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Indians responding to compliments by making a gift of the item?

I love Indian (as in India, not Native Americans) jewelry and clothing and am wondering about something that has happened when I have complimented women on their appearance. I told a woman who was a customer in a shop I work at that I thought the shawl she wore was very beautiful and she told me she made it and insisted very sweetly that I take it as a gift. I thanked her as well as I could. Then today, I was in a restaurant and complimented the server on her earrings and tol her how pretty they were. She removed them immediately and also insisted I have them. Both times I refused the gift and only accepted when the lady repeatedly insisted. My question is this: Is this a cultural tradtion and I should be aware of NOT complimenting items because the owner feels obligated to give it? Or am I supposed to reciprocate? I certainly don't want to take advantage of someone being so kind hearted and generous. Does anyone know how to best handle this? Beyond saying Thank You of course.

Public Comments

1. Insist taking it, and just let them know that you're NOT about to take it. You should be able to compliment them, though. Please answer mine? I really want to know http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AhtjnrrkOMbPb_JL5.8_przsy6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20100606143054AAbL9tn Thanks!