I’m thinking maybe a ring or set of earrings. Budget is 50-100 USD. Shipping to Japan or EU, either works (we are in both in the near future).
How should I start? I’m so lost.
If it helps her style is halfway between elegant and hippy (witchy) and she gives off autumn vibes (wears dark greens and maroons a lot, paired with light skin, often wears turtlenecks and dark colours).
I just don’t have a clue what websites to look at, what is considered good or bad etc.
Go to a jewelry shop and ask for advice. If they’re any good at their job, they field tons of customers just like you and make recommendations based on what you tell them about your partner and maybe a photo.
Can’t go to shops I’m immunocompromised unfortunately (thanks Covid)
If she has an Etsy account follow her and buy the things she favourites
This is great advice. My partner does this, and he surprised me with an alexandrite ring I was drooling over. I was so delighted when he gave it to me, and it was such a thoughtful thing to do.
Tell her you are going to get her what she wants with the budget you provide? She can pick it out and you know she will be happy with it. Sometimes its the thought that counts, but no woman wants to be stuck with jewelry they think is ugly and they dont want to wear, no matter how thoughtful the person that gifted it to them was.
I would start with what she currently wears and try to find something with similar styles and metals.
Yes, metals do matter, some metal coatings don’t work with some people and will cause them problems.
Seconding everything here, but emphasizing point 2. Some folks have metal allergies or sensitivities - nickel is a common one, for example.
Surgical steel is usually safe, but still best to confirm she doesn’t have any particular sensitivities.
Just ask her to go with you to buy the present. Everything doesn’t need to be a surprise. People have this misconception that every god damn thing (birthday parties, presents, etc) needs to be a surprise. It doesn’t!