How to Buy Jewellery as a Surprise Gift

A surprise gift is wonderful when it is right and awkward when it is wrong. The way to get it right is to gather information discreetly, choose a design that has some margin for error and make sure that a swap is easy.

Learn her taste quietly

• Look at what she already wears. Notice her metal, the style and the size of her pieces.
• Look at her jewellery box, if she shows it, or at photographs of her wearing jewellery.
• Listen for hints. People mention what they like in passing, when they see a piece on a friend or in an advertisement.
• Watch her wardrobe, especially the colours and necklines she prefers. See jewellery with saree, kurta and western wear.

Ask an ally

A sister, mother or close friend may know her taste and her ring size. Ask for a short opinion, and make clear it is a secret. This is often the most reliable source of information.

Find the size

• Rings: borrow a ring she wears on the same finger and measure it, or take it to the jeweller for a size. See how to find her ring size without asking and how to measure your ring size at home.
• Bangles and bracelets: you need an inner measure. See how to measure bangle size.
• Necklaces: choose a length by looking at what she wears. See pendant and necklace length guide.

If you cannot learn the size, choose a piece with none, such as studs or a pendant.

Choose a design with margin

For a surprise, a classic design is the safer choice.

• Studs are almost always welcome. See diamond studs buying guide.
• A pendant on a chain suits many necklines. See how to choose a pendant solitaire and designs.
• A slim bracelet with an adjustable fit.

Avoid statement pieces unless you know her taste very well.

Plan the exchange

Before buying, ask the shop about exchange and resizing. Make sure that you can swap for another size or style, and that the policy is in writing. Tell the receiver she may swap it. You can say so lightly: "If it is not quite right, we can change it."

Keep the papers safe

Hold on to the invoice and the certificate in a safe place, and give them with the gift, or separately, so that an exchange is easy. See what to keep with your jewellery.

Hide the evidence

• Ask the shop to put the purchase in a plain bag.
• Keep the receipt away from shared bags or inboxes.
• Choose a delivery time when she will not be at home, if you are having it sent.

Choose a moment

See how to present a jewellery gift for ideas on timing and wording.

Mistakes to avoid

• Guessing a ring size.
• Choosing a design that suits your taste more than hers.
• Spending beyond your budget in the hope of impressing.
• Forgetting to ask about exchange.

If the surprise goes wrong

If she does not like it, accept it gracefully and arrange the exchange together. It is no failure. Many couples end up choosing the replacement together, which becomes its own good memory.

Common questions

Should I buy online or in the shop? If you can, visit the shop so that you see the piece. If you are far away, check the delivery and return terms.

What if she wears no jewellery? Choose a subtle piece, such as small studs, and add a note.

Can the shop help me choose? A good jeweller can suggest options within your budget and style.

Start planning

Browse our diamond jewellery, or book an appointment and tell us about her, so that we can help you choose.