The time of year is upon us when students all over the world are frantically testing and writing to obtain that long-awaited degree. Whether they’re planning for their high school graduation, getting their bachelor’s or post-graduate degree, or celebrating another accomplishment, we love to recognize the success of our loved ones and all the hard work they put into receiving their diplomas with graduation gifts. Along with this celebration comes a variety of traditions that range from silly to serious.
Graduation Traditions
Pomp and circumstance
You may not know its name, but you’ve certainly heard this recognizable tune play at pretty much every high school and college graduation you’ve been to. The familiar “Graduation March,” however, actually has its roots in the monarchy. It was written by British composer Edward Elger to memorialize the coronation of King Edward VII. Later on, when Elger received an honorary doctorate at Yale, the song was played again and quickly gained popularity as the music of choice for graduations everywhere.
Cap and gown
The traditional graduation gown consists of a long robe and a square-topped cap — something you’ve probably seen in movies even if you haven’t donned one yourself. Many believe this design is related to clerical outfits of the 12th and 13th centuries, as most scholars were a part of the church at this time. Historians also believe that since academic buildings were generally unheated, the long robes and hoods were worn to keep scholars warm in the chilly halls. Oxford and Cambridge were the first recorded schools to standardize gowns for graduation, and the tradition lives on today.
The turning of the tassel
This tradition is one of the newer ones, having only emerged within the last 40 to 50 years. Originally a simple design element, the movement of the tassel is meant to symbolize a student’s movement from candidate to graduate. If you’re afraid of messing it up, remember that it’s traditional to move the tassel from right to left upon instruction.
Throwing the graduation cap
The tossing of the graduation cap is believed to have started in 1912 at the U.S. Naval Academy. Upon graduation, the Navy gave newly commissioned graduates their officers’ hats for the first time, leaving the midshipmen’s caps they were previously wearing useless. The new officers then tossed their old hats into the air to celebrate, and many graduates have since followed suit.
Graduation leis
This Hawaiian tradition involves graduates being presented with leis by their friends and family members throughout the ceremony. They can sometimes receive so many leis that they end up looking buried in flowers, although “alternative” leis like candy necklaces are sometimes given out too.
Diplomas
The word “diploma,” meaning “double-folded paper,” originated in the mid-17th century. Unlike the cap and gown, diplomas are an American tradition, presented to graduates as a certification of the completion of their studies. The first diplomas were given out at Harvard University in 1813. They are sometimes referred to as “sheepskins” because they were originally written on parchment, which was formed from sheep or goat skin. This durable material was perfect for the long-lasting diploma.
Graduation celebrations
While we can’t say when the idea of celebrating our loved one’s achievements originated, we can say it’s a time-honored tradition we’re happy to be a part of. Most people choose to celebrate by hosting a graduation party, dinner, or another event that puts a spotlight on all the hard work the graduate has done to get to this point. Giving graduation gifts is also a common practice encouraged to celebrate the graduate’s success.
How to Pick Out the Perfect Graduation Gift
There are a lot of reasons why jewelry makes a great graduation gift for everyone. The enduring nature of jewelry means your gift won’t go out of style like the newest trendy pair of shoes, and they won’t outgrow it like they might a piece of clothing. It’s much more personal than money, allowing the graduate to place special significance in your gift. It will also help kick-start their “adult” wardrobe, giving them something they can wear to future job interviews, special events, and all the other things that come along with post-graduation life. Here are a few tips on how to pick out graduation jewelry they’ll truly love.
Shop for versatility
Choose a piece they can easily mix and match with others, or one they’re able to dress up or dress down depending on how they’re wearing it. This ensures they’ll get a lot of use out of your gift.
Know their style
Does your graduate follow the trends, or do they favor more classic styles? Are they in love with vintage jewelry or obsessed with geometric designs? Think about how they dress and what they’ve liked in the past to find something that’s right for them.
Personalize it
There are a million and one ways to make a piece of jewelry extra special. You can choose their birthstone or school colors, specific shapes that match up with their interests, or even engrave their gift with a personal message. Customizing their gift to make it more meaningful will help to make it one they’ll love to wear.
Add utility
This tip is especially important if you don’t see your graduate wearing jewelry that often. Purchasing a gift with more of a purpose, like cufflinks or a money clip, can transform it into something they appreciate all the more.
Price
You’re probably wondering, how much should I even spend on a graduation gift? The answer to that question varies and depends on factors like how close you are with the grad, or if they’re graduating high school, college, or grad school. An average graduation gift can be upwards of $500, but it’s important to give or gift what you comfortably can.
Benefits of Shopping Shane Co. for Graduation
With the largest selection of exclusive styles, customization options, and high-quality craftsmanship, Shane Co. is the place to shop for graduation gifts. We offer signature styles that highlight your graduate’s unique personality, and all of our jewelry is made with hand-picked stones directly sourced and priced for every budget. With our 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee and Free Lifetime Warranty, your purchase is risk-free. Shop at a store near you or explore endless options online to take advantage of our free 2-day shipping, anywhere in the U.S.
Gift Ideas for Any Grad
Still not sure what to get your grad? Take our gift finder quiz or explore some of our most popular gifting options below.
Classic Diamond Studs
Our traditional studs come in a range of sizes, handcrafted with individually matched stones. At Shane Co., we sell natural and lab-grown diamonds, and you can choose either one for your stud earrings. Just like our natural diamonds, our lab-grown diamonds are held to the same standards and are also hand-matched for incredible sparkle.
Diamonds aren’t their thing? Colorful gemstone stud earrings are also a great option. From blue sapphires to morganite and aquamarine, we have studs in every color of the rainbow.
Charms
Charm necklaces are back and more meaningful than ever. Surprise your grad with a necklace made just for them. Choose from a huge selection of charms that will make their necklace one of a kind. Start with a chain, then add on the charm. A zodiac charm or an initial charm is a great way to make it personal. You can also engrave a monogram on our disk charm. The options are truly endless!
Diamond Tennis Bracelet
A tennis bracelet is the perfect gift for the stylish graduate. It’s simple and easy to accessorize with any outfit — a wardrobe staple. It’s a great way to introduce an “adult” piece to your loved one’s jewelry collection.
A Modern “Class Ring”
Skip the traditional class rings and design one they’ll actually want to wear. Start with our Pick-Your-Gemstone North Star Signet Ring in 14k Yellow Gold and then choose a gemstone that represents their school color. You can even customize rings with multiple stones, like with our Simply Bold Ring.
Cultured Freshwater Pearl Pendant
Can a piece of jewelry be trendy and an instant classic? Absolutely. Our Josette Cultured Freshwater Pearl Pendant is just that. With a beautiful single pearl on a 14k yellow, rose, or white gold chain, this pendant is one that will be a staple piece now, and an heirloom in the future.
14k Vermeil Curb Chain
Bold curb-style links create this handsome and refined 20-inch chain necklace that your grad is sure to love. This curb chain is crafted in 14k gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may), which is a thick layer of 14k gold plating on quality sterling silver. This is a piece they can wear every day.
Sterling Silver Curb Bracelet
If chains aren’t their style, try a timeless curb bracelet. Crafted from quality sterling silver, this piece is a go-to gift and will be a part of many future occasions.
