Looking to buy jewelry for your partner but not sure where to begin?

Picking out the perfect piece of jewelry for your loved one can be nerve-racking. After all, you want them to actually wear and enjoy it–not put it in a drawer and forget about it.

Here’s the good news:

Buying jewelry for your partner doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, with a little know-how and a few insider tips, anyone can find that perfect piece that makes their other half’s eyes light up.

Let’s break it down:

• Understanding your partner’s style
• Jewelry types that always work
• Getting the right size without ruining the surprise
• Quality vs. budget: what really matters
• Vintage or modern: when to choose each

Understanding Your Partner’s Style

The number one mistake people make when buying jewelry for their partner? Choosing what they like instead of what their other half would actually wear.

Let’s be real…

Your partner is already telling you everything you need to know about their jewelry style. Check out what they already wear on a daily basis. Are they minimalists who only wear one or two pieces? Do they like to layer multiple necklaces? Stack rings?

Take note of the metal type they prefer. Some people only wear gold, while others only wear silver. Metal layering is in style these days, but if your partner clearly favors one type over the other, go with what they like.

But here’s something most people completely miss…

Do they prefer modern, trendy pieces or more timeless, classic styles? If they love vintage, chances are they’d enjoy browsing vintage & estate jewelry in Memphis collections where each piece has its own unique history and character. Vintage pre-owned jewelry often has craftsmanship and designs that are no longer found in modern mass-produced jewelry.

Jewelry Types That Always Work

Some pieces of jewelry are practically gift-proof. They’re the ones that go with a wide variety of outfits and occasions.

The best options are:

• Classic stud earrings
• Simple chain necklaces
• Tennis bracelets
• Stackable rings
• Pendant necklaces

Want to know why they work so well? Versatility. Your partner can wear them to work, on a date night, or just running errands. They’ll complement other jewelry, not compete with it.

According to recent survey data, 58% of women want to receive jewelry as a gift. That’s more than half of women! The key is choosing something that fits their personal style AND their lifestyle.

But what about…

Occupation? Does your partner have a physically active job? Then delicate pieces might not be ideal for everyday wear. Someone who works with their hands all day, for example, may prefer jewelry they can wear 24/7 without worrying about it getting damaged or lost.

Getting the Right Size without Ruining the Surprise

Ring sizing is where most people freak out.

Nobody wants to propose or give an anniversary gift only to find out the ring doesn’t fit. But how do you secretly get sized?

Try these sneaky strategies:

Borrow one of their rings that they wear on the finger you intend to put the new ring on. Bring it to a jeweler to get sized. Just make sure it’s a ring they actually wear–not a random one in the back of their jewelry box that never fit right.

You can also recruit their best friend or family member who may already know their size. Most people have told their ring size to someone they trust at some point.

If all else fails, go with a slightly larger size. It’s much easier to size a ring down than to make it larger. Most jewelers will do free resizing within the first few months of purchase as well.

Quality vs. Budget: What Really Matters

Let’s talk about money.

The jewelry industry has pushed this idea for decades that you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring. But that’s just outdated, antiquated thinking that puts unnecessary pressure on gift-givers.

Here’s the truth:

Quality is far more important than price. A well-made, solid piece that’s in your price range will last way longer than a cheaply made piece at any price point. Look for signs of solid construction: secure clasps, sturdy stone settings, smooth edges, and proper metal stamps that indicate real gold or silver content.

Gold jewelry accounts for 54.9% of the jewelry market, making it the most popular metal choice by far. Gold pieces hold their value and can last generations if cared for properly. But that doesn’t mean silver, platinum, or other metals are bad choices.

Pay attention to these quality clues:

• Secure stone settings that won’t pop out easily
• Smooth edges that won’t snag on clothing
• Sturdy clasps that open and close easily
• Proper hallmarks/stamps that indicate metal purity

Vintage or Modern: When to Choose Each

Modern jewelry provides the latest trends and contemporary designs. Vintage and estate jewelry, on the other hand, offers something entirely different.

Vintage jewelry comes with some serious perks:

Unique. Your partner won’t have to worry about someone else wearing the same necklace as them at a party. Estate jewelry also frequently has superior craftsmanship that came from an era when jewelry was still handmade by skilled artisans.

Cheaper. Estate jewelry is also, by nature of being pre-owned, less expensive than the same style new from a jewelry store. The devaluation has already happened, so there’s more bang for your buck.

Modern jewelry has its place too, of course. Pieces you buy come with warranties and returns are easier. Sizing is more standardized and straightforward. If your partner LOVES being on-trend, modern designs may be better.

Vintage or modern really comes down to your partner’s personality:

Do they appreciate history and one-of-a-kind pieces? Vintage could be the way to go. Do they prefer having the latest styles? Go with contemporary pieces.

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing jewelry for your partner should be exciting, not stressful.

Observe what they already wear and love. Consider their lifestyle and how they’d actually use the jewelry. Set a realistic budget. Focus on quality in that range.

And remember…

The thought behind the gift is far more important than the price tag. A well-chosen piece in their style that fits your budget will ALWAYS trump an expensive piece that clashes with their personal taste.

29% of U.S. jewelry purchases now happen online, giving buyers more options than ever before. Whether you shop in-store or online, take your time browsing different styles and jewelers.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Reputable jewelers LOVE helping customers find the perfect piece. They’ll explain the difference in quality between different pieces and price points, help you narrow down options within your budget, and walk you through exactly what you’re actually buying.

Before you make your purchase, ask yourself:

• Would my partner actually wear this?
• Does it match their existing style?
• Is the quality worth the price?
• Can I return or exchange it if needed?

If you can confidently answer YES to these questions, you’ve found the right piece.

Finding the perfect jewelry piece for your partner doesn’t require a degree in gemology.

It does require you to pay attention to their preferences, know the basics of jewelry quality, and choose a piece that fits their lifestyle. Vintage can be the way to go for unique characters. Modern is great for contemporary style. No matter which direction you choose, the best gift of all is one chosen with thought and care.

Take your time browsing around. Compare different pieces and different jewelers. Trust your gut about what you think your partner will love.

The perfect piece is out there waiting:

• It matches their personal style
• It fits in your budget
• It’s something they’ll treasure for a lifetime

Now get out there and find that perfect piece. Your partner will love that you took the time and effort to choose something special just for them.