Valentine’s Day is around the corner and most women would love to know what is going on in a man’s mind when he is choosing a piece of jewellery for them. Of course, even with established couples it is often difficult to second guess someone else’s favourite piece. Style-wise, the choices can be quite overwhelming - abstract, organic, symbolic, representational, the list goes on. 

Let’s consider some safe bets, with high symbolism. Perhaps something in gold, a noble metal that cannot tarnish. Or pearls, emblems of perfection and incorruptibility, so ideal as a gift of love. According to Coco Chanel, a woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls. Hearts, of course, are a perennial love token, circles symbolise a never-ending cycle, pinks and reds are colours of love and passion. 

But the truth is, any piece of jewellery can have a deep personal meaning, so the choices are endless.

The psychology of giving shows that acts of love and kindness make us feel happy and the warm glow that comes from giving helps our sense of wellbeing. It has been proven to decrease blood pressure and reduce stress. When you give to others your generosity is often continued down the line to someone else or returned to you. 

Jewellery itself is a labour of love, of design, of craftsmanship. It is a labour of invention, a love of dreams and realisation. Love is not very far away from a piece of handmade jewellery. 

If you're looking for jewellery with extra meaning, here is a start.. If these ideas don't quite hit the mark, keep browsing by type, material, colour, designer, theme, and more..