My dad gave me my very first watch (his dad bought it for him). It was just small enough for a 10-year-old to love and wear…scratches, worn leather and all. I loved, make that love that watch. My second watch also came from dad. It was his very first jogging watch (cool! digital numbers!). That watch got him through a handful of marathons, and I guess he thought it would help me get through my own “marathons.”

Yes, I was, make that am a daddy’s girl—spoiled in every way. You dads know exactly what I’m talking about. That watch told me more than the time. It told me that dad recognized I was growing up.

So what is it about your little girl, this amazing young woman, and jewelry from you? Simple: it makes her feel all grown up; it makes her feel feminine and pretty (I know, that’s a whole other barrel of worries!). But more importantly, it means trust and responsibility. You’re telling her that you think she’s old enough to appreciate and take care of a really nice piece of jewelry—that you support her as an adult as much as you cherished her as a little girl. What a wonderful feeling! Finally…adulthood!

So how do you know what to get her? Watch. Pay attention to what catches her eye if you’re out together. Start learning her style and her individuality. Pay close attention to what her friends are wearing. I know one dad who will ask his daughter, “So was that a cool thing so-and-so was wearing?” Then, store all this information for later use.

To get you started though, here are a few ideas to consider. And trust me, these items are even more meaningful coming from you.

• ID bracelet: This is often the first “grown-up” piece of jewelry a little girl receives.

• Locket: This sentimental favorite will find a home in her jewelry box, and her daughter’s, and her daughter’s…

• Earrings: It’s just a fact of life: most little girls want to get their ears pierced. Why not take her to get them pierced (or at least give her permission) and buy her a pair of earrings—her first pair of earrings.

• Pearls: Not a strand of pearls, Dad, but an add-a-pearl necklace. Every birthday or special occasion, you simply buy another pearl to add to the necklace. Relatives can get in on this, too. She could easily have a strand by Sweet 16.

• Her first watch: I don’t know, but there’s something about your very first watch coming from Dad. Kids always remember their first watch, and hopefully hold onto it to pass down. This also is an easier purchase for you. You may feel more comfortable choosing a watch than choosing some of the other pieces.

The greatest gift you could receive this Father’s Day is her thanks for letting her grow up!

Just click here to find a jeweler who can help you choose that perfect token of support. Happy Father’s Day, Dad!