Deep, smoothly finished black onyx cut as a cabochon draws the eye with a matte, almost velvety glow. A cabochon does not scatter light into flashes but gathers it on the stone's surface - hence this calm, dense shine that shifts only with a slight turn of the hand. The ring's vintage silhouette, with a clearly defined border around the stone, recalls forms worn in past eras, when black onyx was associated with strength of character, perseverance and self-confidence. The very big size of the stone gives the onyx pride of place in this composition.

For this setting we chose a stone of uniform, deep black without streaks or translucent patches - it was precisely this purity of colour that decided the choice. The setting is rhodium silver, refined sterling silver 925 of European quality plated with a layer of rhodium that protects the surface from tarnishing and keeps the shine for years to come. A pure alloy, free of nickel and other irritating additives, offers comfort for sensitive skin. The metal is stamped with a maker's mark registered at the French assay office, attesting to its origin. Silver and fine stones get more expensive year on year, so buying a ring like this today remains a sound decision price-wise. The design works well as a wedding and engagement ring - onyx has for generations been chosen for these special occasions.

In the evening this ring comes into its own with a little black dress and a silk wrap - the onyx's matte black echoes the fabric, while the rhodium-plated silver adds a cool contrast. With the gesture of raising a glass or touching one's hair, the cabochon catches the room's light and plays with a calm glow, without competing with the rest of the outfit. It's worth pairing it with a simple bracelet in the same metal and skipping rings on other fingers - the hand then gains a clean, French elegance.