Before a couple decides on an engagement ring purchase, there will likely be some other jewelry gifts exchanged as the relationship develops. Remember Taylor Swift’s diamond and gold initial line bracelet gifted to her by beau Travis Kelce in December 2023? [Media reports say he has a matching one.] Jewelry is part of the courtship of many budding relationships.

For these gifts exchanged between sweethearts, personalization enhances the meaning of that gifting moment. Engraved messages, initials, zodiac signs, and birthstones are no-brainer choices, but other less-obvious options can cement the specialness of your union just as much or even better.

Shefi Diamonds

“Personalized jewelry is in high demand,” confirms Surbhi Jain, marketing director, Shefi Diamonds. “Consumers seek a personalized touch to add sentimental value to their jewelry.”

Sam Hupp, vice president of sales and marketing for Paris 1901, a division of Prime Art & Jewel, agrees, and insists it should be top of mind for merchants starting now.

“We see personalization growing dramatically over the next 6–10 months,” he says. “Most of our lines have items that are engravable, and we are coming out with a personalized bridal assortment offering.”

Manufacturers reveal that retail clients have a range of style and theme preferences for this category. At Shefi Diamonds, its cluster-styles program is a verified hit. “For gifting items, it’s one of our top-selling collections,” says Jain.

Beyond birthstones—which Lali Jewelry’s PeriLynn Glasner, design and marketing director, maintains is the quintessential personalized jewelry gift—there are religious jewels and other sentimental silhouettes. At Ostbye, the latter includes tree of life designs and compasses that are part of the maker’s Enhanceables Collection according to Theresa Namie, merchandise manager. “They tell a story when gifted,” she says.

   Prime Art & Jewel

Shefi Diamonds also offers hearts, Stars of David, Hamsa, and mother-and-child designs, though its diamond crosses are among “best sellers,” notes Jain.

Ostbye also does well with crosses and religious discs—so much so that it has Diamond Marriage Symbol and Christian Marriage Symbol Collections for “easy sentimental purchases,” explains Namie.

At Lali Jewelry, pearls are a timeless option for gifting. “They’re relatable and classic,” notes Glasner.

Anniversary bands, too, are go-to gifts for many. “They’re always a best seller,” says Namie. That’s why her company offers a lifetime trade up policy so that as a couple’s love grows, so do the diamonds. “These styles mix and match well and can be sold for several occasions,” she adds.

Lali Jewels

Hupp, meanwhile, likes to encourage layering and multiple adornments celebrating love. For example, in Paris 1901’s M by Monte Luna collection of demi-fine jewelry, ‘I Love You’ necklaces can be paired with heart pendants and bracelet stacks.

“We see personalization as more than just an individual style,” he says. “We see consumers wearing multiple items in a personalized and styled way, including layered necklaces, multiple rings on one finger, or a beautiful bracelet stack on the wrist. Personalized means more than a single piece; it’s a manner of speaking about your style without saying a word.”