it goes into the setting. Silver and good coloured stones get more expensive year on year, so a piece this well made at this price is a sound choice today. It is set in refined European silver 925, additionally coated with rhodium, a metal that protects the surface from tarnishing and scratches, so the pendant needs cleaning less often. A pure alloy free of nickel and other allergenic additives means it can be worn without worrying about irritation. The silver here bears the French maker's mark, which attests its origin.

This pendant works best in the evening - with the little black dress and an open neckline, or with a silk blouse with a low collar, where the purple stone immediately draws the eye. It's worth keeping the rest of the look understated: no extra necklaces, just simple stud earrings. With hair swept back, the neckline stays bare, and the amethyst and cubic zirconia catch the evening light freely.