How to choose a gift that feels personal

Start with the person, not just the word “grandparent”. Does Nan wear a necklace every day? Does Grandad prefer something practical? Would they enjoy a new photograph more than another object for the shelf?

A keepsake works best when the picture, message and format all suit them. Choose one clear memory and give it room to shine. These ideas suit birthdays, Christmas, a first grandchild or a simple thank-you for everything they do.

Eight personalised keepsakes to carry or wear

1. A photo necklace

A necklace from our photo necklace collection can hold a favourite grandchild’s smile or a family moment. Choose the shape, colour and chain option that suit the person who will wear it.

2. A duo photo necklace

A two-pendant design can be useful when two individual portraits work better than a tightly cropped group photo. Explore the necklace collection and check the particular design’s materials and engraving choices rather than relying on its name alone.

3. A fingerprint keepsake

Fingerprint jewellery uses an original print as the engraving artwork. Very small or faint prints may not provide enough detail, so ask for an assessment before promising a baby’s fingerprint gift.

4. A handwriting keyring

A handwriting keyring preserves the character of a grandchild’s writing. A simple “Love you Nan” or “Best Grandad” in their own letters can be wonderfully recognisable.

5. A photo keyring

A personalised photo keyring is a practical option for someone who does not wear jewellery. A relaxed portrait often makes a stronger engraving than a busy scene with lots of tiny faces.

6. A fingerprint keyring

A fingerprint keyring offers another way to carry an original print. Use a clear scan or photograph of the print, keep the original safe and have the image checked first if needed.

7. A photo leather bracelet

A photo leather bracelet suits a grandparent who likes this style of jewellery. Check the bracelet size and materials on the listing before choosing it as a surprise.

8. An engraved wallet card

A photo wallet card carries a memory in a familiar everyday place. Our wallet cards are aluminium and credit-card sized; check your chosen design’s personalisation options before ordering.

Four gifts that celebrate time together

9. A family photo book

Include captions written by the grandchildren: names, dates and their favourite memories. A smaller, carefully chosen collection can be easier to enjoy than hundreds of unlabelled pictures.

10. A framed family portrait

Print a clear photograph that includes the people they love. Think about where it will live, and choose a size and frame that suit the room rather than automatically choosing the biggest.

11. An afternoon together

Plan lunch, a garden visit, a simple picnic or a favourite walk. Include a date or a few options in the card and make the practical arrangements easy for them.

12. A letter or recorded family memories

Ask the children what they love about their grandparent and write down the answers. Or record a conversation with their permission. Small details about favourite games, stories and snacks are often the most touching.

Choosing photos when there are several grandchildren

A group photo can work if the faces are clear and close enough together for the engraving area. A wide photograph with everyone far from the camera may lose the details you most want to keep.

Start with the original file where possible. Avoid heavily filtered pictures and screenshots when you can send a sharper image. If you want several children included, ask Emma about the most suitable design and crop before placing the order.

The free Photo Check is useful for older family pictures too. Emma can assess faded or damaged photographs and explain whether they are a suitable starting point. Keep the original photo safely at home and send a digital image for checking.

A first-time grandparent gift with room to grow

For a new Nan, Grandma or Grandad, a baby photograph, original handprint or footprint can mark the start of a new relationship. Browse handprint and footprint jewellery for designs that use a print image.

There is no need to rush a keepsake before you have a picture you love. You could give a letter or a planned afternoon together first, then choose the engraving image once the family has a favourite.

If the gift remembers someone the grandparent has lost, gently check what would feel comforting. A happy photograph can hold several meanings, and the recipient should be able to decide how they want to carry that memory.

Finishing touches that make the gift theirs

Add a card explaining why you chose the photograph or words. Name the moment: “This is the day you taught us to make your apple crumble.” That little story turns an attractive keepsake into something unmistakably personal.

Gemz By Emz has been creating personalised keepsakes since 2011, with Emma preparing images before engraving. Standard pendants and charms are surgical steel; selected single heart and circle necklaces offer sterling silver chain options. Check each listing for the exact materials, measurements and choices.

Orders include a complimentary gift box and free UK tracked delivery. Allow time for personalisation and transit, and check the current turnaround before ordering for a special date.

Frequently asked questions