This vintage ring with lapis lazuli catches the eye with a deep, saturated navy-purple hue, crossed by fine golden veins of pyrite. The cabochon cut highlights the smooth, slightly domed surface of the stone and gathers the light on it as the hand moves. The solitaire form, with a delicately decorated band, echoes old-fashioned ring settings in which a single stone formed the centrepiece of the whole composition - today the same layout works just as well as an engagement ring. Lapis lazuli has long been associated with intuition and inner harmony, and in old Middle Eastern jewellery it was sometimes a symbol of idealism.

A stone of this kind, with an even colour and a modest scattering of pyrite flecks, is easy to overlook among other stones, yet a second one of similar character is hard to find. The availability of valuable stones is limited by nature itself, and silver has risen in price in recent years, so today's price for this ring remains reasonable. It is set in refined European silver 925, coated with a layer of rhodium - this metal does not tarnish or dull, so the shine stays bright for years to come. The alloy is free of nickel and other harmful additives, so it does not irritate the skin even with constant contact. The piece is signed with the French maker's mark, which attests to the origin of the metal.

Its small, compact shape means the ring sits well on the finger and does not get in the way of everyday gestures - writing, holding a cup, buttoning a coat. For a meeting in town, it pairs well with a beige trench coat and a simple cool-grey turtleneck - the navy of the lapis lazuli enlivens a muted outfit and draws attention without any further ornament. It works just as well as an engagement gift as it does as a ring worn simply for the joy of owning a stone of such distinctive character.