Don’t like your jewelry? Repurpose it!

Do you have an old ring that…well, looks old? An heirloom pendant that’s just not your style? A mismatched earring? Instead of leaving it in the back of a drawer, create something new and exciting that you can’t wait to show off—redesign it, also known as “repurposing.” You can turn a ring into a pendant, a necklace into a ring, earrings into a bracelet, and any other combination. The only limits are your imagination, budget, and a creative jeweler/designer.

Some reasons to repurpose your jewelry

• Keep your sentimental jewels close: A delicate diamond in Mom’s or Grandma’s wedding band may not suit your style. This is a chance to keep the memories associated with a stone while creating a piece you’ll enjoy wearing.
• Own a truly custom piece: Lots of people may have a diamond solitaire—but only you will have jewelry that’s designed to your specifications.
• Be kind to the environment: You’ll be recycling unwanted jewelry into a beautiful piece that you’ll love.
• Get something you really want: Maybe it’s an old engagement ring/wedding band from a previous relationship; using the diamond(s) from unwanted rings can put a happier spin on the gemstone.

How to start the process

• Ask for recommendations from friends and professionals. A happy client is the best advertisement. Not all jewelers have a sense of design (many do!).
• Do your homework: The Jewelers of America, a trade organization, recommends looking for examples of what you might like. They can help the designer see what you’re looking for.
• Set up an appointment—bring all of the stones/pieces of jewelry that you’re considering.
• Have a budget in mind: That’ll also give the designer some parameters of what they can do in terms of repurposing.
• While you won’t need to pay for a new diamond, new materials, additional stones, and craftsmanship can add up.
• A jeweler will examine the stones you have to make sure they’re in good shape and can be reset. Plus, remember, it’s not only the stones that can be used…fittings can also be incorporated into the new piece.
• The designer will create a couple of sketches, either on the spot, or will send them to you after the meeting. You’ll also get a quote.
• You’ll probably need to leave a deposit. The piece can take several weeks to a month.
• When you get the finished piece, examine it carefully to make sure the stones and clasp are secure. And get ready for the compliments you’re going to receive on your new statement piece!

As with any piece of jewelry, be sure to get an updated appraisal—for the new ring/necklace and for all of your remaining pieces. Call me at 617-304-0174 or by email at aimee@ambappraisal.com. I’ll be happy to help you out.

Make sure you love your jewelry and wear your shiny baubles whenever you can—and if you don’t like what you have, zhuzh it up and get a piece that makes you sparkle as much as your gemstones.

Brilliantly yours, Aimee