Tips for Men Buying Jewelry for Women

Buying jewelry as a gift for your wife, girlfriend or significant other is one of the most thoughtful, meaningful and romantic gestures you can ever make. Few items can express your lasting love and devotion like a special ring, necklace, bracelet or pair of earrings. Jewelry's magic, mystique and enduring appeal make it a natural gift for special occasions and milestone events in her life.

But if you're like most guys, you probably know as much about buying jewelry as you do about brain surgery or rocket science. The good news is that shopping for an appropriate piece of jewelry for your special someone doesn't have to be an agonizing experience. Here are some basic tips to help you make the right buying decision:

Look in her jewelry box
You can learn a lot about the kind of jewelry she likes by seeing what she already wears. You'll get clues about her individual style, her favorite gems, and what may be missing from her jewelry wardrobe. You can also gauge things like her ring size and the necklace length she prefers. For instance, if she already owns a cherished pearl necklace, she's sure to love a matching pair of pearl earrings.

Consider her lifestyle and personality
If your wife or girlfriend is a hopeless romantic, it's a good bet that she'd like a heart-shaped pendant. If she's a conservative, casual type, stick to classic, everyday gold or diamond pieces like basic hoop earrings, diamond stud earrings, or link chains. You can also get charms representing virtually every profession, hobby or activity under the sun. But in general, remember that it's safer to stay away from cutting-edge designs or glitzy pieces that would only be appropriate for a night on the town unless you're absolutely sure she'd like them.

Ask around
Her mother, sister or best friend could definitely point you in the right direction about her jewelry needs and desires. If you'd prefer a more expert opinion, find out where she shops, and talk to her jeweler about what she's bought recently and what she's been looking at. And of course, you can go directly at the source. Next time you're at the mall together, buzz by some jewelry counters and take note of what catches her eye.

Do your homework
Nothing would be more embarrassing than buying your significant other a birthstone ring with the wrong birthstone! Make sure you know all the important dates in her life! Also, you certainly wouldn't want to buy her a bracelet with a clasp that breaks the first time she wears it, or a ring that turns her finger green. Educate yourself about jewelry quality.

Last but certainly not least remember that jewelry is an emotional purchase. Maximize the impact of your gift by giving it to her in a romantic setting or in an unexpected way. The key is to be original, and you'll create a memory that she'll cherish forever.