From red ribbons to yellow ribbons and all kinds of bracelets - don't get me started on how many bracelets I've seen - there is a huge assortment of jewelry available these days referred to as "cause jewelry." This means the jewelry is created and sold as a way to raise awareness and/or funds for a worth cause.

An inspiring jewelry company has actually come up with a way for customers to find all kind of "cause jewelry" at one web site called Generous Gems. Here are some of the details from this article, From AIDS to autism, there's something for every cause:

"There are some causes that people have never even heard of," said Mrs. Gillman. The company's product line includes pins, charms, pendants, rings, bracelets, and other items that speak for a host of concerns through color and symbol - usually the familiar ribbon loop. The line started with a pink piece for breast cancer awareness and has exploded to dozens of causes, many of them created in response to requests from customers, Mrs. Gillman said.

These aren't your paper ribbons or rubbery wristbands, either. The Ohio company and others are producing awareness jewelry in gold and silver, precious and semi-precious stones, and they donate a portion of proceeds to the cause or nonprofit organization the piece represents. "Prices range from $9.99 up to over $750 with gemstones," Mrs. Gillman said.