Ideas for the Jewelry for a Bridesmaid

Give your bridesmaid a gift she'll remember.

Bridesmaid jewelry is a classic way to thank your friends and family members for their part in your wedding ceremony. The women stood next to you, helped you plan the wedding and were with you every step of the way. Ideas for jewelry for bridesmaids traditionally include items they wear during the ceremony. The right jewelry choices also give the women something they can wear again in the future.

Jewelry Sets

Jewelry sets are more than just a single piece of jewelry and include a matching set of jewelry for each bridesmaid in the wedding. Typically you'll find sets that include earrings and a matching necklace. If the bridesmaid dresses have high necklines or necklines that would otherwise hide a necklace, then opt for a set of earrings and a bracelet.

Always check with the women in your bridal party first and ask if they have pierced ears. The last thing you want to do is buy four sets of earrings, only to learn that two women need clip-on earrings.

Traditional Choices

Traditionally bridesmaid jewelry consists of a single piece that serves as a thank you gift, such as a necklace. When you pick a piece, compare it against the design of the bridesmaid dress. The piece should complement the dress, without detracting from it or make it look too busy.

Also, you may want to consider buying something slightly different for the maid of honor, as she has a special place in the ceremony. Traditional pieces include real or fake pearls on a gold or silver base metal. Check with the bridesmaids ahead of time, asking about any metal allergies they might have.

Brooches or Pins

If you decide to let the bridesmaids pick out their own jewelry, opt for a small brooch or pin for each woman. Brooches and pins are small pieces of jewelry that won't detract from the lines of the bridesmaid dress. As each woman wears hers in a different location on the dress, it also keeps them from looking too perfectly matched.

Accessories

Give each bridesmaid some type of accessory that goes along with the jewelry gift. Opt for a jar of jewelry cleaner that helps her keep the jewelry in good condition well into the future. Or pick a small jewelry box or velvet bag. These will protect the piece of jewelry, keeping it from getting scratched or otherwise damaged.

References

• Artbeads; Bridal Jewelry Ideas; 2011
• American Bridal: Bridal Jewelry & Bridesmaids Jewelry
• Kira Designs: Bridesmaid Jewelry Set Ideas

Resources

• "Brides" Magazine; Bridesmaid Jewelry; 2011