Jewelry is one of the top gift ideas on many Valentine’s Day lists. If buying some bling for your sweetheart is on your agenda, here are a few tips to help you pick the right piece for the best value.

First, and perhaps most important, choose a jeweler you trust.

And also who takes the time to get to know what you’re looking to purchase. Von Bargen's Jewelry owner Julie Thom writes  “At Von Bargen's, our business is relationship based, so we see it as our job to know our clients and their preferences. In the case when a client has never shopped with us, we interview the client to best know and understand the recipient they are looking to surprise with a gift. Once we interview the client, we can provide a personalized and professionally guided tour of the artists we represent and the designs we create in our own studio.”

Next, pay attention! 

What type of jewelry does your sweetheart already wear? If she always wears earrings but rarely necklaces, then you’ll want to stick with earrings. If he’s not a bling type of guy, then choosing a simple piece instead of one with lots of gemstones may be the way to go.

Do some research before you shop. 

If diamonds are on her wish list, then make sure you understand the 4Cs—color, cut, clarity, and carat. For colored gemstones, you’ll need to understand the difference between natural and synthetic stones. Also, familiarize yourself with the different grades of gold, platinum, and silver.

Get up to date on the popular styles. 

Look at jewelry ads in newspapers and magazines (like Here in Hanover) to see what styles are trending. In addition, scope out jewelers’ websites. You might actually find exactly what you’re looking for and can show the jeweler when you’re ready to buy.

Set a budget. 

You don’t have to spend a fortune to buy a nice piece of jewelry. Most shops have great selections in all price ranges. Knowing how much you want to spend before you walk in will allow the jeweler to point you in the right direction.

Flowers and chocolates are lovely gifts, but a piece of jewelry is something the recipient will enjoy for a lifetime. Planning ahead and picking a knowledgeable jeweler will ensure that your sweetheart will be thrilled by your selection, and that will make for a happy Valentine’s Day for you both.

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