Some Thoughts On Repurposed Vintage Jewelry

By Jocelyn Davidson


With the current trend of recycling, reusing and refurbishing, it is no wonder that people are going through their jewelry boxes and drawers and taking out old pieces, broken items and ones that no longer fit. Many individuals also have heirlooms they do not wear because of their old fashioned style. Repurposed vintage jewelry is becoming part of many a collection and often brings together the best of the past and the present.

Many people have inherited pieces from elderly relatives that they do not wear. These pieces often have sentimental value. It is wonderful if they can be given new life and worn once again as a constant reminder of the person who first wore them. Diamonds, pearls and old gold are all great elements to use in modern designs. These new creations often preserve the past but combine the elements in innovative ways to make them fit the style of the current wearer.

Old broaches often make interesting cocktail rings. Chandelier earrings and bracelets can be made from old diamonds. A long pearl earring may be used to create a set of earrings and pearls. Earrings without partners are effectively used on bracelets and necklaces. Broken pieces of various items are combined to produce one new item.

Heirloom pieces may be very valuable. They should be inspected and appraised before making any decisions about what to do with them. Some items may lose their value if they are broken apart. Other elements may contain certain markings or tags identifying them as part of a specific line. In this case, they are better left unused.

Some pieces are just too valuable to break up as this will affect their value. There are pieces are even more valuable broken than a new piece created out of the broken elements. Others may have elements such as a clasp with an embossed name on it. This should not be used out of respect for the original line and can cause confusion.

The customer may have a very good idea of what is desired when it comes to design. If the design has not already been chosen, one can be recommended. The jeweler and customer may even use a ready made sketch and modify it or create a new one from scratch. This is easier if a good rapport is established.

Choosing a reputable jeweler for the task of repurposing will help to ensure that all the elements are used in the best possible way. A shoddy piece of contemporary jewelry will not do justice to the vintage elements used to make it. In this case, it may be better to leave this original alone.

It is very important to know what you have before you decide to simply go ahead and break apart old pieces. There will be no reason for regret if the refurbishing is done correctly. In fact, when these items are used as the raw material of a new creation, they bring together the best of the past and present to create very special items that are worn stylishly with pride and bring back precious memories too.




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