This engagement and wedding ring, cast in a modern spirit, plays with the silky sheen of tiger's eye. This stone, a variety of quartz, is known for its cat's-eye effect - a narrow band of light that travels across the surface of the cabochon with every movement of the hand. In one moment deep brown dominates, in the next a golden flash appears, as if the stone were shifting shade with the motion. In jewelry tradition tiger's eye has been associated with stability and renewal, which corresponds well with the symbolism of engagement and marriage.

The stone is examined carefully even before it is set, checking the pattern of its bands and the depth of colour, because only a clean, well-coloured specimen makes it into the jeweler's work. Silver and good stones of this quality are rising in price, so buying a ring like this today makes sense financially. The setting is made of refined sterling silver 925 of European quality, and a rhodium layer protects the metal from tarnishing and keeps its shine for years to come. The alloy contains no nickel, so even sensitive skin tolerates it well. The piece is stamped with the French maker's mark establishing its origin, registered with the assay office.

Styled for the office, the ring pairs well with a smooth shirt and a jacket in muted, earthy tones - the brown of the stone sits naturally alongside beige and grey. It also works well as a ring for engagements or wedding ceremonies, when you're looking for a modern but understated form. Weighing 2.0 g, in a medium size, it stays light on the finger and doesn't get in the way of everyday hand movements.