Important holiday shopping fact: some things are cheaper in December — and by “some” things we mean “expensive” things. Wait! Don’t rush out and spend in response to holiday sales – that’s for suckers. But if you’ve got the money to buy any of the following items, December might present the time take action.

Prices for jewelry fall during the holiday season.

Prices for jewelry fall during the holiday season.

Jewelery prices are lower in December than they are any other time of year. The drop in prices for trinkets of gold and silver is so reliable that economists have to tack on to them 3 percent around now when doing their economicky work. The reason? Retailers want only for you to choose their store and they know SALE signs work wonders for achieving that goal.

 

If you're watching television prices, you'll see they fall lowest in December and January.

If you’re watching television prices, you’ll see they fall lowest in December and January.

Television prices fall predictably in December and January, for a good reason: retailers know you’re weak. Once in their stores, you’re bound to pick up some headphones as stocking-stuffers and maybe the laptop you’ll need for those New Year’s resolutions. (Computer prices fall a teensy bit now but drop much lower in April.)

Gas guzzling is always bad but best over the holidays, when prices predictably fall almost 10 percent.

Gas guzzling is always bad but best over the holidays, when prices predictably fall almost 10 percent.

Santa’s sleigh goes global in December perhaps because now’s when gasoline sink. So if you’re planning a road trip that involves filling ‘er up, it’s time to travel. Economists have proved that gas prices fall almost 10 percent in December – they rise every summer – so winter is when we should take advantage of this unofficial sale.

Lots of pig slaughtering is what makes cheap holiday hams possible.

Lots of pig slaughtering is what makes cheap holiday hams possible.

All pork products – Christmas hams in particular – are cheaper in December. Mostly because farmers go slaughter-crazy in response to our oven roasted traditions. Large supply big always lowers prices.