Green onyx square ring, rhodium-plated 925 silver, adjustable, 0.7x0.7 cm

A dark green and a square shape: this ring stands out at first glance. The natural green onyx is set on rhodium-plated 925 silver, adjustable from 52 to 58 mm.

The top measures 0.7 x 0.7 cm and it weighs only 0.6 g. Adjust it for your index finger to make it a feature, or for your little finger for a subtler touch.

Onyx is a chalcedony, a very fine form of quartz, arranged in parallel bands of contrasting colors. Its name comes from the Greek onux, "fingernail": a legend tells that Eros cut Aphrodite's nails while she slept, and that the gods turned them into stone. Since Antiquity, its contrasting layers have been used to carve cameos and engrave seals; the Romans readily wore it as a talisman of courage. In the Middle Ages, by contrast, its dark color earned it a sinister reputation in Europe, while other traditions made it a stone of protection. It is found notably in Brazil, India and Uruguay. Its polished surface takes on a deep, understated luster that goes easily with any outfit.

The stone in your jewelry comes from India.

In lithotherapy, onyx is a stone of protection, grounding and inner strength. It is credited with the role of a shield against negative thoughts and outside energies; it may help strengthen willpower and self-control, manage stress better, stay focused and gain confidence in your own decisions. Tradition links it to the Root Chakra and to the sign of Capricorn. These benefits belong to the beliefs of lithotherapy: nothing proves them scientifically, and they are in no way a substitute for medical advice. Onyx is worn above all for its understated elegance, which suits a daytime outfit as well as an evening look.

Your rhodium-plated 925 silver jewelry needs no special care. Clean it in lukewarm, soapy water with a soft cloth, then dry it. Avoid hard brushes, which can scratch it, and harsh chemicals. Over time, the rhodium layer may wear off: a jeweler can then apply a new one.

Onyx is a hard stone, but its polish can be scratched by harder jewelry, and it does not like acidic products. Store your jewelry separately, in its pouch, and take it off for housework: detergents and vinegar can dull its surface. Even if the metal of your jewelry can handle water, the stone itself prefers a quick clean: wash it in lukewarm, soapy water without letting it soak, rinse in clean water, then dry it with a soft cloth. As a precaution, avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam and high heat. In lithotherapy, it is purified with incense smoke and recharged for a few hours in moonlight, or placed on a quartz cluster or an amethyst geode.

925 silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver. Rhodium plating gives it a shiny finish that limits tarnishing. Designed to be worn every day, with complete peace of mind: our jewelry complies with the European REACH regulations on nickel, lead and cadmium. Each piece is hallmarked and comes with its certificate of authenticity. The hallmarking combines the 925 fineness mark and a sponsor's mark registered in the European Union; only pieces too small to be stamped are exempt.

For you if you like dark greens and geometric shapes, or for someone close to you whose size you don't know. Rhodium-plated 925 silver is hypoallergenic and complies with REACH regulations: it suits most sensitive skin.