Giving jewelry as a gift requires serious thought, so don't go to a jeweler without a solid game plan.

Buying jewelry for someone else is never an easy task. Jewelry is a very personal gift since many individuals prefer to only wear accessories that hold sentimental value, such as a ring or a cross necklace. Since you're making the choice on their behalf, we've provided some tips on how to shop for jewelry, just in time for the holidays.

1. Create a budget and stick to it.

There's no need to put yourself in debt over a piece of jewelry—especially when many brands, particularly large chain stores, mark up their prices on certain items. Consider visiting a smaller, locally-run jewelry store that'll give you their full attention and have stunning inventory at a lower cost.

2. If you don't know what they like, ask.

If your family member or significant other is wearing the item, dignify them by asking what they like. Remember, not everyone likes hoop earrings or heavy drop necklaces. Oh, and be sure to make sure their ears are actually pierced.

3. Metal allergies are a thing, so choose wisely.

Be sure to also ask the gift recipient if they have any allergies to certain metals, like nickel. I can personally testify to receiving a few sets of earrings that made my ear lobes break out in dermatitis. In case you were wondering, it's highly unpleasant. And itchy. 

4. Not everyone likes their birthstone.

Birthstones may seem like an excellent go-to gift, but pump the brakes. Not all October kids like the luminescence of opals and not all March babies enjoy the blue hue of aquamarine. Please refer to Tip No. 2 to spare you a forced smile when they open the box.

5. When in doubt, go for pearls.

Pearls go with everything. Everything. No matter the occasion, a simple pearl strand necklace or a pair of pearl stud earrings can make any outfit more sophisticated. If you have to go the jewelry route, in terms of gift-giving, you can't go wrong with this option. I mean, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II rocks pearls in some form daily for all occasions, which basically turns all pearl-wearers into queens. 

Do you have any tips when it comes to buying jewelry as a gift? Let us know in the comments below.