Jewelry Buyer’s Guide

RINGS

WHY GIVE A RING?

Non-bridal fashion rings are the ultimate expression of a wearer's personality. There are so many styles available, and a rainbow of gemstones to choose from, that you can easily find a ring that will perfectly express the wearer's style and individuality. Of course, bridal rings are the ultimate expression of everlasting love and commitment, and anniversary rings symbolize that the two of you would marry all over again.

COMMON RING SETTINGS

Ballerina - Center stone surrounded by baguettes (small rectangular stones) set side by side in a pattern suggesting a ballerina's tutu.
Bar - A line of stones are set together, separated by a thin bar between each adjoining stone that holds them in place.
Bezel - Top of the mounting has been pressed over the edge of the stone, completely surrounding it with a continuous metal rim.
Channel - A series of small stones are tightly nestled next to one another in a groove, or channel.
Cluster - Several smaller stones are set close together (sometimes surrounding a larger center stone) to create the illusion of one big stone.
Flush - The stone is sunk into a mounting until it is nearly level with the surface, to provide additional protection for larger stones.
Gypsy - Often used in men's rings. The band is one continuous piece that gets thicker at the top. The top is shaped like a dome, with no prongs and the stone is set in the middle.
Illusion - A narrow ring of metal surrounds the girdle (outer edge) of a stone, softening its outline and making the stone appear larger.
Invisible - A technique of setting stones close together, often in rows, with the metal that holds them in place hidden underneath. Gives heightened brilliance and a "floating" appearance.
Pavé - Many tiny stones set together as closely as possible, to provide a uniform, glittering surface.
Prong - Most popular setting for engagement rings and larger stones. Usually consists of four, five or six prongs, or claws, evenly spaced around a stone to secure it in the mounting.
Tension - Stone is held in place by pressure applied on both sides by the ring itself, creating the illusion that the stone is floating in space.

BUYING TIPS FOR DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Know the "Four C's" of diamond quality before shopping.
Know her ring size ahead of time.
Buy the best quality ring you can afford. Sometimes, a slightly smaller, higher quality diamond is a better value than a larger stone of lesser quality.
Don't skimp to save money – an engagement ring is for a lifetime, and isn't she worth it? If you go for a cheaper stone than you could've afforded, you'll be kicking yourself every time you look at it. On the other hand, sometimes it's worth it to go up a little over your budget to get the perfect ring. Many jewelers, including Diamonds International, offer a range of payment options, including credit cards and layaway plans.

BUYING TIPS FOR FASHION (NON-BRIDAL) RINGS

Know her ring size ahead of time.
Consider what she already owns – What are her favorite gemstones? What type of metal does she prefer (white or yellow gold, sterling silver, platinum)? What kind of jewelry does she already wear? Take note of the style she likes. Is there anything she doesn't have that she could use? A matching ring to go with a cherished set of earrings would make an ideal gift.

BODY TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

If you have long, slender hands and fingers, wider bands will look especially good on you.
Larger jewelry stones and styles always look better on bigger hands.
For short fingers and small hands, thinner bands and more petite styling works best. In terms of gem shapes, marquise, pear and other cuts that elongate the hand would be a good choice.

SKIN TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

Blue gemstone rings (such as sapphire) work particularly well with blonde hair.
Green gemstone rings (such as emerald) work particularly well with red hair.
"Warm" colors like yellow gold, pearls and earth tone gemstones, and sparkling gems like diamonds, work especially well with darker skin and hair.
White gold, sterling silver and platinum work well with lighter/fair skin tones, as do pink, red and purple gemstones.

EARRINGS

WHY GIVE EARRINGS?

Earrings are a fashion staple for women. Most own multiple pairs, to match different outfits, different times of the day, and even different jewelry (such as a matching necklace and earrings). The styles and sizes available are limitless - and they come in a wide range of prices. A woman can never have too many earrings in her jewelry wardrobe!

BUYING TIPS FOR EARRINGS

There are earrings for casual/everyday wear, earrings for work/business wear and earrings for evening/special occasion. Know what type of earrings the wearer needs ahead of time.
Look to match earring styles and colors to the recipient's tastes and needs. Also, look for opportunities to add matching earrings to jewelry she already owns.
For someone with an active, athletic lifestyle, shorter earring styles are ideal. Long drop earrings or chandeliers may not be the best choice because they can get in the way or get caught on something.

BODY TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

Triangular Face – Avoid earrings that come to a point, as they will call attention to a pointy chin. Instead, opt for small circular, large oval or long earrings to soften the planes of the face. Earrings that flare at the bottom and are curvy also work well.
Oval Face – Wear earrings that widen and balance the face, such as hoops, large ovals or three-dimensional puffed earrings. Avoid long, narrow dangling earrings that can create a too-long look. With shorter hair, pearl studs and round gem earrings work well.
Long/Thin Face – Wear circular, triangular (with the point up) or square earrings to visually widen the face. Three-dimensional earrings also are effective, as they add fullness. Avoid flat or dangle earrings.
Large Face – Wear large earrings to balance out the shape of the face – long earrings, big earrings with a large flare at the bottom and large oval shapes all work. Flat earrings are better than three-dimensional. Avoid hoops, circular and short triangle earrings.
Round Face – Wear big earrings to bring balance to the shape of the face. Angular earrings can create an especially dramatic look. Wide dangling earrings also work. Any style that lengthens the appearance of the face is effective. Avoid tiny earrings.

COMMON EARRING STYLES

Ball – Round, ball-shaped earrings that fit close to the ear.
Button – Flat, button-shaped earrings that fit close to the ear.
Chandelier – Long, oversized earrings that dangle with multiple large stones, typically in an intricate, elaborate design.
Cluster – A group of gemstones tightly packed together to form a single unit.
Dangle – Earring that flows from the bottoms of the earlobes in various lengths.
Door Knocker – Hoops attached to a clip.
Drop – Dangle type earring, typically with a round gemstone or ball at the end.
Hoop – Circular or semi-circular earrings, often constructed of hollow metal tubing, and attached to the ear via several types of backs.
Hinged Hoop – Two half-hoops interlocked and hinged at the bottom, with a pin at the top of one half that perforates the ear and locks into the other half. Often referred to as "Huggies" because they "hug" the earlobe.
Stud – Single stone attached to the end of a post, which goes through the ear and is held in place by a nut, or clutch.

COMMON EARRING BACKS

Post – A thin straight bar that goes through the ear and is fastened with a nut behind the ear. The most common post is the stud earring.
Eurowire/Fishhook – A bent metal wire that goes through the ear, and the wire hangs down behind the ear. Used with earrings that hand down from the ear, such as dangles.
Leverback – Hinged wire goes through the ear and snaps securely in place without a nut (or locks into a groove on the other side of the earring).
Kidney Wire – Similar to Eurowire, but the end of the wire that hangs down in the back hooks onto the front of the wire, making it more secure.
Screw Back – Tightened onto the ear with a screw and held on by friction.
Omega – This type of finding hinges and flips over a post to provide additional security.
Clip Back – A hinged spring tab secures this type of earring closure to the ear lobe. An alternative to pierced earrings; often used for heavy earrings because they're less likely to stretch or tear the ear than other types of backs.

NECKLACES

WHY GIVE A NECKLACE?

Necklaces add style to any wardrobe. The right necklace can dress up even the most casual outfit. There are simpler necklaces that make great everyday accessories, and more elegant, elaborate necklaces that are perfect for evening wear and special occasions. Necklaces also are a very romantic gift; giving a woman a necklace offers you the opportunity to put it gently around her neck.

STANDARD NECKLACE LENGTHS

Choker – 16 inches
17 to 18 inches – Will reach the collarbone
20 inches – A few inches below the collarbone
22 inches – At or above the neckline
24 inches – A little below the neckline
30 inches – Below the chest

COMMON NECKLACE CLASPS

Ball and Socket – A ball end that fits into a round "socket" end, resembling a trailer hitch.
Hook and Eye – Typically, some type of "s" or hook-shaped wire that latches onto a circular "eye" on the other side of the necklace.
Lobster Claw – A very sturdy and secure type of metal clasp which resembles a lobster claw.
Slide – One narrower piece that slides into an open piece, holding the necklace together. The most secure slides will click together when fully closed; many also have an additional locking safety clasp.
Spring Ring – A circular tube enclosing a coiled spring that presses on the inner end of a curved wire partially projected from the tube to complete its circle, which is opened by pressing on a small finger piece on the wire.
Toggle Bar – One end is a small metal bar and the other is a metal loop, and the bar slides sideways into the loop, turns, and stays in place.

BUYING TIPS FOR NECKLACES

As with other jewelry items, consider the recipient's age, height, weight and gender; what they already wear; what styles, designs and gemstones they prefer; their lifestyle, etc.
Consider whether this will be an everyday necklace or a special occasion necklace. Everyday or normal business wear necklaces are typically shorter, more basic and less elaborate, while evening wear necklaces are often longer, more gem intense, and more ornate.
Accent a V-neck with a drop pearl necklace or solitaire pendant. This same piece also complements boat-neck and crewneck tops. Accessorize strapless and off-the-shoulder necklines with shorter necklace styles that are close to the neck. Pair an open-collar blouse with a thicker, chunkier necklace. Interlock chains that lie flat on the collarbone to accent a dressy casual outfit or business suit. Enhance a jewel-neck or turtleneck sweater with a long string of colorful beads. Precious gemstones work well with a thicker day look, while crystals bring a little glamour to an evening ensemble. Pair a square-neck top with a pendant that dangles from a long chain.

BODY TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

Older women should wear longer necklaces to draw attention away from any necklines or imperfections. They can also get away with bigger and wider chains.
Chokers and shorter necklace styles are appropriate for younger women due to their youthful skin.
If you have a wider neck, it's best to wear longer chains or graduated necklaces, which are very thin around the neck and larger below the collarbone.
For long, thin necks, try multiple strand necklaces, with the shortest strand hugging the base of the throat. Shorter, rounder necklaces also work well. Avoid V-shaped chains as well as long, thin necklaces that accentuate the thinness of the neck.

PENDANTS

WHY GIVE A PENDANT?

Pendants are different from necklaces in that they feature a hanging stone or jewelry ornament strung on a neck chain, whereas a necklace is typically a string of gems or beads worn around the neck. Pendants are a wonderful way to showcase a special gem, locket, charm, ornament or other similar item to express the wearer's individuality. They also are a very personal item to give to someone, because they are worn close to the heart.

COMMON PENDANT CHAIN CLASPS

Hook and Eye – Typically, some type of "s" or hook-shaped wire that latches onto a circular "eye" on the other side of the chain.
Lobster Claw – A very sturdy and secure type of metal clasp which resembles a lobster claw.
Spring Ring – A circular tube enclosing a coiled spring that presses on the inner end of a curved wire partially projected from the tube to complete its circle, which is opened by pressing on a small finger piece on the wire.
Toggle Bar – One end is a small metal bar and the other is a metal loop, and the bar slides sideways into the loop, turns, and stays in place.

BUYING TIPS FOR PENDANTS

The options for pendants are virtually limitless: crosses, hearts, lockets, charms, slides, solitaire, pearl enhancers, three-stone, diamond and many other choices are available. Furthermore, each of these comes in many styles, with different materials, sizes, shapes and designs ranging from fun, fashionable and whimsical to smart and sophisticated. Choosing the right pendant is a matter of knowing the person you are buying it for.

Think about the message you are trying to say: "I love you," "you're a great friend," "you're the best mom," etc. There are pendants to express any sentiment.
What are the recipient's interests? Male or female? Large, medium or small body type? Age? Does he or she have a special hobby? What kind of jewelry does he/she already have? Does the recipient dress up often, or wear more casual attire? What clothing styles does the recipient wear? These are all key factors that can help guide your pendant purchase.
Consider how the recipient prefers to wear neck chains – some people like shorter chains worn close to the neck, while others prefer longer chains. The type of pendant also may dictate the chain length. Some pendants sit better on chains that hug closer to the neck, while other pendants hang better on looser fitting chains. Consult your jeweler if you are unsure about the proper length.
If you are buying a pendant with a valuable gemstone, make sure it has a secure setting and a strong clasp. Instruct the wearer to have it inspected by a jeweler at least once per year.

BODY TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

Buy larger pendants for a larger body type and smaller pendants for a smaller body type.
Consider the wearer's age. Older women will want longer pendants to draw attention away from the neck and any imperfections, while younger women can carry off shorter pendants because of their youthful skin.
A longer pendant works well on a taller person, but on a shorter person, it can draw attention to their lack of stature.
For larger bust lines, avoid wearing a longer pendant that disappears into cleavage and will draw added attention to the chest.
Longer pendants will only accentuate a thin, bony neck, while shorter pendants will accentuate a wider, thicker neck.

BRACELETS

WHY GIVE A BRACELET?

Every well-dressed woman needs a bracelet in her jewelry wardrobe. There are casual bracelets and formal bracelets, simple, classic styles and more elaborate, cutting-edge designs. Bangles, diamond or gemstone tennis bracelets, and gold link bracelets in particular are all extremely versatile, will dress up any outfit, and will work for anyone, regardless of their style.

STANDARD BRACELET LENGTHS

5 inches – Toddlers and young children
6 inches – Youth and teen (or very small, thin women)
7 inches – Average woman's wrist
8 inches – Average man's wrist or woman with larger wrist
9 inches – Man with larger wrist

COMMON BRACELET CLASPS

Ball and Socket – A ball end that fits into a round "socket" end, resembling a trailer hitch.
Barrel – Typically, half-cylindrical components at each end of a bracelet that screw or fit together to form a "barrel" shape.
Hook and Eye – Typically, some type of "s" or hook-shaped wire that latches onto a circular "eye" on the other side of the necklace.
Lobster Claw – A very sturdy and secure type of metal clasp which resembles a lobster claw.
Slide – One narrower piece that slides into an open piece, holding the necklace together. The most secure slides will click together when fully closed; many also have an additional locking safety clasp.
Spring Ring – A circular tube enclosing a coiled spring that presses on the inner end of a curved wire partially projected from the tube to complete its circle, which is opened by pressing on a small finger piece on the wire.
Toggle Bar – One end is a small metal bar and the other is a metal loop, and the bar slides sideways into the loop, turns, and stays in place.

BUYING TIPS FOR BRACELETS

As with other jewelry items, consider the recipient's age, height, weight and gender; what they already wear; what styles, designs and gemstones they prefer; their lifestyle, whether they will wear the bracelet every day, at the office or for evening wear, etc. In other words, have an idea of what you want before you start shopping.
One good rule of thumb when looking for the right bracelet length: A proper fitting bracelet will allow you to slip two fingers in between your wrist and the bracelet. A shorter length or longer one may be prone to snagging or breaking.
If wearing a diamond or gemstone bracelet, wear alone on the wrist, without a watch or another bracelet, so as not to distract from the bracelet.
Plain gold link bracelets look great when worn with a watch and are perfect for those who don't like to wear a bracelet on their writing hand.
Whether the bracelet will be worn loose or snug, right hand or left, makes a difference. For instance, a snug flat-link bracelet will be more comfortable on the writing hand than a three-dimensional, larger link bracelet with gemstones.
Always check the clasp for strength and to make sure it locks properly. Better bracelets also have an extra safety lever of some kind to doubly secure the closure. Because bracelets are worn on the wrist, they are subject to plenty of movement and occasional contact, and therefore are prone to breaking, catching on something or falling off and getting lost. A strong clasp will go a long way toward protecting your bracelet.

BODY TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

If you have short fingers and wider hands, avoid wearing very thin and very wide bracelets because they will make you hands appear to be even wider. Choose bracelets with medium thickness.
For long fingers and slim hands, you can wear pretty much any style – but avoid bracelets that are too thin if your hands are long and bony.
Thin and dainty bracelets work well with small, delicate hands.

MEN'S JEWELRY

WHY GIVE MEN'S JEWELRY?

There's nothing more elegant than the sight of a well-dressed man who knows how to accessorize with the right jewelry. More and more men are realizing that looking good means more than just sporting a wedding band and a watch. The men's market has just exploded in recent years with new jewelry styles and designs for the fashion-forward male. Jewelry is a very special, personal gift, and the man in your life will surely appreciate a piece of jewelry you have picked out just for him.

BASIC MEN'S JEWELRY ITEMS

Wedding band (with or without diamonds)
Fine watch
Fashion ring
Bracelet
Neck chains and pendants
Single or double earring
Cuff links
Tuxedo studs
Tie bars/Tie pins/Tie tacs
Button covers
Money clips
Key rings

BUYING TIPS FOR MEN'S JEWELRY

When jewelry shopping for men, always consider their clothing style; any other jewelry they wear; birthstones/gemstones and metal type they prefer; their lifestyle and hobbies; whether the item is for everyday casual wear, office wear or special occasion, etc. This should give you ample clues about what to buy him.
When shopping for a diamond wedding band for a man, make sure the diamond is small enough that it will not detract from your engagement ring!
Make sure you know the proper sizes he needs in rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.
With watches, there are almost unlimited styles and brands, with a wide range of functions. Know before you start shopping which type of watch, and which functions, the recipient wants and needs.
Men should have a bracelet watch as well as a leather strap watch. Stainless steel, white gold, platinum, sterling silver, titanium and tungsten all offer the whiter metal look that is extremely popular. However, a yellow gold watch is very classy and very sophisticated for business/formal wear.
Go with simple, elegant and sophisticated jewelry styles for men. Avoid glitzy, ornate pieces (unless you know that's what he likes). Many men also prefer larger, heavier jewelry items with clean lines and architectural/geometric designs.

BODY TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

Similar to women, in terms of age-appropriate styles; height, weight and body type guidelines; neck size for necklaces and pendants; finger lengths and hand length/size for rings and bracelets, skin, eye and hair coloring for metal type and gemstone colors, etc. However, keep in mind that in general, men's jewelry tends to be larger, heavier and more rugged looking than women's styles.