Jewelry makes a lasting gift, but it’s easy to get the size, style or metal wrong. A little homework helps.
What to remember
- Look at what the person already wears: metal color, size of pieces and everyday style.
- Check quality marks, such as 14K or 925, and look for a company trademark next to the mark.
- The FTC advises getting the seller’s return terms in writing before you buy.
- Ask whether gemstones are natural, lab-grown or treated, and get it written on the receipt.
Jewelry is one of the most personal gifts you can give, which is exactly why it’s easy to get wrong. A few steps before you buy make a big difference.
Work out their style
Spend a week or two noticing what the person wears:
- Metal color: yellow gold, white metals, rose gold or a mix?
- Scale: small and delicate, or bold?
- Type: do they wear earrings every day, or mostly necklaces and rings?
- Sensitivities: do any metals irritate their skin?
Get the size right
Necklaces and earrings rarely need sizing, which makes them safer surprise gifts. For bracelets, adjustable or slightly longer chains are forgiving. For rings, see our guide to finding a ring size, and choose a seller who offers resizing or exchanges.
Check quality and markings
| What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Karat or fineness mark, such as 14K or 925 | Tells you the metal content |
| Company trademark next to the mark | The FTC advises not buying gold without one |
| Plating terms, such as gold filled or vermeil | Not the same as solid gold |
| Gemstone details | Natural, lab-grown, imitation or treated |
Our guide to gold karats explains the markings in more detail.
Buying tip: Ask for a gift receipt as well as a full receipt. The recipient can exchange the piece without seeing the price, and you keep the details you need for insurance or repairs.
Protect yourself as a buyer
The Federal Trade Commission recommends getting the seller’s return terms in writing before you buy, checking the seller’s reputation by searching their name with words like “complaint” or “review,” and asking friends for recommendations. If something goes wrong, contact the seller first, then report it to the FTC or your state attorney general if it isn’t resolved.
Before you buy: Be cautious of prices that seem far below what similar pieces cost elsewhere, and of sellers who won’t put details in writing.
Add the finishing touch
Presentation matters with jewelry. A good box, a handwritten card and, for milestones, a theme from our anniversary gift guide make the gift feel complete.
Common jewelry questions
Should I buy a ring as a surprise?
Rings are the hardest jewelry to buy as a surprise because of sizing. A necklace, bracelet with an adjustable clasp or earrings is a safer choice if you can’t confirm the size.
Is an appraisal worth it?
For valuable pieces, an independent appraisal is useful for insurance. Choose an appraiser who isn’t connected to the seller.
What should the receipt say?
The metal and its karat or fineness, any gemstones and whether they’re natural, lab-grown or treated, the price and the return or exchange terms.