For a lot of guys, jewelry shopping ranks a bit lower on the torture scale than, say, the medieval rack. Questions concerning preference, quality and quantity are but some of the mind-busters that plague the minds of guys during these times. And no matter whom you ask, there seems to be no straight answer!

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 your homework, and find out her preferences:

It doesn’t mean that because it’s the latest fashion trend and it’s mighty expensive your girl will adore it. There are some women who prefer small and subtle baubles; there are others who go for huge and flashy ones. There are some women who prefer the more reserved and elegant; there are others who go for daring and playful ones. Still, there are others whose preferences include materials. Some love gold, others silver. There are even a number of women who are obsessed over specific stones.

There are so many ways to find out what she likes. Don’t call it snooping, call it investigative searching. Look through her jewelry box, drop a few hints, or if you’re really desperate, call up her friends. Maybe you can take her “window-shopping” for jewelry and see which ones bring a similar shine to her eyes.

Select a design: hearts or not?

Hearts can be commonly found on Valentines Day and it is a surefire choice. It perfectly conforms to the occasion, plus it can be worn all-year round. The heart also signifies the emotion being felt along with the gift. By picking out a heart-shaped jewel, you are clearly sending out your message of love.

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 jewelry gifting rules are flexible; you don’t have to stay with the motif.

You can always choose some other design to make your jewelry unique and special. If your girl is the practical type, then small, sturdy silver earrings can work out fine. If she’s flashy, dangling earrings are the ones for you. You can also opt to make jewelry that is specific for the two of you, for example, if you’re both into sports, a charm full of different kinds of sports equipment or something along those lines.

Canvass.

It’s not a must to buy jewelry on the first store that you enter. By checking out other stores, you have better chances to discover great items that suit her tastes and also your wallet. It’s wise to start shopping early as it gives you the freedom to choose.

Be limitless and don’t just settle for shops in the malls. Go and search for antique shops, shop online, or look for family-owned establishments that create custom-made jewelry settings and art forms. While being on a budget, you can easily check out pawnshops as well. Try checking for family heirlooms to be resized or remodeled, as well.

Just remember that, wherever you buy your jewelry, you make sure to ask for a certificate of authenticity. At least then, you’ll know you’ll be spending your hard-earned cash on something worthwhile!

Give her the choice.

If jewelry shopping has already left you perplexed, this one’s for you: leave her to choose the jewelry she likes. Making her pick out what she likes is still as romantic.

Here’s a tip: Befriend the jeweler or shop owner before hand, and let him know your price range. That way, he can arrange a private viewing of the jewels that fit that range for you and your lady. And if you think about it, you, your girl, and a nice, quiet, cool room filled with sparkling jewelry and other baubles does seem romantic, don’t you think?

Tags: Relationship Advice

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