Who doesn’t like a thoughtful and meaningful present? And like any good gift guide would suggest, few things are as memorable as gifting jewellery to that special someone in your life. There is indeed a correlation between the amount of time and thought one spends when choosing jewellery as a gift. That’s because the memory and sentimental value attached to that gift will last – just like the jewel – for a lifetime, especially when connected with a festive holiday or occasion.
Speaking for myself, I can definitely say that on a handful of occasions, I received gifts that had zero relevance to my sense of style or personal taste. But I must also take the blame for being a sloppy gifter in many instances, either for not thinking the gift ideas through or just going for the first thing from my list of last-minute options.
My best friend once told me that gifting is an art that spreads love between people. That resonated with me, and I realised that all the gifts that sparked joy in me (Marie Kondo’s kind of joy) were well-thought-through items that complemented my style and personality. She surely practises what she preaches, and I can confidently report that she has never failed me with any jewellery gift or other present I got from her. In fact, she endeavours to consistently outdo herself, therefore making my life more difficult!
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN GIFTING JEWELLERY
Ok, so this is where I talk about jewellery. Need I explain why jewellery is important, why it makes such an excellent gift for any woman, how precious metals and gemstones live forever and can be passed on…and all that jazz?
However, there are many potential pitfalls when choosing jewellery gifts for women especially as, in my experience, men tend to be less fussy.
Here are a few things you need to consider before you gift jewellery to that lucky someone:
- PERSONAL STYLE
Ask yourself, what jewellery does the recipient in question already wear? Do they usually opt for big designs and bold colours or understated classics and intricate details? Are they a ring or a necklace person? Would they wear a yellow gold diamond ring, or would they be happier with a more casual trinket?
- METAL TYPE
Notice whether the person prefers one metal type over another. This could indicate a metal colour preference or perhaps a skin sensitivity, which would be a deciding factor when choosing your present, especially if they’re allergic to nickel. Sterling silver or gold jewellery are among the safest options in these cases. - SIZING
Even the most beautiful piece of fine jewellery can’t save that embarrassing and awkward moment when the diamond ring doesn’t fit, or the bangle bracelets fall off her wrist. Correct sizing is a major factor when choosing the perfect jewellery gift and paramount to thoughtful gift-giving. It shows that you care enough about them to have spent time researching their size and selecting a piece that fits them perfectly (bye-bye returns!). - IS THERE A PARTICULAR MEANING TO YOUR JEWELLERY GIFT?
Jewels can represent our feelings and the cherished relationships we hold with loved ones. Personalising our gifts to evoke this connection through gems and custom details is the ultimate thoughtful touch. Think diamonds for engagement rings, birthstones for friendship jewellery, an inscribed mother-daughter necklace or a photo locket. Then add luxurious gift wrap and similar touches to make your gift extra special.
JEWELLERY GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERYONE YOU LOVE
Even when you have all the above details laid out, finding that perfect piece for your special someone without any external inspiration can be somewhat daunting. Here’s a quick list of jewellery gift ideas I came up with while being thoughtful of varying tastes and preferences. These are all brands and jewellery creations which I personally love and have either received or gifted to others.
I also have some pressie ideas for the guys (trying to be inclusive and all!) so let’s jump into it!
CHANEL ANYTIME - FOR THE CLASSIC AND SOPHISTICATED
One thing I believe to be true for any woman, is that, no matter how tomboyish or superhero a lifestyle she may lead, there will always be that occasion when she needs to dress up and put on a pair of pearl earrings or a statement bracelet to feel a bit more special. Chanel has a huuuge variety of jewellery options, from gold earrings and cuff bracelets to elegant necklaces and rings.
You can never go wrong with a pair of classic CC stud earrings or a Coco Chanel-style pearl necklace. All of the brand’s designs are synonymous with timeless and sophisticated style, especially their 1950s vintage pieces.
VINTAGE JEWELLERY - FOR THE ECO-CONSCIOUS AND NOSTALGIC
There is something about vintage and old jewels that is so magical and intriguing. For the sustainability-focused ones who long for the good ol’ chic and suave days, vintage is a very appropriate choice with a wide variety in historical period trends and price points.
Depending on where you are in the world, there are many places you can score interesting jewellery gifts with curious stories for that style time traveller in your life.
These include flea markets, antique jewellery shops, vintage dealers, and auction houses.
Or you can skip all the above trips and head to YazJewels for the chicest selection of vintage fine and costume jewellery from eras past.
LIZZIE FORTUNATO FASHION JEWELLERY - FOR THE BOLD AND ADVENTUROUS
Lizzie Fortunato is a sustainable jewellery brand founded by twin sisters who create unique and modern accessories using unconventional materials. Their designs usually feature a lot of colour and are beautifully crafted to resemble art objects.
Gifting jewellery that’s so unusual and quirky is a surefire way to make your present memorable. I love their bold and playful collections and the fact that they expanded their line to bags, scarves, and home accessories.
MARLA AARON - FOR THE CREATIVE AND 'WEAR IT EVERY DAY, EVEN IN THE SHOWER' ONES
Inspired by industrial locks and screws, Marla Aaron creates jewellery locks of different shapes, sizes, and metals by hand in her New York atelier.
Her pieces allow for charm attachment, layering, interchangeable styling, and all sorts of playing around, making them the perfect gift for that creative friend with an individual style.
The locks are unisex, have different price points, and you can engrave special messages on them (or inside them sometimes) – so romantic!
Marla is also very witty and funny, so make sure you follow her Instagram page to get a taste of her brilliant sense of sarcastic humour.
AZZA FAHMY - FOR THE HARD TO PLEASE
Azza Fahmy is an iconic Egyptian jewellery designer who revolutionised the way silver is perceived and appreciated in the realm of metal jewellery. Her collections revolve around Middle Eastern heritage, poetry, Arabic calligraphy and folk culture, defined by meticulous craftsmanship and often adorned with precious and semi-precious gemstones.
You can shop for her jewellery online or from the many stockists and boutiques worldwide, including a beautiful flagship store in Burlington Arcade in London (a personal favourite of mine).
TATEOSSIAN CUFFLINKS AND BRACELETS - FOR THE COOL BOYS
My husband discovered Tateossian online when searching for a men’s bracelet that was sophisticated yet cool enough to go from suit to loungewear. The brand has a vast collection of unique, playful, and unusual men’s accessories that are sure to satisfy any taste and style.
They have some perfect holiday gifts for that special man in your life who deserves a bit of luxury and glamour!
So that’s my two cents on the art of gifting jewellery and making it a memorable present to be cherished for all time.
I hope that you get spoiled with marvellous pressies and surprises this upcoming holiday season, and that you likewise spread love and joy amongst your loved ones with thoughtful offerings.
Til next time, happy gift-hunting!
Yaz X
P.S. All the brands featured in this blog are not paid endorsements; they are simply brands that I love and appreciate.