Skip to next element

CANVASES, CARATS AND CURIOSITIES

Old Treasures, New Beginnings: Unique Gifts for Graduates

Looking for a gift for an upcoming graduate? From jewelry to art, discover the joy in giving the gift of antiques to those embarking on a new adventure!

As the hallowed halls of academia open their doors to release a new generation of scholars, it's time to honor their remarkable achievements with a college graduation gift that reflects their unique journey. A gift of fine art, exquisite jewelry or cherished antiques not only celebrates their graduation but also serves as a timeless reminder of their intellectual pursuits and personal growth. From writing utensils to collectible staples, help your grad embark upon adulthood with style and give them a gift that speaks to their individual interests and personality. So, what is a good graduation gift? Peruse our gift guide to gather ideas!
 
Jewelry
 
Rose Luster South Sea Pearl Necklace, 17-20.6mm. M.S. Rau.
 
Rose Luster South Sea Pearl Necklace, 17-20.6mm. M.S. Rau.
 
I will never forget my high school graduation gift from my parents. I fully expected a new laptop, but instead, the gift was relatively small and lightweight. I tried to mask my disappointment as I unwrapped the present, only to be wonderfully surprised by a beautiful string of convertible opera length pearls. Whereas I had few occasions to wear these pearls at the age of 18, over the years I have cherished pulling them out for special occasions, including my wedding!
 
Rare antique jewelry stands as a lasting symbol of your graduate's hard work, dedication and perseverance. Whether it's a pair of diamond earrings, a pearl necklace or a statement ring, fine jewelry acts as a source of inspiration and confidence as they embark on their nascent adulthood.
 
Watches
 
Patek Philippe Diamond Watch. 20th Century. M.S. Rau.
 
Patek Philippe Diamond Watch. 20th Century. M.S. Rau.
 
Every working adult remembers the pains of adjusting to a 9 to 5 workday. Whereas it was once simple to sneak in undetected into the back row of a populated lecture hall, arriving late to a company-wide morning meeting is far less excusable. Help your college graduate out by gifting them the gift of punctuality with style they can appreciate. Beyond its practicality, a luxury watch is a statement of style, sophistication and a mark of their entry into the professional world. As an accessory that accompanies the graduate through every major milestone in their career, help them put their best food forward with a handshake that signals their refined taste.
 
Stock the bar
 
Art Deco Tantalus by Louis Prodhon. Circa 1930. M.S. Rau.
 
Art Deco Tantalus by Louis Prodhon. Circa 1930. M.S. Rau.
 

Soon after I signed the lease to my first solo apartment, I began planning a housewarming party wherein I would lay out my nicest platters and silverware to debut my family recipes, apartment decor and overall hospitality to my favorite people. With my humble paycheck, I was delighted to embark upon a new world of fine wines and creative cocktails. Though I had inherited a few important pieces from my parents’ advantageous “downsizing” a few years prior, I quickly realized that for a toast I had only a few small wine tumblers. Embarrassed by my leftover collegiate glassware, I decided to invest in stylish libation accessories.

 
Airplane Cocktail Shaker Set. Circa 1928. M.S. Rau.
 
Airplane Cocktail Shaker Set. Circa 1928. M.S. Rau.
 

In a world where celebrations and milestones are commemorated with toasts and clinks of glasses, these antique bar accessories elevate the art of mixology to new heights. From exquisite crystal decanters that exude elegance to intricately designed cocktail shakers that embody craftsmanship, these luxurious items can become an integral part of your favorite graduate's journey as they entertain and host gatherings. A thoughtful gift of luxury bar accessories serves as an important reminder that life is meant to be savored, celebrated and shared, so allow your grad the ability to craft memorable experiences while toasting to their achievements and the exciting path that lies ahead.

 

How to pick the perfect gift

 
Terrestrial 30-inch Globe by W. & A.K. Johnston. 1890. M.S. Rau.
 
Terrestrial 30-inch Globe by W. & A.K. Johnston. 1890. M.S. Rau.
 

Embarking on a career path after graduation can be a both frustrating and wonderful journey of self-discovery and exploration. While some graduates have a clear direction in mind, many find themselves navigating various opportunities and passions before finding their true calling.

 

Comically, I initially pursued a double major in elementary education and art, only to later graduate with a degree in history, with aspirations of entering academia or law school. Though life's unexpected turns led me down a different path, it was during this transformative period that my grandfather, a retired lawyer, bestowed upon me a gift of profound sentimental value— his antique bronze scales of justice. This extraordinary objet d'art, which had graced his office throughout his career, conveyed a deep understanding of my thirst for knowledge, my affinity for the past and my determination to pursue a fulfilling vocation rooted in intellectual pursuits.

 

The significance of receiving a thoughtful gift like an antique globe from a loved one that acknowledges and honors our curiosities and passions cannot be overstated. When unsure about where to begin in selecting a gift, there is no better starting point than the recipient's passions and interests.

 

Science

 
Swiss NEMA Cipher Machine. 1946.M.S. Rau.
 
Swiss NEMA Cipher Machine. 1946. M.S. Rau.
 

Do you know an aspiring doctor, engineer or scientific researcher? Delve into the fascinating world of science-related antiques, where history and discovery intertwine. These remarkable treasures not only serve as tangible links to the past but also symbolize the awe-inspiring journey of scientific advancement. Each antique, whether it be an antique machine or a fascinating clock, reveals the dedication and ingenuity of the great minds that came before us. By presenting a college graduate with science-related antiques, you are acknowledging their intellectual curiosity, passion for exploration and commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

 
Sailor's Navigation Cane. 19th Century. M.S. Rau.
 
Sailor's Navigation Cane. 19th Century. M.S. Rau.
 
Sailor's Navigation Cane. 19th Century. M.S. Rau.
 

Humanities

 
Illuminated Manuscript Painting by the German School. Early 16th Century. M.S. Rau.
 
Illuminated Manuscript Painting by the German School. Early 16th Century. M.S. Rau.
 

Is your graduate a book lover with an insatiable thirst for the past? Give your graduate a humanities-related antique, where the past gracefully converges with the present. These exquisite antiques hold within them the stories of bygone eras, wisdom of ancient civilizations and artistic inspirations and expressions of the human spirit. As a gateway to a different world, invite your graduate to explore the depths of literature, philosophy, history and the arts. In a world that so often values progress and technology, the gift of humanities-related antiques provides a tangible reminder of the timeless power and enduring relevance of humanistic pursuits, allowing the graduate to carry the torch of cultural heritage and shape the future with wisdom and grace.

 
Ethiopian Mezezo Chocolate Opal Specimen. 1990. M.S. Rau.
 
Ethiopian Mezezo Chocolate Opal Specimen. 1990. M.S. Rau.
 

Closing
As this class of college graduates embarks on a new chapter of their lives, the gifts they receive should reflect the magnitude of their accomplishments and the promising futures that await them. May these extraordinary gifts ignite the graduates' passions, forever cherished as they navigate the path ahead. Congrats to your grad!

WANT MORE BLOGS AND ARTICLES LIKE THIS?

Sign up below to be the first to know about new acquisitions, exhibits, blogs and more.

back to top
back to top