This ring with black onyx sets the stone's raw character against a smooth, modern band of rhodium-plated 925 silver. The onyx surface is deep, matte black, free of streaks or flashes - the cabochon cut emphasises this uniform colour instead of breaking it up with facets. Jewellers of old associated this stone with strength, endurance and self-assurance, which suits its firm, calm character well. The solitaire form - both a solitaire and a wedding style at once - means the ring works equally well as an everyday adornment for the hand and as a symbolic gesture on the finger.

Only a small portion of the sorted onyx rough makes it into the setting - what matters is a uniform, deep black free of scratches and inclusions, so the stone's quality stays high while the price remains reasonable. Silver and good stones are rising in price, so buying now makes sense from a price standpoint. Refined European silver of high alloy purity contains no nickel or other allergenic additives, so it can be worn without worrying about skin irritation. The rhodium layer protects the surface from tarnishing and scratches, keeping the shine bright for years to come. The silver bears the maker's mark struck into the metal, registered at the French assay office - it attests the piece's origin.

For the office, wear it with a jacket in cool grey and a plain shirt - understated styling lets the onyx lead the eye without extra adornment on the hand. In the evening it suits a dark dress and simple, matte accessories, where the black of the stone blends into the background and the rhodium sheen of the metal catches the light. The medium-sized ring sits naturally on the finger, never heavy - a good choice for everyday wear, not just for special occasions.