“Make jewelry a gem of a gift”

Posted: 10 Feb 2011 04:40 AM PST

Make jewelry a gem of a gift

Jewelry tops the list of desired Valentine's Day presents. According to U.S. Census studies, jewelry stores in the United States sell approximately $2 million in merchandise every Valentine's Day. Each year leading up to February 14th, jewelry manufacturers overload the airwaves and department store advertisements with the musthave jewelry trends of the season.

Many women welcome the gift of jewelry, but prefer jewelry that's unique. Jewelry presents should be as unique as their recipient. But being personal, unique and ensuring your jewelry piece will be worn takes a little effort. Consider these pointers.

Think beyond the diamond: Many guys feel pressured to purchase diamond jewelry. The fact is, not all women feel compelled to wear diamonds. It may be more meaningful if you gift her with her birthstone, a favorite gem or even a simple piece of gold. It all depends on her personality. Notice what type of jewelry she tends to wear and her color preferences. Figure out if she has her heart set on a particular piece.

Buck the trends:Avoid the marketed gift of the year. While it may work for footwear, jewelry, like fragrances, is more personal. A one-style-fitsall gift simply may not work here. Again, think about her style and personality and use that as a guide for jewelry purchases. * New is not necessarily better: Some women adore antique pieces. A passed-down cameo pendant that your grandmother once wore may offer more implied meaning than that new necklace fresh off of the display case.

Personalize your pieces: Think about pieces that have unique meaning. Does she collect pearls? How about a charm bracelet that can be augmented each year? Even having a pendant engraved with a touching sentiment can be the way to ensure her gift is one-of-a-kind.

Go with what works: If she's a stud earring sort of gal, gift her with a new pair. Now is not the time to try out what you believe to be new and exciting.

A woman can never have enough of her favorite type of jewelry.

Birthstones:

January — Gamet
February — Amethyst
March — Aquamarine
April — Diamond
May — Emerald
June — Pearl
July — Ruby
August — Peridot
September — Sapphire
October — Opal
November — Topaz
December — Turquoise

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