Deep black onyx set into this small solitaire looks as though it were cut straight from a fragment of night. The cabochon cut does not scatter colour through facets, but smooths the surface into a single, calm plane - light glides across it instead of breaking within it, and the onyx takes on an almost velvety depth. The vintage form of the solitaire draws on a twofold symbolism: solitaire as a gesture for oneself, promise as a gesture towards another person, which is why this ring works just as well as a gift as it does as a piece worn purely for one's own pleasure. Onyx has long been associated with strength, resilience and self-assurance, qualities that sit well with the character of this form.

The stone for this solitaire is chosen for its pure, uniform black without streaks - this is what decides whether a given piece makes it to sale. Such careful selection, combined with the ring's small size, helps keep the price reasonable, even as silver rises in price and good-quality onyx becomes harder to source. The rhodium coating over the silver protects it from tarnishing and scratches, so the shine stays bright for years. Beneath it, pure, refined European silver of 925 fineness contains no nickel or other harmful additives, so even sensitive skin can wear it without irritation. The piece is stamped with the French maker's mark establishing its origin, registered at the French assay office.

On the hand, this small solitaire works best surrounded by total black - a black blouse or turtleneck creates a backdrop against which the onyx stands out not through colour but through shine. In such styling, it is the glint of the rhodium-plated silver and the smooth surface of the cabochon that catch the eye with every movement of the hand. It also pairs well with a dark, simple blazer and leather details, where the vintage character of the form does not compete with the rest of the outfit. This is a ring for a hand that favours a discreet yet clearly defined gesture.