Have you ever wondered what makes a piece of jewelry a family heirloom? Is it their stones, price, history, or is it a combination of all three?
Heirloom jewelry is more than gorgeous necklaces, bracelets, and rings. It’s generational jewelry that has moved from one family member to the next, holding sentiment and value. Do you want to know more about the heirloom jewelry sitting in your jewelry box? If so, this article will help you decipher between traditional and heirloom jewelry, its value, and your options.
Is all Jewelry Heirloom Jewelry?
An expensive necklace doesn’t mean you’re wearing heirloom jewelry. Yes, heirloom jewelry holds immense monetary value, but not because of how much was initially paid for it.
What classifies most jewelry as an heirloom is the jewels and metals of the piece. Precious stones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds make items like necklaces, rings, and bracelets heirlooms and increase the value of the heirloom throughout time.
The design of the jewelry piece also plays a vital part in categorizing it as in heirloom. Since heirloom jewelry is passed from one generation to the next, it will hold designs used when made. These unique designs will help set apart an heirloom ring crafted in the 1900s from one created in 2022.
The heirloom jewelry is nothing like having that loved one with you. Still, it reminds the one it’s given to of sweet memories and family members long gone. So, not only is heirloom jewelry a connection to the past, but it’s a builder of relationships in the present.
Often heirloom jewelry is used for special occasions like births, engagements, weddings, or coming of age. For example, presenting a loved one with an heirloom engagement ring adds another person to the story and keeps the memories alive.
Want to Repurpose Your Heirloom Jewelry?
Do you have a piece of heirloom jewelry that you want to keep in your family but isn’t your style? Don’t worry; there’s no need to run to an appraiser and sell your jewelry. There are actually many options when it comes to repurposing your heirloom jewelry.
Engagement and wedding rings can be redesigned and upgraded. Long necklaces don’t have to remain as they are but can become multiple rings, allowing more than one person to be gifted with an heirloom. You don’t have to trade style for your family’s traditions and memories; repurposing gives you the freedom to turn your old jewelry into something new.
Heirloom jewelry isn’t all about precious stones, price, and design. It’s a lifestyle; a transfer of love and memories from one generation to the next. Remember this article and what it taught you about the actual value of heirloom jewelry if you find yourself in possession of heirloom jewelry or know someone who does.
Whether you decide to wear it or keep it close in a special place you’ll want to make sure you have the right protection for your treasured heirloom pieces. BriteCo combines the lowest prices with the best coverage for your heirloom pieces and other fine jewelry items like engagement rings and diamond earrings. Get covered today with a FREE jewelry insurance quote.
