Americans spend an average of $80 on gifts for friends, reiterating their love for friendship. All over the world, various items symbolize friendship between people. Therefore, it can be pretty confusing to decide on the exact item to present as a gift to a friend. However, there are some markers and guidelines to make the gift selection process easy. For instance, you can be guided by culture, an item with historical background, or a gift that highlights an animal motif you both adore. Indeed, the possibilities are endless, and hopefully, the points discussed here will help in your gift selection.
1. Claddagh Rings
Irish history tells the story of Richard Joyce in the 17th century, who travailed life’s misfortunes and finally reunited with the love of his life when he eventually returned home. The highlight of his return was his intricate design of the Claddagh ring that finally found its way on his woman’s finger. Over the years and centuries, this famed story, together with the ring, formed the basis of love, loyalty, and friendship. Today, in the 21st century, you will find these rings in various metals.
For example, apart from the original gold Irish Claddagh ring, silver, and white gold variations still symbolize friendship. Additionally, gem and precious stones clasped by the famous Claddagh hands vary as well. You will find ruby, tourmaline, diamond, and several other authentic gemstones with the Claddagh ring. Before choosing, however, be sure to know your friend’s favorite gem. That alone can add more value to the Claddagh ring gift you present to your best friend.
2. Encased Chrysanthemum Pendant
The chrysanthemum flower has been associated with health, happiness, good wishes, and cheer throughout history. It is also well known as a friendship flower. Indeed, in Japanese, Chinese, and other Asian languages, the chrysanthemum names are loosely interpreted as ‘golden flower.’ Therefore, where friendship is concerned, this small, white daisy-like flower represents the richness of the bond. Additionally, it is used to symbolize long-lasting happiness.
It is impossible to give the flower just as it is and not expect it to wither over time. It explains why jewelers have found a creative way to make it last. The encased chrysanthemum pendant is the same flower but treated, dried, and locked up in a fiberglass casing. It becomes the item of friendship for life while attached to a silver or gold necklace. The exciting part is they come in twin designs. Therefore, you can present one to your best friend while you keep the other.
3. Gemstones
Did you know that some gemstones are classified as symbols of lasting friendship? A typical example is the Lapis Lazuli – a deep-blue colored precious stone standing for truth in friendship. Its rock-like features assume that the bond will remain firm as a rock and not easily broken. To this day, the Lapiz Lazuli continues to be found in large quantities in present-day Afghanistan.
Other friendship stones are topaz, rose quartz, malachite, etc. Indeed, there are several more ranging in a broad budget spectrum. Therefore, when you have the opportunity to buy one as a gift for a friend, choose what you can comfortably afford. In the end, it’s the thought that counts and not the cost.
About the Author
Contributing Author
This article is written by a contributing author.
If you found this post useful, please Pin It!
Hi, before you go…
Don’t forget to join the email list!
Don’t forget to join in on the conversation on social media.