Justin Timberlake Issues Apology to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson. Following the release of the 'Framing Britney Spears' documentary, . Timberlake took to Instagram to apologize for benefiting "from a system that condones misogyny and racism."....

Justin Timberlake Issues Apology to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson. Following the release of the 'Framing Britney Spears' documentary, . Timberlake took to Instagram to apologize for benefiting "from a system that condones misogyny and racism."....

With loved-up Aussies tipped to splurge over $1billion this Valentine’s Day, a former royal jeweller has revealed how you could save a mint.

A recent survey by Finder revealed 1 in 3 Australians planned to lavish their loved ones on February 14 - to the tune of a whopping $1.1 billion.

But Ben Tracy - who worked on Queen Elizabeth II’s priceless collection during his decade-long tenure as a royal jeweller - says it’s not just a numbers game.

“It’s not the price of the ring or the necklace that matters, it’s the significance behind it,” says Ben, owner of Finelines Jewellers in Robina, Gold Coast.

One of Ben’s biggest challenges during his employment with House of Garrard, the British royal family’s official Crown Jeweller, was refurbishing one of the Queen’s ancient diamond tiaras, named Anthemion.

Ben Tracy is a jeweller to the stars. Credit: Supplied

The lauded finished headpiece - which doubled as a necklace - was a gift for Princess Sophie of Wessex.

“She wore it on her wedding day to Prince Edward, the Queen’s youngest son,” says Ben, an award-winning jeweller.

Remember the huge, sparkling engagement ring footballer David Beckham gave his wife, Victoria? Ben did that too.

He also created a specially cut diamond pendant for Hollywood A-lister Brad Pitt. It contained a secret message from his then-wife Angelina Jolie.

One of Ben’s biggest challenges was refurbishing one of the Queen’s ancient diamond tiaras.

“But I’ll never reveal what that message contained. I respect my clients”, privacy,’ Ben says.

The Gold Coast dad has created many pieces for high-ranking Hollywood royalty.

And yet, despite having worked on multi-million dollar treasures, Ben says the true value of a jewellery gift transcends its material value.

“If it comes from the heart and is made with love, the recipient will treasure it forever. It’s like the first sticky paintings our children give us - those memories are priceless.”

Here are the surf-loving dad’s top tips for last-minute V-Day gifts:

• Don’t be duped by sale signs. Did you know that many jewellery retailers mark up their prices for some time, ONLY so they can be marked down for a sale? It’s a big industry secret.

• Don’t panic buy jewellery. It’s a complete waste of money because it’s disingenuous. Your partner will most likely prefer something thoughtful, personal and from the heart. Even if it’s just a hand-written card, recalling fond memories from your first date.

• Size doesn’t always matter. This might be a hotly disputed claim in many different conversations! But in the jewellery industry, focussing on the creative design and the quality is much more important than the gem’s size. Think about your lover and their hobbies and interests. Pick a style to match. If your partner loves rock-climbing and scuba-diving, a big ostentatious ring will be completely impractical.

• Don’t go OTT in a new relationship. I get it, you’re completely besotted and want the world to know it. But if it’s a relatively new relationship, I advise my clients less is more. Perhaps a simple, fine chain with their initial, rather than a diamond ring.

• Don’t go too clichéd. For most people, something simple, elegant and discreet is better than a big, brash love heart pendant. However, there are always exceptions to the rule.

• Don’t let your love lose its sparkle. If your budget allows, choose something precious that lasts forever. Platinum is my first choice. If you’re on a tight budget, go for silver over gold-plated because the gold plating wears off over time.

• True love isn’t supposed to hurt. Cheap earrings made of base metal often leave the wearer with painful ears because they can cause reactions. You’re generally safe with gold or platinum. But if that’s out of your price range, I’d recommend a bracelet over something that penetrates the skin.

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Valentine’s Day gift dos and don’ts according to a former jeweller to the Queen