If you're looking for a gift that displays the money you put into it, the idea of pearls is great. Possibly time to pass on those of one of the grandmothers? That would be very meaningful. If they are heirlooms, it could almost be seen as a right of passage.
The gift of time together is a lot to us kids, even if we don't say it. PS, we rarely say it.
The gift of buying her books for next semester, if the plan was for her to purchase them herself, is HUGE.
okay PJ
This isn't Jr High or the Endzone.
Ouch.best gift I got was a microwave the teachers at my moms school all pitched in to get me. Also a sweet tv/vcr combo and a 486/25mhz computer. Add in the 14.4 modem and I could download pics in under 5min
bolded the key part since it seems tough for you. It's ok, everyone learns at different speeds
In all seriousness, I'd write her a very personal letter and let her know how proud of her you are and how much you're looking forward to seeing her continue to grow, learn, and expand her horizons. I would also include a nice sized check and explain that you had thought of a gazillion things you would like to buy for her, but that you also wanted to make sure she used the money to get what she wanted most... and then I'd take her shopping and explain what you enjoy most is spending time with her.
I don't see how giving a credit card to an 18 year old girl is a good idea imo.
My bank has a student starter account that is a joint account with me as the co-owner. I can see all transactions and make sure they aren't out-spending their accounts. The account included a master card with a $500 limit to help them learn how to manage credit as well as cash.
Of course now that they are graduated and married, they both want me to take my name off the account but I keep forgetting to make the call...