Valentine’s Day is coming soon. Hearts are the traditional symbol of love, so what could be better to give or receive on Valentine’s Day than a heart-shaped piece of jewelry! Heart-shaped jewelry is the perfect way to express your love on Valentine’s Day – for your spouse, significant other, mother, grandmother, daughter or best friend. Valentines are typically red, so red stones also represent Valentine’s Day.

Charms and charm bracelets are fashionable, whether the traditional chain-and-charm type or the more contemporary modular charm bracelets. Charms can represent meaningful occasions or interests, with the heart front and center. So, how to choose and where to shop? First of all, give yourself plenty of time to think about it – don’t wait till the last minute, or you may find less selection and more stress. What kind of jewelry does she wear now? Is she more traditional, or more flamboyant and “out there”? Is she petite, or a taller person who can wear bigger jewelry?

There’s an overwhelming selection out there, whether in jewelry shops, antique shops or on line, so where do you begin to look? Does she love vintage jewelry? Would fine gemstones be more the ticket? How about something hand made, or something funky and fun? Give it some thought, and start planning.

Let’s look at vintage jewelry first. If you have the time to search antique shops, you might find a gorgeous piece from the past. Red rhinestones adorning a pin or pendant, red enamel on a brooch, anything red will represent your heart on your Valentine gift.

Jewelry stores are promoting Valentine’s Day gift jewelry starting right about now. Depending upon your budget, you can shop for a piece of fine jewelry to express your love. Whether gold, with gem stones and with or without diamonds, there’s a great selection to be found. If you’re looking at diamonds, please be sure to ask about the store’s policy on conflict-free diamonds. Sterling Silver pairs beautifully with red stones, and is less expensive. Heart-shaped pendants are always popular.

Valentine’s themed gem stones would include rubies and garnets, both rich red jewels. Rubies can be pretty expensive, while garnets are lovely and can be found at more reasonable prices. How about a Native American inspired silver piece made with red coral? If you’re looking for something original, unusual or arty, check out craft shows, small gift shops, and of course on line. Etsy.com is a web site for artists to sell their work. You’ll find a large array of handmade jewelry there.

Shopping on line, while convenient and fast, requires some caution. Look at what’s available on eBay, for example, and be sure that the seller has excellent feedback and ratings from buyers. Feel free to ask the seller any questions. You should feel comfortable about the seller and his or her products. If you do buy on line, be sure to purchase at least a week before Valentine’s Day, to allow time for shipping.

And don’t forget the guys – red ruby or garnet rings and cuff links are available too…or a ruby stud earring. Check on line or at a jewelry store. Shopping for just the right Valentine’s gift can be fun – if you plan ahead and get an idea of what you’re looking for. A lovely piece of jewelry, plus some champagne and chocolate will make for a very happy Valentine’s Day!