Buying jewellery as a gift

How do you make the best choices when choosing a jewellery gift?

Buying jewellery for a loved one may feel like walking through a minefield; especially if you want to add the element of surprise. It can seem daunting at first but you will make the choice so much easier if you run through a few simple steps.

A subtle approach will point you in the right direction.

• Have a clear idea in your mind of what you are looking for before you embark on your shopping expedition and, remember, this isn’t about you, so try not to shop for yourself.

• Easy jewellery buys should be in the lower price range. Be clear about your budget with the salesperson from the outset and ask to see the items in that range. This will narrow the choices and it helps to not cloud your judgement.

• Colour: so many aspects of jewellery comprise of colour.Are you looking for a piece in white metal or yellow or red? A quick peek in the jewellery box at home will give you a clear idea of what already appears in the collection. The choice of stone colour or a combination of stones can be a bit trickier and carries a little more sentimental value. Window shopping together is a sure way of ticking off an item on the wish list. And, of course, when it comes to earrings, the colour choice should always pick up on your loved one’s eyes.

• Feeling challenged when it comes to jewellery terms? Don’t be. Use straightforward communication with the salesperson. Use words you are comfortable with to describe the proportions and type of piece you are looking for. This way you will eliminate the guess work for the salesperson and put you both at ease. Then you can settle down together to decide on the perfect piece.

Finally remember that we all actually still love the simple things in life: a bunch of hand-picked wild flowers, a short message to say, “Enjoy your day”, or even a chocolate on our pillow.