If you're like most men, Valentine jewelry shopping for your girl can be a frustrating experience. What does she like? Where can you get it? How do you know that what you're buying is the right one? There are so many questions to ponder and there seems to be no straight answers especially if your mission is to buy engagement rings.
Don't worry. There's no shame in getting a bit confused. In fact, majority of men find jewelry shopping a bit of a challenge.
Your pre-Valentine jewelry excursion need not be a disaster. Here are some signposts to point you in the right direction:
Do some recon first: figure out what she likes.
Just because it's expensive, and within the latest fashion trend, doesn't mean she will wear it. Some women like small and subtle accessories; other go for the loud, huge and flamboyant. Some women like things formal and classy; others a bit experimental and playful. And then there are preferences for particular materials. There are gold lovers, silver lovers and copper lovers. There are women with long-standing love affairs with certain stones.
How to know what she likes? Don't rely on the store owner; he doesn't know your girl! Start by checking out what she wears often. Raid her jewelry box. Snap a picture of her typical get-up complete with all the adornments and shows a copy to the saleslady. You can also ask her fashion-savvy best friend. If you can pull it off, accompany her as she window shops and observe what gems she gravitates to.
Select a design: hearts or not?
Hearts are common this time of the year and they are always a good choice. They fit the occasion and they can be worn across seasons. A heart also symbolizes the feeling that goes with the gift. By choosing heart-shaped jewelry, you are sending your message of affection loud and clear.
But note that you are not obliged to choose a heart shaped jewelry just because it's Valentines Day. Also, some women are not keen on wearing anything with hearts in them. If your girl is like that, scrap the idea. Valentine gem gifting rules are flexible; you don't have to stay with the motif.
You can pick something that is practical, one she can wear regularly to work like a reliable pair of silver earrings. You can go for something that symbolizes her personality like a violin pendant if she plays the instrument. You can choose a design that tells a story about the relationship you two have, like journey pendants with engraved initials. There are many possible options available.
Canvass.
You don't have to buy from the first store that you find. The more stores you check out, the better are your chances of finding something that's a good match to her taste (and your wallet!). It's always a good idea to shop ahead of time; it gives you the liberty to be choosy.
Don't limit yourself to the typical stall in the mall. Find a vintage shop, browse online or look for those small family-based businesses that make custom jewelry setting an art form. If you're on a budget, check out the local pawnshop. You can also check if family heirlooms can be resized or modernized.
Wherever you buy, make sure that your purchase has a certification of authenticity. This will help ensure that what you are spending your hard-earned cash on is the real deal.
Leave her have the choice.
Now if the shopping really has you stumped, here's an idea: why don't you just let her choose? Depending on how you package it, making them pick what they like can still be really romantic. If you're worried about revealing your budget, befriend the store owner beforehand. Give your range and have him prepare a selection for your girl that she can view in a private room. It's actually romantic for the two of you to choose together.
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