Ideas for Valentine’s Day Gifts

First published in That's Zhejiang on 1 February 2012.

For Him

Are his shirts built for cufflinks? What better way is there to complete his refined look than with One Bond Street's ultra English sterling silver cufflinks? Fresh from London, he will be impressed by the attention you pay to the details. This quintessentially British brand is suitable for any occasions, like the sky blue half Jack cufflinks. Crafted with Union Jack in mind, it makes an eye catching piece for the modern day gents. Their lime green quarter Jack cufflinks, on the other hand, gives the classy look a quirky twist, expressing his refined taste. What is so special about this gift? You can get a matching pair for yourself as well, and pull off a slightly androgynous couple’s look!

Is he a fan of the Chinese culture? Get him Patinova’s handmade sterling silver Chinese dragon cufflinks, which is pippin’ hot off the sketch board. The mastermind behind Patinova, Ben Huang, replicated the century old miniature dragon paperweight from early 1900s, right in time for the coming year of dragon. And what is the best part of this gift? Patinova specialises in creating contemporary jewelry from historical objects, so if he likes this pair of cufflinks, then you can also get him the dragon pendants for his birthday, and the dragon charms for your anniversary. Saves having to think up another set of gifts for different occasions!

For Her

Want to spell it out to her how much you care? Victoria Contreras offers necklaces with a poetic touch, literally. Crafted with a laser cut, each necklace bears a favorite quote of the designer, from classics by renowned laureates like Virginia Woolf and T.S. Elliot. This is a beautiful yet subtle way to tell her just how much you treasure her. Do the two of you have a secret code? You can always customise a necklace with a personal message!

Is she the religious sort? Or does she (or you) fancy the Covent schoolgirl look? Taka, designed and handmade by Coney Ko in Hong Kong, creates beautiful necklace inspired by the rosary, with matching earrings, brooches, and rings for an added touch of modern vintage elegance. These chic pieces will make her to stand out from the mass, and add an attractive spark to her work wear. Definitely a piece that she can be wearing daily, flaunting just how thoughtful her other half is.

Shopping List
One Bond Street: http://www.onebondstreet.com/
Patinova: http://www.patinova.com/
Victoria Contreras: http://www.victoriacontreras.com/VICBIJOUX/
Taka: http://www.taka.com.hk/site/