When same sex couples get married the jewelry given is a little different than straight couples for obvious reasons.

Rings are exchanged. They usually match or complement each other. Gold is the preferred metal and it can be white or yellow or a mixture of both. In some cases platinum is used and sometimes even silver. I have even seen couples choose rings of steel, animal hair combinations or highly original, enameled rings in bright colors.

In straight unions, one ring is more feminine for the lady and one more masculine for the groom. In same sex unions both rings are similar or the same in most cases.

Plain rings without adornment are the norm. However, this is not cast in stone and sometimes both partners will order rings with diamonds or precious stones.

Many couples take the opportunity to have something meaningful engraved inside the bottom of the shank.

Same sex couples also go the route of ordering suites of jewelry for each other. Matching neck chains and bracelets are common. However, cuff links for couples who work in corporate environments are popular, too. Gents often exchange gold button covers which are stylish and versatile. Lockets with tiny cameo photographs are also used, particularly by ladies.

Same sex couples are often avant-garde in their tastes. Therefore, bold, unusual designs are preferred if they are more flamboyant. This is not always true as some couples are very conservative.

Diamonds are popular choices for gift jewelry in same sex unions and they are usually in the form of single stud earrings for the gents or pairs of diamond stud earrings for the ladies. They also feature on watches given as gifts and famous designer brands are in demand.

Other gift jewelry for same sex couples are icons cast in gold, specifically gay related. These can be used as pendants or charms and added to neck chains or bracelets. Collar pins and tie pins are also an option but are rare to find. Signs of the zodiac are sometimes used and even cartoon characters cast in gold.

Nipple rings are an idea for the couple who are likely to wear them. Like belly rings for the ladies they are often better cast in surgical stainless steel than in gold. Pairs of little gold balls on a chain have sold as well as golden studs on leather.

Nameplates cast in gold with or without diamonds are more personalized gifts and they can be with or without diamonds or other stones. Initial pendants are also used and the age-old favorite of one side each of a broken heart is also a good choice for a pendant.

Scarf and lapel pins are useful smaller gifts for ladies as are interesting double or single clasps for pearl necklaces.

Like people the world over, same sex couples are individuals and choosing suitable gifts for their unions is always a matter of taste, style and budget.

Learn more about this author, Laurence Newman.
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