For The Men: Top ten tips for purchasing jewelry for that special someone.

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Someone once said, "Diamonds are a girl's best friend." While that may be true, a more broad fact makes it easier on you guys to find something fabulous to woo and impress that special lady in your life - almost women love jewelry. Here are 10 tips for helping you as you purchase the perfect gift for the love of your life.

1. Stay away from rings - I start with this one because it's oh so very important. Guys, do not, repeat, do NOT purchase your special lady a ring unless: a) you're already married to her or b) you are planning on getting married to her. Plain and simple... those little boxes being handed over to us by our men mean only one thing. Permanent. Enough said.

2. Study your girl - Yeah, I know guys. This means you're going to have to work, but only just a little. Take some time prior to your shopping spree to really study what your lady wears jewelry wise. Notice if it's gold or silver or if she stays away from metal all together. Get a feel for what you enjoy seeing her wearing as far as her current jewelry. Drop a comment on what she's wearing to get her reaction ("oh this old thing? I got this necklace when I was in high school but it's the only thing that matches this shirt. I really should get something else to go with it") Hint... after that discussion take a second and jot yourself a note - "buy something to match the pink shirt she had on". Don't worry - jewelry salespeople get paid to help you actually figure out what might match.

3. Match an outfit - Taking the whole matching thing another step, the next time she walks into a room and you think to yourself, "oh my, she looks fabulous in that dress" or whatever, make sure to be on the lookout for a piece of jewelry that matches that outfit particularly. With a lovely bracelet or necklace that goes perfectly with the ensemble, she'll wear it more often and you'll be able to enjoy that fabulousness again and again.


4. Match YOUR outfit - Still stuck or think she looks stunning in everything she owns and you don't want to break the bank? Then YOU wear an outfit that she's particularly fond of and purchase a piece that would look good with that! I know it sounds silly but it works and she'll have an excuse to go shopping and buy and outfit to match the jewelry you just got her - and she'll be doubly happy!

5. Match her eyes - One more matching thing - if you're completely matching challenged, just be on the lookout for (or talk to the sales rep to help you find) something that matches your girl's eyes. Why? Because ...

6. It's better with meaning - If you can attach a sentimental meaning to the jewelry you select, i.e., "I got this necklace because the colors of the stones match your eyes" you'll score points big time. One of my favorite pieces of jewelry that I received from my husband is one where he specifically wrote out what each stone in the ring (yes we were already married so it was ok) symbolized. It was beautiful - and the ring is too.

7. Sets make your job easier - Here's a little bonus tip. Purchase your jewelry in sets - necklace, earring and bracelet and then give each piece for a separate occasion. That helps to give it meaning and helps you out with three gifts or events in one!

8. Size is everything - When you're studying your lady, make sure you take note of the size of most of her jewelry. Girls who usually wear smaller pendants on their necklaces or simple bracelets probably wouldn't appreciate a huge bangle bracelet or a necklace with a globe hanging off the end. On the other hand, some gals really like big, bold jewelry, so you'll want to look for something along those lines if that's what your lady prefers.

9. It's all in the presentation - If your jewelry sales person offers wrapping, take her up on it, even if it costs a few extra dollars. A special box can often mean almost as much as what's inside for some ladies. And most girls love having a chance to rip open a wrapped package - especially when it's from her special man!

10. Personalize for success - I end with a suggestion and a caution. Personalized jewelry is almost always a hit with any woman. Monogrammed products are super popular right now and can be purchased online or offline at most retailers. Just keep in mind that unless you plan on getting on one knee in the near future, stay away from personalized items that include your name as well as hers.

So put on your study glasses and get busy. And buy your special lady a gift that will touch her heart today!

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