Jewellery is always a great option when searching for a gift, accessorising an outfit, or commemorating a moment. As both a fashionable item and a precious keepsake, jewellery has existed for hundreds of years as a decorative adornment, a show of wealth, and a gift of love. Here is what you need to know before buying jewellery:

1) The Recipient

If you are buying jewellery for yourself, then your decisions will be much simpler, but when purchasing jewellery for others, there is a bit more to consider. With different kinds of jewellery out there, what would the recipient usually wear? Do they have their ears pierced? If you are buying earrings, you need to know that some people are allergic to certain metals. For rings, you will need their ring size, especially if its for a particular finger! Bracelets are easier, but necklaces are probably the easiest option if you can’t work out sizes, as they are often one-size-fits-all. Knowing the person well will also help you when choosing between gold and silver, and the general style of jewellery.

Perfect Jewellery

2) The Quality

Whilst everyone has a different budget, the price of the item can sometimes affect the quality, but this doesn’t mean that the more expensive an item is, the better. Make sure your jewellery can be valued or appraised so you know the quality of the metals and the stones. All UK jewellery should be hallmarked legally, so this is an easy check you can do.

Cheap high-street store jewellery may tarnish or drop the stones, whereas higher quality crafted items could last hundreds of years. You can also find vintage jewellery in antique stores if you are looking for something unique or in a vintage style, but well-known jewellers are a great place to look for assurance of quality.

3) The Message

Possibly the most important thing to consider is the message you want to convey with your jewellery. If it is to mark an important event or anniversary, then you want a unique and meaningful gift. Firstly, consider the recipient’s personal taste: Do they prefer simple, sleek and elegant? Bold and lavishly adorned? Unique, chunky and colourful? You know them best, so really take in their personality, fashion tastes, and what jewellery they would usually wear.

To commemorate an important occasion, it can be easy to search for these keywords and find the appropriate gifts. It is also good to look for certain designers and brands that they may already follow and love. For more unique items, look for designers with a key style or signature collection. For example, jewellers ‘Annoushka’ have 18ct goldCrown rings, with this crown design being part of their unique design concept.

A unique and well-designed item can make the gift more treasured and memorable, so do your best to choose something they will love, rather than going for the first thing you find. It can take some time searching to find what you are looking for in the right price range and style, but a meaningful gift is much more precious when you make that effort. No matter what you choose, the message will still get across and your recipient will feel grateful – after all, it’s the thought that counts!