It's Mother's Day on Sunday, 2nd March.

Flowers only last a few days - and if they've been flown half way round the world will they cost the earth - literally? Chocolates hmm... what about the diet? Clothes are difficult to get the size and fit right. But for a significant present full of love and meaning, there's nothing better than a specially chosen item of designer jewellery. Every time she wears it your Mum will think of you. Whenever she opens her jewellery box, there it will be, a lovely reminder of a special day and loving thoughts.

Because it's not a fixed day, Mothering Sunday lands on a different date each year, it's the 2nd March this time around. This is because it's always the middle Sunday in Lent which is the period between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday. We've made it a celebration 'thank you' day for mothers since the 16th Century, so it's been going on for a long time. In those days, winter was a frugal time when food supplies were spun out to last until the weather turned warmer, hens started to lay and crops grew again. Half way through this cold, hungry time the fasting rules were relaxed for a day and everyone had a special 'we're nearly through the winter' meal. All themums went to church and the children found the first spring flowers and little gifts, some new laid eggs maybe and brought them as a present for their mother. Hence, Mothering Sunday and because there were eggs, there was always a cake. Its traditional to have a Simnel cake on Mothering Sunday (and also on Easter Sunday).

In 1648 the famous poet, Robert Herrick wrote...

It'll to thee a Simnell bring,

'Gainst thou go'st a mothering,

So that, when she blesseth thee

Half that blessing thou'lt give to me.

This would be a real treat in those times and it still is today, especially if it's home baked. A Simnell is a traditional fruit cake with the top covered in a layer of marzipan. There should be eleven round balls of marzipan round the edge of the top, the whole thing lightly dusted with icing sugar and, if you can get them, a few crystallized violets, snowdrops or primroses in the centre. Very pretty and tastes heavenly too. (Why eleven marzipan balls? They represent the disciples - Judas, the betrayer, doesn't count.)

The cake will soon be eaten but the gift you gave Mum will be in her heart forever. Why not treat her to a jewellery box? The fine Italian Windrose jewellery boxes are beautifully made and full of intriguing hideaway compartments. Keeping those precious jewels safe is sure to be appreciated.

A nomination bracelet is a special gift and an opportunity to mark all the occasions in life. Nomination bracelets are the style to go for classy Italian style, affordable and easy to wear. If mum already has one, then it's easy, a special charm is the answer and Nomination have thousands to choose from - from birthstones to good luck signs - I loved the little cat charm I was given last Mother's Day. (a puppy this year if you're reading this - pleeeze)!

A designer silver bracelet or pendant or a pair earrings would be a fine gift for a special occasion. Check out Hedva Elaney for a really original handmade piece. Gold, platinum or diamonds if it's an especially big thank you or special celebration. Gold is indestructible, platinum is an especially rare mineral and diamonds really are forever. Take your pick.

If a smaller gesture is what you're aiming for the POM (peace of mind) range of jewellery is simply beautiful. We have a small selection online and lots more in our shop at The Forge. Coeur de Lion is stunning and so well made with sparkling crystals in up to the minute colourways.

All our jewellery is beautifully packaged in silver boxes or pretty pouches. Rings come in solid wood ring boxes for you to keep and treasure.

We have lots more in our shop at the Forge. Navajo jewellery turquoise animal tracker bracelets, fetish necklaces, natural stone earrings. Check out our range of carved fetish animals for protection, they make a super and unusual present and come in their own leather pouch. Our Hebe sales team will be delighted to help you select a special gift, please 'phone or email for any advice or further information - we look forward to speaking to you soon.

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