by Magda D. Healey

Created on: November 25, 2009

In the disposable world of today, the thought of buying a timeless present - a gift that will be cherished for years if not generations - is growing increasingly attractive. What timeless gifts are most suitable for her?
Even more than with other presents, the thought and consideration matter most when buying a gift that's meant to last. Take into account her tastes, preferences, lifestyle and personality, square it up to your budget, and choose the best quality you can afford. Quality is a key when buying timeless gifts: if in doubt, go for a smaller item of better quality rather than a more showy one of lesser standard.

1) Jewellery

Diamonds were the girl's best friends in the famous tune, and be it diamonds, rubies or semi-precious stones like amber or jade, be it platinum or silver, jewellery is indeed one of the most timeless gifts you can buy for a woman. If well chosen and of high quality, it will be passed to the next generation and might end up gracing necks and wrists of her daughters and granddaughters!

But quality is the imperative, and quality means, generally, noble metals and at least semi-precious stones. Some items of costume jewellery can be valuable (particularly vintage crystal or glass beads), but this is a connoisseurs market and to be on a safe side, go for high-carat gold, sterling silver, platinum and real gems.

Choose designs that are either classic in style or understated enough not to go out of fashion. Have a careful look at what she wears and don't buy anything in a wildly different style. Buying a matching set is a good idea if you can afford it, though make sure your lady has pierced ears before buying a set that contains earrings. For single items, the best choices are medium length necklaces or pendants (these tend to look good on most necks) and bracelets that are neither too chunky nor too delicate. Brooches are also good (there are some wonderful vintage ones) but not every woman wears brooches, so check if it's suitable.

Avoid mass-market chain-store jewellery: a 9ct "gold" chain from Argos is not likely to become a heirloom!


2) Arts and crafts

Decorative items often become heirlooms and will adorn the rooms of generation after the generation. The most important thing when buying decorative items to last is to buy original, unique works (although obviously one of the numbered set of artist's prints is perfectly acceptable). Make sure you know what your lady likes: see what's on her walls and shelves.

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