The short answer: christening and naming day jewellery is usually small, gentle and made to be kept, such as a pendant, a charm to start a bracelet or a keepsake piece, personalised with the child's name and date. Choose smooth designs and plan for the piece to be stored until the child is old enough to wear it.
These ceremonies welcome a child into a family or community. A piece of jewellery can last as a keepsake for many years.
Ideas
| Gift | Notes |
|---|---|
| Charm | Start a charm bracelet for later. |
| Pendant | A birthstone or a small cross or symbol. |
| Bangle | A very small one, or a larger one to grow into. |
| Keepsake box | A piece stored safely until later. |
Safety
Babies and small children put things in their mouths, so jewellery for the very young is best kept as a keepsake to be stored, not worn. Follow safety guidance for children, and wait until the child is old enough to wear it safely and under supervision.
Designing for the future
A christening gift is often worn for the first time many years later, at a birthday, a coming of age or a wedding. It helps to design with that adult in mind. A classic pendant on a chain that can be swapped for a longer one, or a charm that can join a bracelet, will feel right at eighteen as well as at two. Simple shapes and good quality metal age well.
Choosing a metal
Gold and platinum are the traditional choices for a keepsake that will be kept for decades. Yellow gold has a warm, classic look, and white metals give a cleaner, modern feel. We help you weigh durability, colour and budget when we plan the design.
Personalising
The child's name, the date and a short message are classic choices. Ask us about the engraving options for the piece you choose. A message on the back of a pendant stays protected and private. See engraving ideas for pendants.
Birthstones
Choose the child's birthstone for a personal touch. See birthstones by month.
Traditions
Customs around gifts differ by family, faith and country. In some families godparents give the gift, and in others it comes from grandparents or close friends. Ask a parent what feels right.
Starting something that grows
A single charm can be the first of many. A relative can add a charm at each birthday, so the bracelet tells the child's story by the time they are old enough to wear it. See charm bracelets and heirloom charms.
Storing the piece
Keep the piece in a soft pouch or a lined box, away from other jewellery, and write down who gave it and when. A short note adds to its meaning later. A letter from the giver, kept with the piece, can make the moment it is finally handed over even more special.
Planning
Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing. Our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are, and delivery comes on top. Delivery is by insured, tracked FedEx. If you live outside the UK, you pay any import duty and tax that apply in your country.
- Choose the piece.
- Add the name and date.
- Order in good time before the ceremony.
Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Should a baby wear it? We suggest keeping it as a keepsake until the child is older.
Can I add to it later? A charm bracelet makes that easy.
Is gold appropriate? Yes, if it suits the family.
Can the date be added? Ask us about the options.
Can several relatives give one piece together? Yes, and a shared gift often allows a more lasting piece.