How to Wear Heirloom Jewelry
With family heirloom jewelry comes a priceless sentimental value that most other types of jewelry cannot match. But how do you turn that treasured piece into something that feels fresh, modern, and—most importantly—like you?
From dad’s watch to grandma’s old pearls and various gemstones, here’s how to wear heirloom jewelry.
Mix and Match
One of the quickest and easiest ways to put a modern spin on heirloom jewels is to mix and match different pieces. Play around with different styles. Pair the old with the new. Basically, get as creative as you like. Your ultimate goal is to create a look that feels fresh and like you.
Re-Design Grandma’s Pearl Necklace
As lovely (and safe) as it is to keep grandma’s pearls hidden away in your jewelry box, you’re missing out on wearing something truly special. You may think grandma’s old pearl necklace looks a bit old-fashioned and not really to your taste, but with a little creativity, you can put a modern twist on the old family treasure.
For a simple, more contemporary look, take a few pearls off the strand and wear it as a lariat necklace. With the help of a professional jeweler, you could incorporate those leftover pearls into a new design. For instance, a pearl ring or pearl earrings.
Wear Dad’s Watch as a Bracelet
A men’s watch can look extremely chic. Even if dad’s watch doesn’t work anymore, you can still wear it as a bracelet. Pair it with your favorite work dress or a button-down shirt with rolled-up sleeves for a stylish, statement look.
If you don’t wear your dad’s watch because it feels too big, consider getting it resized. You’ll have to go to a professional jeweler for this, but it should be possible. This is a great solution for minimalists who prefer something sleek and simple instead of big and bold.
Create a One-of-a-Kind Ring
If you’ve got lonely gemstones or diamonds lying around in your jewelry box, it’s time to start making use of them. Have your favorite incorporated into a contemporary design. It could be a ring, necklace, or any kind of jewelry.
Get inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest—and find a design you will fall in love with, whether that be an Edwardian ring or something more art deco.
Shop Heirloom Jewelry 2023
Don’t own any heirloom jewelry? Don’t worry. Here are some beautiful vintage pieces to add to your collection—with a modern twist, of course.
Tiffany & Co.
Freshwater Pearl Ball Necklace
Elegant yet edgy, this stunning necklace features a luxe mix of lustrous pearls and sterling silver.
Rolex
Sea-Dweller Watch
This chunky, heavy-duty watch in Oystersteel features a black ceramic Cerachrom bezel insert and an Oyster bracelet.
Harry Winston
Central Park Mosaic Ring
A colorful medley of sapphires, emeralds, aquamarines, and diamonds, the Central Park Mosaic Ring perfectly reflects the lush beauty of New York’s backyard.
About The Author
Debbie Azar is the Co-Founder and President of Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, and a distinguished leader in the global diamond and jewelry industry. As an executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries, her entrepreneurial skills and vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide, establishing 13 leading-edge gemological facilities on four continents. She currently serves on the boards of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Responsible Jewellery Council, and Jewelers for Children, and is a member of the 24 Karat Club of New York. She has been featured in Forbes, Daily Mail, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Bloomberg Businessweek, Fox Business, Fox5, CBS2, BOLDTV, Varney&Co, The Street, and NASDAQ, among others.
