This labradorite engagement ring draws the eye with a depth rarely found in a stone this size. The cabochon sits on the hand as a dark, almost graphite plane, and as the hand moves, a blue, at times steely flash runs across the surface. The effect shows best in motion - light enters the stone and returns in a different colour. The plain, classic band keeps the focus on this play of light, and a single cubic zirconia at the side adds a discreet sparkle without competing with the main stone.

We select every labradorite for this ring individually, examining it under light to make sure the flash is distinct rather than random. The availability of quality stones is limited by nature itself, and silver is also getting more expensive year on year, so buying now makes sense price-wise. The rhodium on the surface is hard and scratch-resistant, keeping the band's shine clear for a long time. Refined European silver of 925 fineness guarantees a pure alloy, and the fineness mark confirms the metal contains no nickel or other harmful additives. The French maker's mark on the piece confirms the metal's origin. Labradorite has long been associated with calm thinking, inspiration and self-confidence - symbolism worth keeping in mind when choosing an engagement ring.

It works well for the office paired with a plain shirt and a fitted blazer in a muted colour - the blue flash lifts grey and navy without unnecessary extravagance. A hand wearing this ring looks confident, and the big size of the stone makes the gesture stand out even from a distance. At 3.6 grams, the band has a solid presence on the finger without weighing down the hand during everyday work.