Imagine this: you’re out shopping one day and you see a gorgeous blue sapphire ring that you are craving to possess. But wait! You already have a blue sapphire ring at home that you never wear. It’s not your style, but you inherited it from your Aunt Gertrude and feel like you can’t get rid of it for sentimental reasons. What’s a girl (or guy) to do? Now, close your eyes and imagine that beautiful gem surrounded by precious metal in a setting that suits you perfectly. Do you feel a warm and fuzzy feeling inside that brings a big smile to your face? I thought so…
If you have a beautiful gem, don’t let it gather dust in a drawer or safe… repurpose it! There are so many reasons to do this, and the potential to save money is just the tip of the iceberg.
1. You get a piece of jewelry that is custom-crafted with you in mind. All of your jewelry-related fantasies will finally come true!
2. You get to actually like and WEAR the jewelry that was gifted to you (albeit in a different form.) This gives you the pleasure of remembering the special occasion the gem commemorates, or the person who loved you enough to pass their jewelry to you, each and every time you see your new creation.
3. You are recycling! If possible, I use the metal from the jewelry you are repurposing. If not, I use purified and recycled metal for all of my client’s projects. So, instead of buying something new, you make use of things that have already been through the production process.
4. Did I mention the part about saving money???
I’ve repurposed a lot of jewelry over the years, and I know a countless number of people who have kicked themselves for not doing it sooner. Typically, their hesitation stems from the following concerns, which I’ll also address below:
"I feel guilty about altering something that was gifted to me." Jewelry is meant to be worn, but everyone has their own style. Repurposing allows you to cherish your gift AND enjoy putting it on your body.
"I think the process will be incredibly expensive." Costs are directly correlated to the complexity of the project, its size/weight, and the materials you choose. A simple, sterling silver, prong-set gemstone pendant is much less expensive than a platinum, diamond encrusted tiara.
"I think the process will be incredibly time-consuming." The process can be as short as three weeks, or as long as you need to feel comfortable.
"I don’t know who to speak with about the process." (i.e., who to trust). I suggest checking out Yelp! or another review site. Does the designer have a Better Business Bureau seal of approval? How long have they been designing? Are they able to design in the style you are looking for? Most importantly, do you feel like they are listening to you and what you want? These are good questions to answer before you make your selection.
"I don’t think I deserve to have something made especially for me." I’m not a therapist, but I can speak from personal experience. Everyone deserves to feel special and people find meaning in both simple and complex expressions of art and emotion. If jewelry is your thing, don’t let the naysayers stop you from treating yourself!
Take action on your to-do list and celebrate your accomplishments with things that make you feel beautiful. It’s okay to be “selfish.” You are enjoying this life to the fullest, and make no apologies for it.
Still not sure? How about some before and after shots for inspiration...
If you are ready to get started,or need some more inspiration, contact me today to schedule your first complimentary design consultation. The holidays will be here before you know it, and now is the perfect time to start planning something special for yourself or someone you love.