Start with the room, not the motif. A tea drinker needs a gaiwan or a travel set. A host needs plates or a ginger jar. Someone who already has enough vessels may want a ceramic charm — a small kiln on the wrist.
Then check packed size. Shipping is charged per order, but a tall vase still needs a taller carton. Zodiac pairings solve this: one bracelet, one tea set, one story.
If the recipient is new to Chinese porcelain, choose blue-and-white or celadon. Both photograph well, pack well, and do not require a lecture.