Giving new life to antique jewellery
Antique jewellery is more than an accessory; it’s a piece of history, that has been on an incredible journey. Obviously, times, tastes and fashions change, so some pieces may no longer suit. If you’ve inherited a piece of antique jewellery that you don’t wear, redesigning it offers a way to breathe new life into these treasures while respecting their original craftsmanship.
When I am approached to repurpose a piece of antique jewellery, I need to understand its heritage. I always examine the piece for unique design elements, such as intricate filigree, hand-cut gemstones, or era-specific motifs. Researching its origins and techniques ensures that any redesign complements rather than overwrites its character.
To give you an example, the ring you can see illustrating this blog is an Art Deco inspired ring designed & handmade by Heirlooms using a blue topaz from the clients existing ring & diamonds from a her 21st birthday ring.
It is so important to retain the integrity of the piece while updating it for modern use. For example, a Victorian brooch could be transformed into a pendant or a pair of earrings, preserving its detailed engraving. A high set ring which may contain several gemstones but is not practical to wear could be redesigned into another ring with a pair of earrings. The combinations are endless.
Sustainability is another key benefit of redesigning antique jewellery. By repurposing rather than buying new, you reduce waste and preserve the artisanal quality that mass production often lacks. I always say that antique jewellery is the ultimate in being environmentally aware!
The beautiful thing about redesigning antique jewellery is that you can be quite innovative in its design whilst preserving its history. You are, in fact, creating a timeless piece that resonates with today’s style and keeps the story alive for future generations. Most importantly, you are able to continue wearing stunning pieces of jewellery that need to be worn.
Originally published in the Purbeck Gazette on 20th January 2025.
