Dark and distinctly minimalist, this labradorite ring draws out a cool blue flash that only appears once the hand moves. The cabochon cut does not scatter that glow through facets - instead it gathers it into one smooth point, so the stone's dark, graphite surface suddenly lightens into a steel-toned sheen. The plain band does not distract from this play of light, and the ring's form stays classic and understated. In old craft tradition labradorite was linked to calm thinking and self-belief, which suits its role well in a promise ring.

The stone's colour and clarity decide which piece makes it into this ring - what matters is the depth of the blue reflection and the absence of any clouding. Good labradorites are getting more expensive along with silver, so buying one now makes sense price-wise. The stone is set in refined sterling silver 925 of European quality, stamped with the French maker's mark, which attests the metal's origin. A rhodium layer protects the surface from tarnishing and scratches, keeping the shine bright for years, and the pure alloy, free of nickel and other sensitising additives, means the ring can be worn with confidence even on sensitive skin.

On the hand it works best paired with an all-black look - a black turtleneck or a plain top creates the backdrop against which the stone's blue reflection becomes visible from the very first gesture of the hand. The ring has a very small, delicate form and weighs 1.8 grams, so it sits on the finger light and unassuming until it catches the light. It is a quiet shape for a promise that does not need a large stone to catch the eye.