This vintage ring with jade pairs a retro band silhouette with the deep, dense colour of the stone. The jade, cut as a cabochon, shows a soft inner glow in the light, and its green shifts from bright flashes to darker, saturated tones. This solitaire form works well as an engagement ring, and the small size of the stone together with its subtle setting also make it a natural choice for playing cards on the hand - a piece worn every day, not just on special occasions.

Only a small portion of the raw material examined goes into this piece, since purity of colour and freedom from flaws in the stone are what matter most. Silver and good coloured stones are rising in price, and jade like this is harder to find today at an accessible price, so this purchase makes sense right now. The ring is made of refined European silver, and the 925 fineness confirms the purity of the alloy - free of nickel and other harmful additives, so the metal does not irritate the skin. A rhodium layer protects the surface against tarnishing and scratches, which means the ring needs less everyday cleaning and keeps its shine for a long time. The maker's mark struck on the piece, registered with the French assay office, attests the origin of the metal.

In spring it looks good on a hand emerging from the sleeve of a pastel trench coat, together with a silk scarf tied at the neck and a light-coloured handbag carried in the crook of the arm. The green jade cabochon draws the eye against the soft, powdery tones of the outfit. This is a ring that combines vintage form with personal character - a good choice both for an engagement and for an afternoon of cards.