The deep, matte black of the onyx gazes out from the centre of this ring like a calm focal point, framed by a halo of twelve small cubic zirconia stones. The cabochon cut keeps the stone's colour whole rather than breaking it into facets - what remains is a single, smooth surface where light only catches along the edge, right where the ring of cubic zirconia begins. This contrast between the dark centre and the bright surround gives the halo shape a modern, striking outline, even though the ring itself is very small and sits low on the finger. In old-world craftsmanship, black onyx was linked with strength, endurance and self-assurance - symbolism well suited to a ring with a halo and engagement character.

Not every onyx suits a setting like this - a stone with even, deep black colour and a clean surface free of streaks is easy to overlook, and once you find a good cabochon, matching its quality again is hard. That's why this stone, at a reasonable price, deserves attention, especially as silver and good gemstones keep rising in price. It is set in pure, refined European sterling silver 925, free of nickel and harmful additives - a metal that doesn't irritate the skin. A layer of rhodium protects the surface from tarnishing and keeps the shine lasting longer. The silver bears the French maker's mark - a legally protected stamp registered with the assay office in France, attesting to its origin.

In summer, this ring works well on a hand emerging from the sleeve of a linen dress in a light, ecru shade - the black of the onyx and the sparkle of the cubic zirconia stand out easily against the natural fabric. It also suits a simple cotton shirt tied in a knot with wide linen trousers, where the gesture of a hand wearing the ring becomes a natural point of focus. It's a piece that can be worn alongside delicate jewelry on the wrist without fear of overdoing it - the cubic zirconia halo and the onyx cabochon are enough on their own.