The Best Jewelry Gifts for the 2023 Holiday Season, From Diamond Studs to Birthstone Rings

As the saying goes, “the best things come in small packages,” and jewelry certainly falls under that category. In fact, these shiny, sparkly, and ever-so-thoughtful pieces are usually some of the most appreciated presents of the season.

There is, however, one downside: jewelry can be daunting to pick out. Unless you know exactly what the gift recipient wants—including their ring size, metal preferences and favorite gemstone—you might feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, as that’s where this list comes in. To help you find the perfect present to gift your mom, friend, sister, aunt, or any loved one, really, we combed through the internet to narrow down your choices. You may still need to ask them (subtly) for a few specific details, but we did the rest of the work for you.

Read on to shop the best jewelry gifts of the 2023 holiday season, from versatile hoops and diamond studs to personalized necklaces, birthstone rings and elegant watches. 

Best Jewelry Gifts: Earrings

Peace Jewelers 14K Gold Choice of Carat Weight Cultured Diamond Stud Earrings, From $499 at Shop HQ

Courtesy of Peace Jewelers

There isn’t anything more effortlessly glamorous, or versatile, than a pair of diamond studs—making them the perfect gift for your best friend, lifelong partner or even yourself. These conflict-free earrings from Peace Jewelers come in a 14K yellow or white gold finish, and you can pick the exact carat weight you’d like, from 0.50 ctw to 4.00 ctw.

Mejuri Dôme Huggies, $58 at Mejuri

Courtesy of Mejuri

Available in sterling silver and gold vermeil, the Mejuri Dôme Huggies are an updated spin on your classic studs or hoops. Subtle but still fashionable, the $58 earrings can be worn solo or complemented by something more sparkly in the neighboring piercing.

Aurate Pearl Huggie Earrings, $760 at Aurate New York

Courtesy of Aurate

While regular pearls can often feel a bit dated, pearl huggies find just the right balance between timeless and modern. According to one shopper, this pair from Aurate has a “solid and substantial” gold hoop and “the pearl is big enough to pop.”

Apsvo Chunky Gold/Silver Hoop Earrings, $11.99 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

A chunky hoop gives any look an extra boost of personality, so gift these to that friend who’s always looking to refresh their wardrobe. The best part is this Apsvo pair is just under $12, but the finish is still nickel-free, lead-free and hypoallergenic.

Kenda Scott Letter Single Stud Earring in 18K Gold Vermeil, $40 at Kendra Scott

Courtesy of Kendra Scott

If you’re trying to find jewelry for the person in your life who already seems to have everything, get them a couple of Kendra Scott Letter Single Stud Earrings. They’re simple but still thoughtful, and they can be worn together or mixed and matched with other pieces.

Best Jewelry Gifts: Necklaces

Kendra Scott Leighton Gold Pearl Strand Necklace in White Pearl, $80 at Kendra Scott

Courtesy of Kendra Scott

A special holiday calls for a special piece of jewelry—and this standalone necklace from Kendra Scott is just the one. With nine cultured freshwater pearls fastened on a dainty gold chain, it’s an elegant option when you don’t want to layer but still want to make a statement with your accessories.

Monica Vinader Heart Pendant Necklace, $135 at Nordstrom

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Heart jewelry can sometimes veer toward juvenile, but this Monica Vindar locket is fun while still feeling grown-up and sensible. The gift recipient can wear it over a smaller chain or wear it by itself; either way, there’s a good chance they’ll never take it off.

Mejuri Chain Necklace, $148 at Mejuri

Courtesy of Mejuri

Think of the Mejuri Chain Necklace as a do-it-all kind of piece. Sure, it can be worn as is, but it can also be styled with charms or a pendant—which make great gifts for another holiday or an upcoming birthday.

David Yurman Box Chain Necklace, $175 to $445 at Nordstrom

Courtesy of Nordstrom

If they prefer silver to gold pieces, they’ll love this David Yurman Box Chain Necklace. One shopper describes it as a “super simple and elegant chain that goes a long way,” so you know whoever is lucky enough to open this present will wear it for many years to come.

Amelia Rose Diamond Initial Necklace, $126 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

If it’s Oprah-approved, you can basically guarantee your loved one will appreciate it, too. The Amelia Rose Diamond Initial Necklace made it on the media mogul’s 2023 Favorite Things List, and she deemed it perfect for anyone, from “tweens to aunties.”

Best Jewelry Gifts: Rings

Nashelle Complete Heart Ring, $49 at Nordstrom

Courtesy of Nordstrom

The Nashelle Complete Heart Ring is a unique alternative to more expected heart-shaped jewelry, and its 14-karat gold fill is shopper-approved. One described it as “lightweight and comfortable to wear,” and another said it has ​”​maintained its beautiful gold color through everyday wear.”

Oradina 14K Yellow Gold Have a Ball Stack Ring, $155 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Plain rings are lovely, but this Oradina yellow gold ring is sure to make anyone smile in delight this season. The solid gold balls are soldered together, creating an equally interesting and fashionable piece of everyday jewelry.

Pavoi 14K Gold Plated Initial Adjustable Ring, $13 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Your best friend might have initial earrings or an initial necklace, but what about an initial ring? This one from PAVOI is even adjustable, so they can modify the band for the perfect fit.

Aurate Birthstone Baguette Ring, $140 at Aurate New York

Courtesy of Aurate New York

If you’re looking for a personalized gift—but one that doesn’t have their initials—consider a piece with their birthstone. The Aurate Birthstone Baguette Ring is eye-catching, certainly, but still understated enough to work with anyone’s style.

Best Jewelry Gifts: Bracelets and Watches

Citizen L Mae, $460 at Citizen Watch

Courtesy of Citizen Watch

In the heyday of smartwatches, there’s something incredibly chic about wearing an analog watch. Consider this one from Citizen for your stylish mom—she’s always talking about upgrading her wrist jewelry, after all.

Gucci G-Timeless Multibee Stainless Steel Watch, $2,050 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

That person who can’t get enough Gucci in their closet? They’re going to fall head over heels for the G-Timeless Multibee Stainless Steel Watch. Not only are the bee hour markers super charming, but the pairing of silver-and-gold tones is unexpectedly sophisticated.

Tory Burch Good Luck Chain Bracelet, $148 at Tory Burch

Courtesy of Tory Burch

If a “beautiful bracelet that goes well with all jewelry and any other bracelets,” is on your list this season, you’ll find it at Tory Burch—at least according to one reviewer. The flat Double T logo is small enough to be tasteful, but still gives the Good Luck Chain Bracelet a bit of pizzazz.

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