Wonderful Memories
“What do I do with mementos from the wonderful woman who raised me?” That question brought back much emotion from the time when I also lost my mother. Joni, a great friend of mine mentioned jewelry as a part of her mother’s past. Most of it was not of a style Joni would choose to wear. We got together and sorted through many pieces, reminiscing with stories about our mothers’ travels and where Joni’s mom had purchased some of her treasures. Ideas for new pieces, built from a mother’s past, emerged and the wearable results can be seen below. This is the second time I have had the privilege of making a new necklace from vintage treasures and I would welcome the opportunity again.
We composed the piece above from 2 different necklaces made entirely of pearl-like beads; updating it by multiplying the strands and adding chain.
When visiting Colorado, Joni’s mom had lapis earrings custom set in a gold bezel with diamonds. Since Joni does not have pierced ears, I was able to mount them on her mother’s vintage rhinestone necklace and bracelet set that was popular in the 50’s.
This sapphire pendant was very pretty but needed a chain so I hung it from sterling silver with tiny jade beads of the same blue as the sapphire.
I loved doing this and would welcome this type of work again.
Deb Roberts Jewelry 