How To Choose The Perfect Jewelry For Someone Else

At this time of year, the gift list for family and friends can feel like an insurmountable Everest, especially when it comes to finding the perfect presents for our nearest and dearest. Fine jewelry is an ultra-precious way to show you care, but as something the recipient is likely to wear daily and keep forever, there’s even more pressure to get it just right. Here, PORTER speaks to four fine-jewelry experts, who share their tips on how to choose a piece your loved one will cherish today, tomorrow, and always.

“The best way to choose a meaningful gift for a loved one is to start early,” says jewelry editor and consultant Milena Lazazzera. Taking your time over choosing a gift will allow you to better hone in on what they gravitate towards. “Casually comment on other people’s jewelry to gauge their reactions, and encourage them to share their preferences naturally,” suggests Lazazzera. If you’re a true master of forward-planning, you may even be able to personalize your gift with a custom engraving, perhaps adding a meaningful message, date or symbol to make it even more special.

When it comes to choosing jewelry for someone else, you can never do too much snooping. “Raid their jewelry box and think about what is missing; if their collection is all yellow gold, maybe they need a hint of rose gold,” suggests gemologist and jewelry consultant Elizaveta Yurlasova. It can also help to study their lifestyle – spend a little time getting to know when and where they wear their jewelry. “A glamorous cocktail ring might dazzle, but if they’re more about yoga classes than gala soirées, you need to rethink,” she advises.

“Jewelry is incredibly personal, so it’s important to know the lucky recipient well, and to select according to their taste and style… not yours,” says digital content creator Tracey Ellison. “For example, if they would prefer a smartwatch over a bejeweled timepiece, then that’s the right gift for them,” she advises. “If their personality is larger than life, look for a brand that makes big, bold pieces, such as David Webb. If, however, they lean towards a more classic, timeless look, then brands that focus on traditional diamond designs will be better suited.”

There are several categories of jewelry items that can make gifting a little easier. “Look to the zodiac for jewels that suit their star sign – Aries love bold, statement gems, while Pisces will melt for pearls,” says Yurlasova. If your loved one isn’t the astrology type, consider a piece featuring their birthstone, or a piece with multiple charms or beads that signify an important number. “Another option is to select a piece tied to a special trip – what is their favorite vacation spot?” asks Yurlasova. “Choose something inspired by the ocean, the desert, or the city they love most. Alternatively, pick a design that echoes something from a cherished memory – maybe a flower, a star or an animal, for instance.”

If you’re buying jewelry for someone who has only a small capsule wardrobe of pieces that they wear on repeat, then buying something that takes their collection in a new direction is a great place to start. Of course, it’s important to consider their existing repertoire. “I have always followed Oprah’s advice on gifting: get something that someone already has something of,” suggests gem-buyer and content creator Julia Hackman Chafé. “If they wear a necklace stack daily, choose a chic necklace to add into the mix. If their jewels are loaded with color, opt for rainbow-bright designs.”

“When it comes to watches, you need to establish whether you are growing their collection, or whether this is someone’s first timepiece,” says jewelry and watch consultant Mirta de Gisbert, who explains that many collectors seek vintage watches, whereas new enthusiasts may only want an unworn model. De Gisbert suggests her clients begin by narrowing down the options according to basic design codes. “Do they want a bracelet or a leather strap? Does it need to be waterproof? Is there a certain brand they admire?” she queries. If you are buying for a watch connoisseur, there are still tips and tricks for picking a universally appealing piece. “When choosing the perfect watch, I always go for a vintage 1970s model,” says Melanie Grant, executive director at the Responsible Jewellery Council. “The texture and boldness of brands back then was so fun yet collectible, and if the object of my affection doesn’t wear it, I will!”