Buying Jewelry for Women

Buying Jewelry for Women - Tips for Men

Copyright © 2008 Blue Lily

Buying jewelry for the woman you love can be a double edged sword. Done right, you know it's a romantic, meaningful and in some cases, even magical gesture. On the other hand it can be a daunting, even intimidating process, loaded with unknowns. But with some knowledge, planning, and a little preparation, you can find the perfect gift, and be the hero of the story.

Face it, we're guys and we don't always know exactly what women want. The good news is that thousands of guys survive the jewelry purchasing ordeal daily.

To get this jewelry thing right, you'll need to plan ahead. Waiting until the day before just won't cut it. Here's what you need to know: What are my choices? What does she want? What size? How much should I spend? All good questions.

Zasha White Gold Quilted Maltese Earring Charms


Zasha White Gold Quilted Maltese Earring Charms are made of 14K white gold and 2 diamonds. These are a great addition to any of the Zasha hoops. Zasha's interchangeable hoops and charms allow you to make the most of your jewelry investment. Zasha hoops and charms are completely flexible. You can alternate various charms to complete different looks and moods. The hoops open at the top; just slide the new charm on for a completely new look! Once you own a set of hoops, you can create limitless looks by adding, combining and stacking charms.

Zasha White Gold Quilted Maltese Earring Charms

What are my choices?

Brace yourself, this part is scary. There are enough choices here to make your hair stand on end. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and categories within categories of each. Yellow gold (how many karats?), white gold, two tone, platinum, silver. What about gems? The variety will make your head spin. We'll talk prices later on. Are you OK? Get a grip, there's more.

Zasha Circle Leaf Diamond Pave Pendant


Zasha Circle Leaf Diamond Pave Pendant is beautifully handcrafted with intricate details, 14k yellow gold diamond pave pendant has 12 Diamonds 1/2" in diameter.


Zasha Circle Leaf Diamond Pave Pendant

What does she want?

If this will be a surprise, you certainly can't ask her. But you can ask her mother or sister or her friends. Women do like to talk to each other about these things, so tap into the network. They may have all the information you need. Be sure to tell the ladies if this will be a secret operation.

Other easy techniques involve watching and listening. Watch what she likes to wear. Check out her jewelry box. Are there items that are missing a piece? Does she have a ring or a necklace in a particular gemstone, but no earrings to match? Are the components of her jewelry smaller and lighter, or chunkier? Women can be picky and usually have some specific ideas about what kind of jewelry they want and like. Men can be like that too, about car parts or tools. Pay attention, details matter.

Make a note - when considering gems, real is always better than fake. A small authentic gem is always preferable to a large fake one. Don't believe me? Ask a woman. I didn't say these things always made sense to us guys.

Listen when she hints at what she'd like. Some drop lots of hints. Consider her personality and lifestyle. Is she conservative? Then think about simple, classic jewelry. Is she crafty? Consider something handcrafted and uniquely made with fine materials. Is she frilly and lacy? You get the idea. Which of these styles showed up in her jewelry box?

The next time you visit the mall together, make it a point to visit some jewelry counters. Pay attention to what catches her eye. Remember you're trying to please her, not you.

Rebecca Norman Bubble Cuff


Rebecca Norman Bubble Cuff is a truly unique piece. 18k gold over sterling silver cuff with 5 gems. 2" wide.


Rebecca Norman Bubble Cuff

What size?

Ask her family and friends. Or measure any necklaces, bracelets, anklets, etc. in her jewelry box. Sneak one of her rings to a jewelry store so they can size it. Make notes.


How much should I spend?

This part is actually pretty easy. The more meaningful the occasion, from her perspective, the more you can spend. Therefore every anniversary is important! Spend more for these anniversaries: the first anniversary is very important, then 5th, 10th, 25th, 30th, etc. on these occasions, it's best here to go for a really nice piece of jewelry that conveys the importance of the occasion.

Her first Mother's Day is very important, although you really don't need to go crazy. How about a charm bracelet or a ring with the baby's birthstone? You do have the birthstone list, right?

For most jewelry gifts however, the price tag, while not completely irrelevant, isn't as important as some men may think. To a large degree, it's the thought (and the preparation) that counts as far as women are concerned.

If you're still dating, the general rule is, the value of the gift should be based on the amount of time together. Spend too much and things can get awkward quickly. Too little and you look cheap.

Gerard Yosca Bib Necklace



Gerard Yosca Bib Necklace is an elaborate piece. You can adjust the necklace between 16-18". Gold plated and beautiful bead work.


Gerard Yosca Bib Necklace

Do some homework

Surf the Web. Learn about jewelry, the metals, the gems, both real and otherwise. What are prices like? Who are the retailers in your area or online? Find a list of birthstones. Make more notes.

This info will be useful for purchases in the future. You'll need to be up to speed on this stuff before you're ready to purchase anything. When the time comes to visit a jeweler, the knowledge you gain will make the visit a comfortable experience. The results will speak for themselves. The goal here is to make a thoughtful, personal purchase. The last thing you need is a ring that turns her finger green. Learn about jewelry quality. It will save you a ton of grief.


Shop (as in shopping)

I know this doesn't come naturally to most guys. We avoid it like the plague. Guys typically know what we want before we hit the store, march in, compare 2 or 3 items, march to the register and we're out the door. Men buy, women shop. But you'll have to do at least a little shopping this time. You need the right gift, but there's no sense mortgaging the house to get it. Whether you buy online or in a brick and mortar store, be sure you read the return/refund policy. After the prep you've done, it shouldn't be needed, but better to be safe. Finally, buy from an established company. You need to know they'll be there for you later on.

Zasha Stone Heart Diamond Pave Earring Charms


Zasha Stone Heart Diamond Pave Earring Charms are a great addition to any of the Zasha hoops. Zasha’s interchangeable hoops and charms allow you to make the most of your jewelry investment. Zasha hoops and charms are completely flexible. You can alternate various charms to complete different looks and moods. The hoops open at the top; just slide the new charm on for a completely new look! Once you own a set of hoops, you can create limitless looks by adding, combining and stacking charms.14k yellow gold, 12x9mm, 20 diamonds, 0.20 tcw and 2 white topaz 5x5mm. Size: 0.35" W x 0.47" H


Zasha Stone Heart Diamond Pave Earring Charms

Giving

Before you give her the gift, remember why you've gone through all this. You want the gift to help express some emotion to the woman you love. You can maximize the impact by considering exactly how to give it to her. Should it be a romantic setting? Or as an unexpected surprise? Don't be afraid to be original. Do this part right and she'll remember it for a long, long time.


About The Author:

Blue Lily creates unique and beautiful handcrafted jewelry from the finest of materials. Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, anklets and more. All offer an understated elegance and a sophisticated look. Each piece a delight to give and receive. See her Studio at www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5200713

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