Crossword Genius

It's a stone ring, chum (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

opal

'it's a stone' is the definition.
(gemstone)

'ring chum' is the wordplay.
'ring' becomes 'O' (O is the shape of a ring).
'chum' becomes 'pal' (both can mean a friend).
'o'+'pal'='OPAL'

(Other definitions for opal that I've seen before include "Semi-precious stone of milky or bluish colour" , "National gemstone of Australia" , "Birthstone for October" , "Variegated gemstone" , "Many-coloured gem" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app