The Maid of Honor is more than your best friend. She is your right-hand lady when the relatives start acting up; your most honest opinion when your makeup smudges; and your biggest supporter when you finally say "I do." Let her know you recognize her efforts with bridesmaid jewelry that distinguishes her from the rest of the girls. And remember, the prettier she looks at the wedding, the prettier and happier she'll want to make you.



1. Differentiate Her

She's your Maid of Honor for a reason! You've made that clear behind the scenes - now flaunt it at the ceremony by giving her a piece of jewelry that differentiates her at the alter. Add to her gift a matching bracelet or pair of earrings; choose a slightly different color or larger gemstone; or give her a gold chain versus the other bridesmaids' sterling silver. We're quite sure that if she looks the part, she'll want to play it also.

2. Celebrate Her Style

If your maid of h onor wouldn't be caught dead most days without her favorite emerald pendant necklace, keep that in mind when you're shopping for her. Alternate her signature stone with pearls around a single chain, or choose a similar necklace style with a different gemstone. She'll feel more comfortable in something slightly familiar - and the less attention she pays to her own appearance, the more she can pay to yours. Along the same vein, if you know her jewelry box is filled with sterling silver and devoid of gold, don't try to change her now. Give her something she'll want to wear later, not to mention something she can match if you leave other accessories up to her.

3. Pick Flattering Gemstone Colors

No maid of honor has ever complained about jewelry that makes her eyes sparkle. If you haven't already taken this into consideration when choosing the bridal party dresses, then remember it when you pick out your Maid of Honor's jewelry. Keep in mind that jewelry that is close to the eyes - like - should be the opposite color of her eyes in order to enhance them. In other words, coral earrings will bring out green eyes; Citrine stones will bring out blue ones. On the other hand, bracelets and necklaces hang far enough away from the eyes that they need to closely match the eye color in order to draw attention to it. Pick slightly deeper, darker hues than the true eye color and she'll be radiant.

4. Thank Her

Though attractive wedding jewelry may be thanks enough, never underestimate the power of words. Give your Maid of Honor a handwritten note the night before the wedding as a preemptive thanks for all of her support. Make it as sappy or humorous as you want, as long as it's personal - this is something that could end up in a scrap book one day.