This amethyst engagement ring plays with deep purple as light hits its cabochon surface - the colour deepens at the heart of the stone and lightens toward the edges, creating a soft inner glow. The very big setting lets the stone dominate the hand, while the rhodium silver around it stays clean and modern, without unnecessary ornamentation. Amethyst has long been associated with clarity of mind and inner balance, which makes it a fitting choice for such an important occasion. This symbolism suits the character of an engagement ring well.

For this setting we chose a stone with rich, even colour and high clarity - these are what determine a stone's value, not size alone. Silver and good coloured gemstones get more expensive every year, so buying a ring like this now makes sense price-wise. At this price you get solid craftsmanship and a stone hand-picked for its colour, a combination rarely found at such an accessible price. The ring is made from pure, refined European 925 silver, coated with a layer of rhodium that protects the surface from tarnishing and scratches - the shine stays bright for years to come. The alloy contains no nickel, the metal responsible for skin reactions, so the ring can be worn without worrying about skin irritation. The inside of the band bears the French maker's mark, struck on the piece and registered with the assay office, attesting to the origin of the metal.

For an evening out, the ring pairs well with a little black dress and a silk wrap - a hand wearing amethyst draws more attention than any other accessory. Against a simple black outfit, the violet of the stone becomes the strongest point of the whole look. The gesture of extending a hand or holding a glass then highlights the depth of colour and the scale of the setting. This is a ring that works equally well with evening silk and a simpler, everyday shirt.