We all remember our “firsts” — that first love, the first day of school, and yes, the first piece of jewelry we ever received. Jewelry holds a special kind of magic, encapsulating moments and memories in a way few other things can. So, we set out to uncover what “firsts” in jewelry gifting and receiving mean to people across the United States.
From necklaces to bracelets and everything in between, our findings offer a glimpse into the role that jewelry plays in people’s lives. Whether it’s a cherished gift or a personal purchase, each piece tells a story — a story that we can’t wait to share with you.
Stay tuned to learn more about the heartwarming and sometimes surprising insights we’ve uncovered.
When it comes to first experiences, receiving your initial piece of jewelry stands out as a defining moment for many. An impressive 50% of respondents admitted that their first jewelry piece made a lasting imprint on their memory. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour; it’s about the sentiment, the occasion, and the person who gifted it.
But what happens to that first piece as time goes by? For 1 in 5 Americans, that first necklace, ring, or bracelet is far from forgotten — in fact, they still wear it. And for 19% of respondents, the emotional worth of that first piece has changed and matured, much like the owners themselves.
Gender and age play significant roles in our first jewelry experiences. For women, the first piece is often a necklace, making up 36% of first-time gifts. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to receive a watch, accounting for 39% of first pieces. When it comes to age, 44% of females got their inaugural piece of jewelry as a child, while 42% of males were teenagers when they received theirs.
Birthdays take the cake as the most frequent occasion for receiving that special first piece, cited by 38% of respondents. And it’s usually a family affair — over half received their first piece from a parent. Surprisingly, 1 in 10 even said that their first piece was a hand-me-down, adding another layer of family history and sentiment to the gift.
When it’s their turn to play the giver, most people opt for necklaces, making up 30% of first gifts. Women often gift their first piece to a close friend, whereas for men, it’s more likely to be a romantic partner. Gifting also turns out to be a memorable event for 46% of people, with men finding it especially significant.
As for the kinds of jewelry people want, the majority of respondents value meaning over material worth. A whopping 86% would prefer a piece with emotional significance over a pricier, but less meaningful item. However, when it comes to new versus passed-down jewelry, opinion is evenly split. Men and younger folks lean toward new items, while women and older generations have a soft spot for family heirlooms.
Finally, the emotional investment doesn’t end after the gift is given. Men, more than women, admit they’d feel upset if they discovered their gifted jewelry was no longer being worn. This highlights how, for many, jewelry is not just an accessory but a symbol of connection and sentiment.
Closing Thoughts
Whether it’s a necklace passed down through generations or a newly bought ring that signifies young love, the value of jewelry is much more than its material worth. It captures moments, tells stories, and, most importantly, connects us to the people we hold dear.
From rings to necklaces, and everything in between, Shane Co. offers a wide selection that caters to every taste and occasion. Make your next jewelry purchase not just another item in the collection, but a meaningful milestone that will be remembered for years to come.
Methodology
To gather these insights, we conducted a comprehensive survey of 2,000 Americans between August and September. Our questionnaire asked about a variety of topics, from the first piece of jewelry respondents ever received to the first piece they gifted, as well as the emotions and memories associated with these inaugural experiences. This diverse range of questions allowed us to capture a nuanced picture of how jewelry serves as more than just an accessory — it’s a marker of significant life events and relationships.
