Choosing the Perfect First Piece: A Guide to Selecting Baby's First Fine Jewellery

Welcoming a new member into the family is an exciting occasion, and many cultures around the world celebrate this joyous event by gifting fine jewellery to babies. These exquisite pieces become cherished keepsakes that symbolise love, protection, and the beginning of a lifetime journey.

In this guide, we'll explore the significance of children's jewellery across various cultures and provide helpful tips on selecting the ideal piece for the little one in your life. 

Cultural Significance & Customs of Gifting Baby Jewellery: A Brief Overview

Indian

In Indian and South Asian cultures, the tradition of gifting gold jewellery to babies is deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs. Families often present infants with gold necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and earrings during first visits, naming ceremonies and other auspicious occasions. They are also often gifted by close members of the family on their first birthday. These pieces usually are believed to bring prosperity, ward off evil, and symbolise the family's wealth and blessings. The incorporation of black onyx or obsidian beads in bracelets or anklets are believed to provide protection to the wearer from the 'evil-eye' of others towards them.

In South Asian, South-East Asian as well as Latin American cultures , it’s actually expected that baby girls have their ears pierced. Therefore buying the first set of earrings for the baby is one of the most special moments for the parents and/or grandparents in these cultures.

Chinese

Chinese culture places great importance on auspicious symbols and gold jewellery, such as baby gold bracelets, bangles and lockets, is often given to newborns to symbolise good luck, prosperity, and a bright future. These pieces may feature symbols like dragons, phoenixes, or longevity symbols to convey positive wishes for the child's life.

Middle Eastern

In many Middle Eastern cultures, it's common to gift gold and silver jewellery to babies as a symbol of protection and good fortune. Gold bracelets, anklets, and earrings are popular choices, and some families may also include diamonds and gemstones like turquoise, believed to bring protection and ward off the evil eye. Designs incorporating the evil eye or Hamsa hand / Hand of Fatima are also popular as gifts. 

Western Traditions

Western cultures often celebrate the arrival of a new baby with special jewellery, especially during significant milestones like christenings or first birthdays. Popular choices include gold or silver baby bracelets, christening bangles, and delicate gold or silver necklaces. Italian and Spanish cultures traditionally gift necklaces, pendants and bracelets bearing the cross.

These pieces are not only fashionable but also hold sentimental value as family heirlooms passed down through generations.

Tips for Choosing the perfect piece for your Baby

Consider the Material:

When choosing baby jewellery, opt for high-quality materials like solid gold. Solid gold baby earrings and children's gold earrings are not only luxurious but also hypoallergenic, making them safe for a baby's delicate skin. The nature of gold ensures that the piece will withstand the test of time, becoming a lasting memento.

Timeless Designs:

 Selecting a timeless simple design ensures that the jewellery remains relevant and cherished as the child grows. Classic pieces such as infant diamond earrings or simple children's bangles can be versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. Items like earrings or bracelets could also be worn as the child gets older and for many years to come with little adjustments. 

Personalisation for Sentimental Value:

Consider adding a personal touch to the jewellery to enhance its sentimental value. Engraving the child's name, birthdate, or a meaningful message on a baby bracelet or bangle, adds a unique and special touch that will be treasured for years to come. Recently, adding a birthstone to necklaces or bracelets has grown in popularity.

Safety:

Ensure that the chosen jewellery is designed with the safety of the child in mind. Look for features such as secure clasps, rounded edges, and correct sizing to prevent any discomfort or injury. Safety is paramount when it comes to choosing jewellery for little ones. Our pieces have specially selected clasps, soldered connection links to prevent catching on clothes, as well as adjustable links to allow a comfortable fit for longer on our bracelets. Studs and hoop earrings are considered the safest types of earrings. Our collection of stud earrings suitable for babies, children and adults, have covered backs to avoid sharp ends and a screw-design so that they stay secure on the ear.

Versatility for Different Occasions:

 Choose a piece that can be worn on various occasions. This could be daily wear or special occasions. A versatile baby bracelet or children's bangle or bracelet can be dressed up or down, allowing them to wear it for everyday activities as well as special events. This ensures that the jewellery remains a practical and cherished accessory.

Gifting fine jewellery to babies is a tradition across many cultures and are seen as tangible expressions of love, happiness and protection. By considering the material, design, safety, and versatility, you can select the perfect first piece of fine jewellery for any little one in your life, creating a memorable and lasting keepsake that will be cherished for generations to come.

Suri-Mai Jewellery specialise in high-quality solid gold and silver earrings, bracelets and bangles designed to be worn and cherished by babies and children of all cultures. Our pieces will make the perfect baby gift for any special occasion. View our collection here.