Love was in the air this Valentine's Day as a number of retailers noted a boost in jewelry sales.

According to the International Diamond Exchange, men and women around the world were saying "I love you" with baubles and trinkets - regardless of burgeoning precious metal prices.

It stated that watches and jewelry sales in New Zealand increased by 52 per cent in the week leading up to February 14th, while one store on the central Californian coast, Marshalls Jewelers, was quoted as saying "It could be our best Valentine's yet".

The Texarkana Gazette stated that the sale of engagement rings in the state had been boosted in recent weeks - with unique bands proving especially popular.

Heart shaped centre diamonds, colored gems and princess-cut stones were all cited as sought after items.

Meanwhile, one lucky lady recently received a belated Valentine's gift from the United Blood Services.

The group invited people to guess when a diamond necklace would fall from the neck of melting ice sculpture, with the winner being able to keep the luxury item.

A winner, who prefers not to be named, was awarded the gift after guessing the nearest time, reports the Bismarck Tribune.