Putting your money in the stock market is sketchy, at best, so why not make a wise investment in one of these forever keepsakes? Give one for a milestone occasion, and thoughtful dividends are virtually guaranteed.

Have a graduation or big anniversary this spring? Let's face it, no ordinary gift will do. You want a present with meaning, and finding one that has it is a tricky task, even in flush times. (Of course, the thought of something lasting looms large, too.) Yes, traditional gifts are as predictable as a valedictorian's speech; a pen, cuff links, watch, leather briefcase or jewelry comes to mind. But classic doesn't always mean boring: The contemporary versions of these—a sleek, jeweled pen; a pave diamond bangle, an alligator skin briefcase, an oversized luxe watch—all feel so of-the-moment, right now. Yet, they also have a timeless appeal that makes these future heirlooms very splurge-worthy. Besides, when you think of how many years of use it will get, the investment doesn't seem so bad. The value goes a long way in the eyes of the recipient, too.