As much as we all wish that we had a bit more time to buy gifts, the bad news for festive shoppers is that there’s just two weeks left until the big day. No doubt your list is a mile long, and while for some, a gift card might suffice, there’s bound to be a few special people in your life that deserve something sparkly.
But buying that special gift for that special someone can be intimidating if you don’t know where to start. So we asked the experts to help. Johanna Cocking is the Director of Merchandising with Spence Diamonds and Ian Porter is the branch manager at the Downtown Burrard Street location. Between them Johanna and Ian have over 35 years of experience and here are their top 5 tips to consider when you’re purchasing jewellery this holiday season.
Know the trends
Image: Spence Diamonds/Stackable rings are very popular this season and come in a variety of colours and designs. You can’t have just one!
This holiday season is all about stacking. For years, you’ve been able to stack bangles one on top of the other and the trend has recently included rings as well. Gone are the days of wearing one single ring on your finger – step outside of the box and purchase a few to make your loved one feel even more special. The great thing about this trend is that it allows you to easily mix metals. Whether the person you’re buying for likes white, rose, or yellow gold, they can mix and match their favourite rings and bangles and personalize their stackables.
Make it unique
Image; Spence Diamonds/Limited Edition Reminder Ring – Only 200 will be made and once they are gone, they are gone forever.
Both Johanna and Ian agree that unique, quality items are a must. Whether it’s a pair of diamond studs, a simple necklace or a stackable ring, if they’re unique, it makes it that much more special. Try to pick pieces that resemble your relationship, tells a story, or reminds you of something only the two of you would know. Interested in seeing how a custom crafted ring is made at Spence Diamonds? Take a look Behind the Design Studio.
A gift with a story
Image: Spence Diamonds/Tennis bracelet from Spence Diamonds
A tennis bracelet is always a popular item for the ladies but most people don’t know the story behind it. During the 1987 US Open, in the middle of a match, tennis player Chris Evert asked officials to stop the game because her diamond bracelet had fallen somewhere on the court. She requested for a pause in the game so she could find her bracelet. Since then, it has been called a tennis bracelet.
To make sure the piece of jewellery you buy has a story, ask your jeweller to guide you through some pieces that may speak to your relationship.
Pop the question
Image: Spence DIamonds/With over 2500 styles to choose from, Spence Diamonds has the largest selection of engagement rings in North America.
Tis the season for proposals. In fact, 39% of proposals happen between the months of November and February. Is there a better time to announce your engagement other than when you know all of your friends and family will be together for the holidays?
Know who you’re buying from
Both Johanna and Ian stress the importance of knowing who you are buying from. Buying from an industry leading Canadian Jeweller that has certified and well educated sales professionals will make your experience that much more pleasant, and you’ll get a piece of jewellery that will last just as long as your love.
Some questions to keep in mind:
- Are they GIA + DCA certified?
- Are pieces custom crafted?
- Where are they made?
- Does the jeweller buy their diamonds direct?
Keeping some of these tips in mind will help with the long shopping list that you’re holding on to.
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