Shop Offers Gifts for Mom That Last Forever

Just because my daughter is such a wonderful mother, I like to shower her with gifts on Mother’s Day--gifts that will last forever and continue to convey my message.

Perfume is nice, but it won’t be on her dresser when I’m long gone, as a stunning perfume bottle would.

Specialty stores all over Los Angeles carry a good selection of these, but Athena International, manufacturer and importer, wholesales to those stores and, for a brief period this month, will sell to the public at well below its wholesale prices.

Bottles that cost $40 elsewhere are tagged at $10, and some are even as low as $5.

Jewelry can last forever and become heirlooms. Pearl and gold-filled necklaces that retail for $25 to $75 will go quickly at $10 to $30.

Austrian crystal earrings are offered at $5 to $9; many jewelry counters in town are selling them for $12.50 to $45.

This is also a source for the popular crystal bracelets that are priced from $12 to $60 on the retail market but sell here for $4 to $15.

A selection of 14K gold bracelets and necklaces are at least 75% below retail.

There are even a few gift ideas for dads and grads, such as crystal paperweights for $5 to $25 that sell elsewhere for $20 to $250.

Owner Barbara Levin picked up some treasures on a recent trip to Morocco and Portugal, and offers them at discounted prices.

On May 24, the doors close to the public, not to reopen until the pre-holiday season.

Athena International, 1840 W. 220th St., Suite 330, Torrance. (800) 228-1307. Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Mother’s Day, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Major credit cards.

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Weekend Super Sale: Fragrances at sizable discounts can always be found at Perfumes West for Less, and this weekend there are some specials on longtime favorites. Shalimar spray, which sells at many perfume counters for $55, is $39.95, as is Halston, which usually retails for $50.

If you’re having trouble finding Mom’s favorite, chances are these folks have it. Or you can update Mom with Dolce & Gabanna or Alfred Sung at 30% off.

2099 Westwood Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 470-8556.