Most are familiar with the more common Mom-themed jewelry, such as rings set with children's birthstones or jewelry with the words, "Mother" or "Grand Mother" spelled out on them. Delicate Mother's Day rings can be found with genuine stones set in a variety of metals, in addition to the 14k gold typically seen in the past. One might choose a birthstone band which can be personalized with alternating names and birthstones around the ring. A Mother's Day necklace might be made of Murano glass beads strung on 14K gold or sterling silver. Another options still might be a family pendant featuring stylized family members holding hands in a circle.

Whether you choose a traditional gift or something more unique, it is a good idea to take a good look at the type of jewelry your Mother wears and consider a few things prior to making your purchase:

1. Does Mom prefer jewelry made with white or yellow metals?

2. Does she like to wear stud earrings or perhaps she prefers short dangles?

3. Has she ever specifically stated interest in a particular type of jewelry?

4. Does she collect vintage jewelry?

If you would like to choose something less traditional for Mom, consider stackable rings, which can be set with one to three birthstones and engraved on each side. Stacked together, the rings can display Mom's birthstone next to her children's, or a special friend or spouse.

Exciting new trends in Mother's jewelry are Mother's bracelets which can range from those personalized with children's names to bracelets that resemble a delicate tennis bracelet. Or, choose one that spells the family name with sterling silver beads. Today's charm bracelets are unique creations that represent the special moments which comprise a woman's life. Moreover, charm bracelets are an especially winning choice for Mom because they can be expanded each year with a new charm! Each child might choose a special charm for Mom's bracelet - from charms that represent her favorite pastimes to inspired designs set with semi-precious stones. Some jewelry lines even offer necklaces and earrings that can be matched with a charm bracelet.

Mother's lockets, depicting Mothers and children, are a sentimental choice, and come with a bonus - a place to display a tiny picture of you as a baby. Lockets may be chosen which feature filigree designs and can be opened to arrange the birthstone crystals of children or grandchildren.

If your Mother does not prefer to wear jewelry, consider a watch. Dressy, casual or sporty - there's a watch to suit every personality. Buyers can choose from Citizen, Michele, Omega, Baume & Mercier, Tag Heuer, Breitling, and more. Each represents a variety of styles and prices to match your budget.

Vintage costume jewelry may be a good choice for the Mom who likes to make a bold statement with her jewelry. When looking for vintage jewelry, look for quality such as pronged settings, substantial weight, smooth plating, and sparkling stones. Avoid plating that is extremely worn, darkened or cloudy rhinestones, missing parts or stones, and scratched or chipped enamel. These attributes will lower the value of the vintage piece. Ask the dealer you purchase from to provide some background information on the piece you are purchasing. These little tidbits, included on a card with Mom's gift, make owning the piece even more meaningful.

Perhaps Mom has enough jewelry already. Why not consider a jewelry box providing stylized storage for all of Mom's treasures? Jewelry boxes come in whimsical and sophisticated designs - from high-gloss lacquered styles to exquisite Mother-of-pearl containers to sculpted wood. Jewelry boxes make their own decorative statement and safely store Mom's collection.