Diamond Necklaces Are A Girl’s Best Friend—But I Chose This Trendy Style Instead (Plus Valentine’s Day Self-Gifting Ideas)

If you’re like me, much of the jewelry you own has been gifted to you by your significant other or a loved one. I prefer gold jewelry, so my husband has given me some very nice gold items over the years, including a sweet diamond necklace. I rarely gift fine jewelry to myself, which means I haven’t chosen much of my collection, which includes a gold ring and gold ball stud earrings, myself. In the past, I have purchased only a handful of my pieces, mostly from online jeweler, Aurate. I love their designs—they create gorgeous and quality jewelry at great prices.

I rarely wear my delicate jewelry; I only select them for special occasions. I worry about damaging my fine jewelry as I go about my usual activities: Walking the dog, cleaning the house, writing and crafting, etc. I have long wanted something more substantial and durable that I can wear daily. Recently, I have found the perfect option, an Aurate large paperclip chain necklace. In gold vermeil/sterling silver, it is 22 inches long—I tend to prefer longer necklaces that aren’t tight against my neck and are visible no matter what I’m wearing—such as even if I am wearing a soft winter sweater or cozy sweatshirt.

I am so pleased with this gold-plated necklace! It’s beautiful, drapes well and has a nice weight to it; I don’t have to worry about it breaking if it gets caught on my clothing or something else as I go about my day as some of my more delicate necklaces might.

I wear my new necklace almost every day now; it complements just about any outfit, whether it’s casual sportswear or a pretty sweater with a skirt or even yoga pants. This necklace has now become my go-to necklace!

If you prefer a delicate look, Aurate also offers a medium paperclip necklace with smaller links—it looks nice layering two necklaces! I’m happy to discover that my paperclip necklace also looks great with my Aurate hoop and stud earrings.

I love my Aurate earrings since they are so well made and go with just about anything.

I also like to pair my new Aurate necklace with my beautiful gold Aurate ring that I got a few years ago.

I have to say that giving myself permission to treat myself to something nice (and not having to wait for someone else to do it) feels great! Aurate offers lots of wonderful options—from diamonds to gemstones to gold and sterling silver—for self-gifting (or gifting someone you love) this Valentine’s Day!

Self-Gifting on Valentine’s Day

Jewelry isn’t the only way you can show yourself some self-love on Valentine’s Day, however. While much of the day is about showing love to the people you care about, there’s no reason you can’t turn some of that kindness inward, too. These ideas are also great ways to celebrate you any time of year—because treating yourself shouldn’t be reserved for only one day.

• Gift yourself with something, special whether it’s jewelry, flowers or a special treat, like chocolate or a delicious espresso.
• Connect with a friend, such as by meeting them for a lunch date or reaching out via text.
• Do your body good: Practice some yoga, go for a walk or a run, or eat a big, healthy salad
• Pamper yourself: Enjoy a relaxing bath or enjoy a rejuvenating eye, face or hand mask
• Allow yourself a few moments of relaxation—enjoy a craft, stream a movie, or squeeze in a few extra minutes of sleep by going to bed a little earlier or getting up a bit later.
• Visit your favorite restaurant or order-in something delicious.

Here’s wishing everyone a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

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