Less Expensive Tiffany: Picks by the ladies, for the ladies…
Yes. You’re paying quite a bit for the name. In fact, it’s this less expensive (but still plenty expensive to many of us) stuff that Tiffany & Co. can mark up MORE, compared to their extremely high-end pieces. But is it really just a name and a box? To some, yep. It’s just a name and a box. And people who buy stuff are suckers. Overpriced junk! All of it! If that’s you, then best to sit this one out.
But to others, there’s a tangible difference in the design and build quality of Tiffany, even in their less expensive options, when compared to cheaper department store stuff. If that’s you… proceed. If you’re somewhere in the middle? Consider this a look book you can use when perusing similar styles by local craftsman, jewelers, or even on Etsy. The ladies on Team Dappered picked out their favorites under $500. Here’s the best of that which won’t necessitate a second mortgage…
Bow Earrings in Sterling Silver – $175 or 18k Gold – $400
Feminine and charming, these are an easy, go-to stud earring for any occasion. Bows are still trending, but never really seem to go out of style. These are earrings she can wear for years, and then eventually pass down to someone else.
Tiffany Hearts Arrow Pendant in Sterling Silver – $175 or RUBEDO – $350
A pendant symbolic of love (or archery, or the Hunger Games), this is a piece she can wear on its own, or she can layer with some longer chains. If not for the upcoming holiday, you might want to keep this one in your back pocket as a possible Valentine’s Day gift.
Paloma’s Sugar Stack Ring – $325
(BEWARE of gifting a ring around the holidays! If you’re not already engaged or married, rings can easily be mistaken to represent something they don’t.) A simple ring of sterling and quartz, and as the name implies, this ring can be worn alone, or stacked with other bands she already has.
Elsa Peretti Color By The Yard Pendant – $500
For the woman that likes to wear, or accent her clothing with, color. This will be a welcome necklace to have come warmer weather, when brighter colors once again rule our wardrobes. The stone is a semi-precious lapiz lazuli, the chain and mounting 18k gold. A matching bracelet is also available.
Tiffany Beads Toggle Bracelet – $200 or Beads Bracelet – $225
Does the woman you’re gifting to often wear bracelets? If the answer is no, don’t buy her a bracelet. But if the answer is yes, either of these options will do. Go with the toggle bracelet if she wears more delicate (smaller) jewelry. The Beads Bracelet is the better choice if she normally wears chunkier jewelry. And if she likes a splash of color, try this toggle bracelet with a Tiffany Blue heart attached.
Elsa Peretti Round Pendant – $225
Another piece from naturalist designer Elsa Peretti, elegant and simple in design, this will likely appeal to the more mature woman on your list. Or if you’re gifting to a designer, she’ll appreciate the fact that this has a designer’s name attached to it.
Tiffany Enchant Butterfly Pendant – $425
A feminine choice for sure, this falls in line with the current “delicate” jewelry trend. This one might be better suited to a younger lady. Or the girls that likes to do all her shopping at Anthropology and wears very feminine looks.
Jewelry Roll- $225
For women who travel a fair amount jewelry rolls can come in very handy. Not throwing all your favorite baubles into a plastic bag to get all tangled together is a good thing, and having a Spanish made leather roll to pack your jewelry into makes packing it that much more enjoyable. Pull a double whammy, and put a piece of jewelry in it.
Passport Cover – $150
Another great gift for a traveler, but this is for the girl that makes international trips. A passport cover can a) keep your passport from getting too beat up, and b) looks pretty classy when pulling your passport out. Plus the Tiffany blue should make it easy to find in her handbag or carry-on.
Flap Card Case – $350
Does she like to keep her wallet clean, or does she have a goal of downsizing all the crap that ends up in her wallet? Here’s an attractive minimalist way to store a few credit cards, some cash, and ID. Also available in a zip option.
Ziegfeld Collection Pearl Ring – $550
Okay, maybe the post should be called “$550 and under”? But what’s the point of Tiffany if you don’t overspend a little? From their Gatsby inspired Ziegfeld collection, this cocktail ring is pure roaring 20s. Fun and oversized, but still very classy. A perfect match for her favorite little black dress. Again, be careful with gifting rings. This style is by no means going to be confused for an engagement ring, but if she sees a ring box, and it says Tiffany on it, watch out. Maybe a fun splurge for the husbands out there, if by chance you two are going somewhere fancy on New Year’s?
Many thanks to the women of Team Dappered for making these picks. Tiffany is offering free, delivered by Christmas shipping on all orders, as long as you order by Tuesday, December 23, at 3:00pm ET.