Even the most jaded amongst us can't resist something sparkly around February 14, especially when it comes from someone we love. In the spirit of true romance, The Inside Source tapped three of eBay's top jewelry sellers to offer up ideas on what's best to buy for Valentine's Day 2010. Whether you're giving or receiving, these picks are sure to please.
Joe Ladin of SFLMaven
Top-rated seller Joe Ladin of SFL Maven prides himself on offering well-priced jewels, antiques and art and offering ultra-friendly service. Most sales at his Dania Beach, Fla.-based eBay store start with a very low bid and no reserve so that buyers get the best possible deal. For Valentine's Day, Ladin suggests going the traditional route:
From left to right:
18K Yellow Gold Necklace With Citrine and Diamond Pendant (current bid, $268.50) "Every woman loves and appreciates diamonds on Valentine's day," says Ladin. This chain link necklace and pendant, with 12 citrine gems and a .4 carat diamond, is a unique alternative to the typical white gold and diamond solitaire version."
Rolex 18K Yellow Gold Presidential Diamond Men's Watch (current bid, $1,901) Ladin promises that a high-quality watch is always a top choice for men. This self-winding Rolex model is spruced-up with a diamond bezel, yellow gold hands and diamond hour marks. "We've got lots of brand names at low prices," boasts the seller.
18K Gold 1980 Tiffany and Co. Elsa Peretti Love Earrings (current bid, 109.50) Unsurprisingly, Ladin says his team makes sure to "have lots of heart-shaped jewelry available around this time of year." While the shape may be a cliche, Elsa Peretti's loose interpretation for Tiffany is irresistible.
2. Charlie Hollander of Gem Stone King
New York-based seller Hollander is best-known for his vast selection of diamonds, but he sells every kind of fine jewelry on his comprehensive eBay store. For those looking for an affordable alternative to the traditional stone this Valentine's Day, Hollander recommends the following:
From left to right:
Tanzanite Sterling Silver Ring (buy it now price, $29.99) Tanzanite is great alternative to diamonds. This blue sterling silver ring is ornate and decadent. "Colored stones are quite popular these days," says Hollander.
Multicolor Freshwater Cultured Pearl Necklace (current bid, $5.50) "We're seeing a bid demand for pearls right now," says Hollander. These freshwater cultured pearls are a colorful alternative to the typical white or grey. And the 34" length is great for layering with other necklaces.
Genuine Diamond and Sterling Silver Ring (buy it now price, $225) And for those who simply must have diamonds but can't afford the hefty price tag, Hollander says the answer is sterling silver. "There's a bigger demand for silver and diamond combinations than in the past." This art nouveau-inspired sterling silver ring has a half carat worth of diamonds.
3. Matthew Becker of Beckertime
Launched by Keller, Texas-based father-son team Gordon and Matthew Becker over a decade ago, Beckertime specializes in vintage and pre-owned Rolex watches, bringing in an average of $750,000 in sales each month. For Valentine's Day, Matthew suggests these pieces:
From left to right:
Ladies 18K Yellow Gold President Diamond Rolex (starting bid, $7,999.99) A Rolex drenched in diamonds will make the even the most discerning woman happy, says Becker. "It's magic for her wrist." This particular model boasts over 3 carats of diamonds and a unique gold face.
Men's 18K White Gold Rolex Fluted Bezel (buy it now price, $349.99)
If that special someone in your life happens to already be an avid Rolex collector, a new bezel is a nice accoutrement. "It's the perfect complement to any Rolex," promises Becker. This fluted version will fit any full-size men's Rolex watch.
Men's Stainless Steel Air King Rolex (buy it now price, $2,999.99)
For guys used to wearing $20 timepieces, a classic Rolex with minimal frills is a good first piece. This vintage Air King is self-winding with a subtle silver dial and stainless steel strap. "His wrist will no longer feel naked," Becker declares.
For more Valentine's Day ideas, check out our Valentine's Day Gift Guide and Chic, Not Cheesy heart shaped jewelry roundup.
Lauren Sherman is a fashion and culture writer based in Brooklyn. She currently works as an editor at Fashionista.com.
