Help me think about a 40th birthday present!

[luckykit]

I'm turning 40 in a month, and I've been so busy that I haven't given much thought to what I would like. My husband said he has "thought about it" - though he's not a planner/researcher so I'm a little scared about what he might come up with (he's not a bad gift giver, I just have more expectations since this is a milestone birthday and I don't know what to expect since this is the first big bday we have had together). I told him last night that I typically like to get things I can keep forever for milestone bdays/anniversaries. I asked if he wanted me to give him specific guidance, and he didn't say yes, but I don't think he would turn down me pointing out a specific item.

We are taking a trip (destination TBD, probably Europe) in January to celebrate as well, so I don't want this to be a massive blowout item (looking for around $1000-$1500), but definitely something nice that I can wear frequently/everyday, and that is timeless. I'm pretty simple and classic - my e-ring is a diamond solitaire and my wedding ring is a diamond band, and i tend to wear small stud earrings and delicate necklaces. Not really into bracelets. I have diamond and pearl studs already. Any suggestions? I was looking at the Elsa Perretti diamonds by the yard necklace (or similar bezel set diamond necklace from elsewhere), but am wondering what other items you all have for everyday and love. Thanks in advance!

 

[Love Of My Life]

I'm turning 40 in a month, and I've been so busy that I haven't given much thought to what I would like. My husband said he has "thought about it" - though he's not a planner/researcher so I'm a little scared about what he might come up with (he's not a bad gift giver, I just have more expectations since this is a milestone birthday and I don't know what to expect since this is the first big bday we have had together). I told him last night that I typically like to get things I can keep forever for milestone bdays/anniversaries. I asked if he wanted me to give him specific guidance, and he didn't say yes, but I don't think he would turn down me pointing out a specific item.

We are taking a trip (destination TBD, probably Europe) in January to celebrate as well, so I don't want this to be a massive blowout item (looking for around $1000-$1500), but definitely something nice that I can wear frequently/everyday, and that is timeless. I'm pretty simple and classic - my e-ring is a diamond solitaire and my wedding ring is a diamond band, and i tend to wear small stud earrings and delicate necklaces. Not really into bracelets. I have diamond and pearl studs already. Any suggestions? I was looking at the Elsa Perretti diamonds by the yard necklace (or similar bezel set diamond necklace from elsewhere), but am wondering what other items you all have for everyday and love. Thanks in advance!

I might wait til I take the trip to Europe especially is you are going to Paris.. Lots of things there that sometimes are not available
here in the US
I too am a fan of Elsa Peretti . classic & timeless
Do you like pearls? Does any of the Hermes necklaces appeal to you?

 

[love2learn]

I second waiting on going to Europe. Depending on what designer you may want. If it's a European brand it more than likely will be cheaper there and you get the VAT back, which also helps. However, you may find something before your trip. What's your birthstone? Maybe some earrings with your stone and diamonds to enhance it?

 

[luckykit]

I might wait til I take the trip to Europe especially is you are going to Paris.. Lots of things there that sometimes are not available
here in the US
I too am a fan of Elsa Peretti . classic & timeless
Do you like pearls? Does any of the Hermes necklaces appeal to you?

waiting until Europe is a great idea... but i also wouldn't want to spend too much time shopping during the trip, which may be short due to work schedules. it would have to be something i could pick out in advance, and i have no idea about european jewelry designers/shops. i welcome any and all advice on that!

i like pearls okay, but prefer diamonds. the Hermes are beautiful but i think i prefer something even simpler.

I second waiting on going to Europe. Depending on what designer you may want. If it's a European brand it more than likely will be cheaper there and you get the VAT back, which also helps. However, you may find something before your trip. What's your birthstone? Maybe some earrings with your stone and diamonds to enhance it?

thanks, this is helpful! any chance you have recommendations on designers to look for? my birthstone is December, which is turquoise or blue zircon, neither of which i am a fan of for nice pieces, unfortunately.

 

[Love Of My Life]

I would look at the Elsa Peretti & if you see something that you love I'd go for it..nothing more romantic than being in a romantic
city wearing a birthday gift from your loving hubby..
There is plenty of "eye candy in Paris" I can tell you .. Place Vendome has the most gorgeous "bijoux shops"..
but you have a limited budget & truthfully, EP is chic & timeless.. I think you will have no problem finding a lovely piece
to celebrate your 40th...
If your time might be limited during your travels, you don't want to wander into stores just looking without
having an idea ...if Chanel, LV, Hermes doesn't appeal to you, than I'd stick with the EP

 

[love2learn]

waiting until Europe is a great idea... but i also wouldn't want to spend too much time shopping during the trip, which may be short due to work schedules. it would have to be something i could pick out in advance, and i have no idea about european jewelry designers/shops. i welcome any and all advice on that!

i like pearls okay, but prefer diamonds. the Hermes are beautiful but i think i prefer something even simpler.



thanks, this is helpful! any chance you have recommendations on designers to look for? my birthstone is December, which is turquoise or blue zircon, neither of which i am a fan of for nice pieces, unfortunately.

I don't have many. Depends on where you go. If you go to London you could check out Kiki McDonough or Annoushka. You can look at both of their websites and they have some beautiful pieces fairly priced and some higher priced. Both have been worn by Princess Kate. And with the pound being almost equal to the dollar and then the VAT refund.....that would be a nice gift/souvenir. If you went to Paris there's so many different designers and price ranges. But, I'd for sure research before you go. Like you said, you don't want to waste a lot of time looking around.