Buying Jewellery As A Gift

Swarovski crystal heart earrings on sterling silver earwires.

When you are considering buying jewellery as a gift, much depends on the type of person the recipient is. If it is someone you know well, then the chances are you will know their preferred colours, styles etc, so you may find it quite easy to select a piece of jewellery for them.

However, if you are unsure of what the recipient would really like, it is probably best to select something that is quite simple in design in a more neutral and muted colour such as the paler greens, soft pinks or smokey grey, which includes gemstones such as Rose Quartz, Smokey Quartz, Jade, Prehnite and Quartz crystal. Although purple is quite a strong colour, most people do like Amethyst, so this too would be a good choice.

Keep to fairly simple, uncomplicated designs, as the more complex designs can be a matter of personal preference, not suited to everyone.

Generally speaking, necklaces tend to be fairly standard sizes, although if you are choosing jewellery for a fuller figured lady, you will need to take into account the finished piece of the necklace and will need to allow for a longer length. A standard necklace size is usually around 18 inches.

When choosing a bracelet, if the design fastens with any sort of clasp, you will need to have a reasonable idea of the recipients wrist size, or ensure that the bracelet is fitted with an extender chain, allowing it to fit larger sizes. The average bracelet size tends to be 7 1/2 - 8 inches. Another option is to choose a design that is made from jewellers elastic, allowing it to stretch onto the wrist and fitting quite a range of sizes. Another popular option is memory wire, which coils around the wrist. This is also a better option if your recipient has any sort of dexterity problems as there are no clasps to worry about.

When choosing earrings, it is always a better option to choose earwires that are made of sterling silver, as opposed to plated metals. The design is very much down to personal preference, but if you are unsure, it is better to play safe and choose a relatively simple design, rather than large, fussy designs. I would highly recommend something like a pair of Swarovski crystal heart earrings if you are at all unsure, these have good all round appeal and what lady doesn't like sparkle?

Make sure you choose a gift wrap option if not wrapping the jewellery yourself, it gives a lovely finishing touch and makes the recipient feel pampered and special, like you have really taken care over the gift.