Repurposing old jewelry is not just a trend; it's a meaningful way to breathe new life into cherished pieces that may have lost their shine or relevance. Whether you have a broken necklace, a lone earring, or a vintage brooch collecting dust, repurposing them into new jewelry can be a rewarding and creative process. Here's a guide on how to transform your old jewelry into stunning, modern pieces that you’ll be proud to wear. 1. Assess Your Jewelry Collection The first step in re purposing old jewelry is to assess what you have. Lay out all the pieces you’re considering and categorize them by type (necklaces, earrings, rings, etc.). Consider the following: Sentimental Value: Some pieces may hold sentimental value. Decide if you want to retain the original form or re purpose it in a way that still honors the memory. Condition: Check for any damage, tarnishing, or wear. Some pieces may need a professional cleaning or minor repairs before they can be repurposed. Materials: Identify the materials in your jewelry—gold, silver, gemstones, pearls, etc. This will help you decide how to best re purpose each item. 2. Get Inspired Once you have an idea of what you’re working with, start looking for inspiration. Pinterest, Instagram, and jewelry blogs are great places to find ideas. Here are a few ways you can re purpose old jewelry: Convert a necklace into a bracelet: Shorten a necklace to make a trendy bracelet or anklet. Add charms or beads from other pieces to create a unique design. Turn a brooch into a pendant: A vintage brooch can be transformed into a stunning pendant by attaching it to a chain or ribbon. Earrings into rings: A single earring can be turned into a statement ring by attaching it to a ring base. Gemstones and beads: Harvest gemstones or beads from multiple pieces to create a brand-new necklace or bracelet. A gorgeous trend right now is taking all your small diamonds and/or gemstones and flush set them into a wider ring or bracelet or setting them into a disc pendant. The placement is from densely packed at an edge to lightly packed as they get further away (photos are compliments of the American Gem Society). Sometimes the depth of the gem will determine if it can be used because you wouldn’t want the pointy gem bottom to poke your skin. 3. Plan Your Design Before your jewelry is disassembled, sketch out your design ideas or have us do it for you. This doesn’t have to be a professional drawing—a simple sketch will do. Consider the following: Symmetry and Balance: Ensure your new piece is well-balanced and symmetrical (unless you’re going for an asymmetrical design). Color Scheme: Plan the colors carefully to ensure they complement each other. Functionality: Make sure the new piece will be comfortable to wear and durable. 4. Redesign Process We will first inventory everything you leave with us. Next step is to remove the appropriate gems and remove any portion of the piece that will not be a part of the finished product. Then the goldsmith will work their magic and fulfill your wishes according to the design plan. 5. Add Personal Touches One of the joys of re purposing jewelry is that you can add personal touches that make the piece truly unique. Consider engraving a special date or initials, or incorporating a new element like a charm that represents something meaningful to you. 6. Care for Your New Jewelry Once your new jewelry is complete, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure it lasts for years to come. Store your pieces individually to avoid damage. Have them professionally cleaned and checked regularly. Avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals. Conclusion Re purposing old jewelry is a great way to create personalized, meaningful pieces that tell a story. While your restyling possibilities are endless, you are breathing new life into old treasures and can create jewelry that is both stylish and sentimental. Come in and visit with one of our designers to create something newly memorable. Sources Jewelers of America. "How to Re purpose Jewelry into New Designs." Accessed August 2024. The Spruce Crafts. "DIY Jewelry Projects for Repurposing Old Pieces." Accessed August 2024. Gem Society. "Repurposing Jewelry: How to Turn Old Pieces into New Treasures." Accessed August 2024.

The month of August brings with it the bright green glow of peridot, the official birthstone for those born in this summer month. Known for its distinctive green hue, peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color, although the intensity and tint of the green depend on the amount of iron contained in the crystal structure. This captivating gemstone has a rich history, fascinating geology, and an abundance of symbolic meanings that make it a cherished stone for many. A Brief History of Peridot Peridot has been adored for thousands of years, with its use dating back to ancient Egypt around 1500 BC. It was known as the “gem of the sun” and was believed to protect against nightmares and bring the wearer confidence, health, and positive energy. The ancient Egyptians sourced their peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. This island remained a significant source of peridot until the early 20th century. During the Middle Ages, peridot was highly valued by European royals and clergy and was often used to decorate church altars and clerical robes. The stone's popularity continued through the Victorian era, where it was frequently used in jewelry. The Science Behind Peridot Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate mineral rich in magnesium and iron. It forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. This geological process means that peridot is often found in areas with significant volcanic history, such as Hawaii, Arizona, and parts of China and Myanmar. The gem’s signature green color is due to the presence of iron within its structure, and it ranges from a yellowish-green to a more intense olive or brownish-green. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot's color is innate, not caused by impurities, which means it doesn't change color under different lighting conditions. Unique Inclusions: The Lily Pad One of the most fascinating aspects of peridot is its unique inclusions, commonly referred to as "lily pad inclusions." These inclusions are typically small, circular shapes resembling lily pads floating on water, and they are caused by minute cracks, or other minerals, such as chromite, within the gemstone. While some might view inclusions as imperfections, lily pad inclusions add character to the peridot and can enhance its allure by adding depth and a unique texture to the gem. These inclusions are often considered identifying marks that authenticate natural peridot stones. (See photo below) Symbolism and Meaning The vibrant green of peridot symbolizes growth, renewal, and new beginnings, making it a fitting stone for August, a month associated with the harvest. It is also associated with the sun, and is thought to drive away the darkness and bring warmth and light. In terms of emotional healing, peridot is said to promote abundance, prosperity, and happiness. It’s believed to alleviate jealousy, resentment, and stress, replacing negative energies with positivity and clarity. Caring for Peridot Jewelry Peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, is softer than many other gemstones, so it requires careful handling. To keep peridot jewelry looking its best, clean it gently with mild soap and warm water, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. It’s best to store peridot pieces separately from other harder gemstones to prevent scratching. Where to Find Peridot Today, major sources of peridot include the United States, particularly Arizona, China, Myanmar, and Pakistan. The Peridot Mesa in Arizona's San Carlos Reservation is one of the most prolific sources of gem-quality peridot in the world. The finest peridot stones often come from Pakistan’s mountainous Kashmir region, where exciting, large crystals are found. Peridot is not just a beautiful gemstone but a symbol of warmth, peace, and growth. Whether set in jewelry or admired for its natural beauty, this August birthstone continues to captivate and inspire those who encounter it. Come see our selection of peridot jewelry or customize something unique from one of our loose gemstones. Resources Gemological Institute of America (GIA): https://www.gia.edu/peridot Offers a detailed overview of peridot’s properties, origins, and value American Gem Society (AGS): https://www.americangemsociety.org/page/peridot Provides insights into the history and symbolism of peridot

Precious metals like sterling silver, gold, and platinum are cherished for their beauty, durability, and value. However, exposure to various chemicals can significantly impact their appearance and longevity. Understanding these effects is crucial for both jewelers and wearers to maintain the integrity and shine of their jewelry. Sterling Silver Sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), is particularly susceptible to chemical reactions. The most common issue with sterling silver is tarnishing, a process where the metal surface darkens due to exposure to sulfur-containing compounds in the air. Everyday substances such as perfumes, lotions, and even sweat can accelerate tarnishing. Chlorine, found in swimming pools and household cleaners, is especially harmful to sterling silver. It can cause the metal to corrode and weaken, leading to discoloration and potential structural damage. Similarly, acidic foods (like citrus fruits) and certain cleaning agents can cause pitting and surface damage to sterling silver jewelry. Gold Gold is prized for its resistance to tarnish and corrosion, but it's not entirely immune to chemical effects. Pure gold (24 karat) is relatively inert and doesn’t react easily with most chemicals. However, gold jewelry is often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and durability, and these alloys can react with certain chemicals. For example, chlorine can weaken gold jewelry by attacking the alloyed metals, causing the piece to become brittle and prone to breaking. Similarly, harsh cleaning agents, such as those containing ammonia, can dull the surface of gold jewelry and strip away protective coatings. Gold’s softness also makes it susceptible to scratching when exposed to abrasive chemicals. It's essential to avoid contact with household cleaners, cosmetics, and chemicals like bleach to maintain the metal's luster and structural integrity. Platinum Platinum is highly resistant to tarnish and corrosion, making it an ideal metal for fine jewelry. Its dense, durable nature means it doesn't easily react with most chemicals. However, platinum is not completely impervious to damage. Chlorine, in particular, can affect platinum, albeit less severely than sterling silver or gold. Repeated exposure to chlorine can cause platinum to develop a dull appearance over time. Additionally, while platinum is more scratch-resistant than gold, abrasive chemicals can still cause minor surface scratches and dullness. To maintain platinum's brilliance, it's best to avoid contact with harsh chemicals and to clean it using gentle, non-abrasive methods. Using a mild soap solution and a soft brush can effectively clean platinum jewelry without causing damage. Conclusion While sterling silver, gold, and platinum are all durable and beautiful metals, their longevity and appearance can be compromised by exposure to certain chemicals. Understanding how these metals react to everyday substances and taking preventive measures can help keep jewelry looking its best. Avoiding chlorine, harsh cleaning agents, and other corrosive substances is key to preserving the integrity and shine of precious metal jewelry. References 1. American Gem Society. (n.d.). Care & Cleaning Tips. Retrieved from American Gem Society. 2. GIA. (n.d.). Jewelry Care and Cleaning Tips. Retrieved from GIA. 3. Jewelers of America. (n.d.). Jewelry Care & Cleaning Guidelines. Retrieved from Jewelers of America.

Jewelry design is an intricate art form that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and an understanding of aesthetic principles. Whether designing a simple pendant or an elaborate tiara, these seven principles guide designers in creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also balanced and cohesive. Let's explore the essential principles of jewelry design: balance, proportion, contrast, unity, harmony, movement, and emphasis. 1. Balance Balance refers to the distribution of visual weight within a jewelry piece. This can be achieved through symmetry or asymmetry. Symmetrical balance involves arranging elements evenly on either side of a central point, creating a sense of stability and formality. Asymmetrical balance, on the other hand, uses different elements to create a dynamic yet balanced look. For instance, a necklace might have a large central pendant balanced by smaller, evenly spaced beads. 2. Proportion Proportion deals with the relationship between the sizes of different components within a piece of jewelry. Proper proportion ensures that no part of the design overwhelms the other. For example, in a ring, the size of the gemstone should be proportionate to the width of the band. Proportion helps in creating pieces that are aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to wear. 3. Contrast Contrast in jewelry design involves using differences in color, texture, or shape to create visual interest. This principle can make a piece stand out and draw attention to specific elements. For example, pairing a smooth, polished metal with rough, uncut diamonds creates a striking contrast. Using contrasting colors, such as gold with black onyx, can also enhance the visual appeal of a piece. 4. Unity Unity is the sense of oneness or cohesion in a design. All elements of the jewelry piece should work together to create a unified look. This can be achieved through consistent use of materials, colors, and shapes. For instance, a bracelet featuring a repeating pattern of gemstones creates a unified and cohesive design. 5. Harmony Harmony refers to the pleasing combination of elements to create a balanced and complete whole. It involves blending different components so they complement each other. A harmonious piece of jewelry might use a color palette where all shades are related or a combination of shapes that fit well together. Harmony ensures that while the piece may have variety, it is still perceived as a single, cohesive item. 6. Movement Movement in jewelry design refers to the flow or direction within the piece, guiding the viewer’s eye through the design. This can be achieved through the arrangement of lines, shapes, and colors that lead the eye from one element to another. For example, a cascading necklace that draws the eye downward creates a sense of movement and flow or articulating earrings that move with you. 7. Emphasis Emphasis is about creating a focal point in the design that draws attention. This can be achieved by using a large or brightly colored gemstone, a unique shape, or an intricate design detail. Emphasis ensures that the viewer's eye is immediately drawn to the most important part of the jewelry piece, giving it a clear point of interest. Understanding and applying these seven principles—balance, proportion, contrast, unity, harmony, movement, and emphasis—are crucial for any jewelry designer. These principles not only guide the creative process but also ensure that the final piece is aesthetically pleasing, wearable, and harmonious. By mastering these principles, our in-house designers can craft jewelry that not only captivates but also resonates with those who wear it. References 1. Graver, J. (2008). Basic Jewelry Design: Principles and Elements. Retrieved from Ganoksin. 2. McGrath, M. (2014). Jewelry Design Handbook. Retrieved from McGrath Jewelry. 3. Linsell, T. (2013). The Art of Jewelry Design: Principles and Practices. Retrieved from Interweave.

Creating a wish list serves as a powerful tool to transform your dreams into reality. First and foremost, a wish list provides a record of pieces you have selected that reflect your personal style, your sentiments, and your aspirations. For some self-purchasers, a wish list is for you, while for others the wish list will help their loved ones select just the right item for you. A store wish list serves as a tool for planning and budgeting. By articulating your preferences and tastes, customers provide invaluable insight to both themselves and their loved ones, simplifying the process of selecting the perfect piece. By identifying your desired items and their prices, you can set realistic goals and consider responsible financing options. A wish list also gives buyers options that fit their budget at the time. Often, loved ones come in not sure of what to buy you. If a wish list was available to them, it would be considered a win-win. The buyer is able to choose something off the wish list based on your mutual taste and within their budget and you receive something you have always wanted. Wish lists promote communication between you and your jeweler at Olufson Designs. Our staff can offer guidance and recommendations to help you select or create jewelry items that reflect your interests and style. In turn, these collaborations will build long-term relationships built on mutual understanding and trust. Additionally, a jewelry store wish list keeps relationship tensions down. When you receive a gift you love, you wear it and show it off. Our experience at Olufson Designs is that many of the unwanted gifts don’t get exchanged but end up forever stored in a jewelry box. Your wish list gives the purchaser the ability to be successful. Your wish list is a living document, changing and evolving over time as your interests and desires do. You can visit your list any time, cultivating your personal treasure trove of dreams, and offering more options for self-purchasers and for those who might like to purchase you something. Come see us today and let’s talk about making your dreams into reality.

I recently had a situation that moved me to the core. Sometimes we have strong connections with our customers and this was one of them. The couple had been in multiple times over the last few months. Then the wife passed away suddenly. She had been battling cancer, unbeknownst to me. It was a shock and a reminder that it’s not always rainbows and sunshine in the jewelry business. In our careers in jewelry we follow families and their heirlooms through the whole circle of life-from birth to first communion, to birthdays and graduations, to engagements and marriage, through divorces, and eventually to death. These heirlooms hold the stories of generations. It sometimes gets lost in the day-to-day operations in the store, but stories like these help bring us back to what is most important. It’s the connections we make with the ones we love and those who have touched our hearts along the way. When it comes time to pass jewelry to loved ones, we can offer some advice that comes with years of collective experience. Take your jewelry to someone you trust to have it cleaned and inspected. If you have someone in mind that you would like to pass it to, have necessary repairs done so it is ready to be enjoyed by the new owner. Repairs now will save your heirs unexpected costs later. Write down any family history surrounding the jewelry-why it was purchased, who the original owner was, and what the gems are, if known. Collect any original sales receipts or previous documentation you may have for each piece. If no current documentation exists, consider having your jewelry appraised. There are many types of appraisals but no matter what type or how old, the appraisal will still give some indication of value and identification. Keep this paperwork with each piece so someday when the jewelry is passed down, your heirs will know which pieces have importance. They will understand if it is sentimental, monetary, or both. It may not always be necessary to have appraisals done, especially if you don’t plan on insuring your jewelry, or if the value of the item doesn’t warrant the cost of an appraisal. You can inventory everything yourself. Make lists and take photographs (with something to show scale such as a ruler or coin) and write down any family history for the pieces. Gather all of these things and keep in a safe place. Consider gifting jewelry to the next generation before you pass. This can give you the opportunity to see them enjoying the piece. It also gives them the opportunity to ask you questions they might have. We see so many children and grandchildren that inherit jewelry. They often express that they wish they had the opportunity to ask questions about the history. It is no longer possible once their loved one is gone. Another consideration: Jewelry that is broken or beyond repair can be traded toward repairs or appraisal paperwork for pieces that will be passed down. This can help the next generation in two ways. The first is mitigating the cost associated with care and maintenance and the second is having already completed some of the sorting and decision-making that otherwise is left for the next generation. Olufson Designs is ready to help you plan for your valuables’ care and future. The costs associated with estate consultation and sorting are $50-$150/hr. and appraisal fees are $150/hr.

Valentine's Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, is a day dedicated to expressing affection and love. While it is widely recognized as a day for exchanging cards, flowers, and chocolates, the history of Valentine's Day is shrouded in mystery and spans centuries. The origins of Valentine's Day can be traced back to ancient Rome, where mid-February was traditionally a time to celebrate fertility and the coming of spring. One popular legend suggests that the day is named after St. Valentine, a Christian martyr who lived during the Roman Empire. The exact identity of St. Valentine is disputed, with multiple martyrs bearing the name, but the most common tale associates him with the clandestine marriages of soldiers, which were prohibited by the Roman emperor. As the legend goes, St. Valentine defied the emperor's decree and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. Eventually, he was caught, imprisoned, and sentenced to death. Before his execution, it is said that St. Valentine sent a note to the jailer's daughter, whom he had befriended during his confinement, signing it "from your Valentine." This phrase is believed to be the precursor to the modern-day expression of affection found in Valentine's Day cards. The celebration of love on February 14th gained popularity in the Middle Ages when the concept of courtly love flourished. By the 18th century, exchanging handmade cards and tokens of affection became a common tradition in England. The Industrial Revolution further popularized the practice, as mass-produced cards became accessible to a broader audience. In the United States, Esther A. Howland is often credited with commercializing Valentine's Day cards in the mid-19th century. Today, Valentine's Day has evolved into a global celebration of love, encompassing not only romantic relationships but also friendships and familial bonds. Whether it's through handwritten notes, thoughtful gifts, or acts of kindness, Valentine's Day remains a special occasion dedicated to expressing love and appreciation for the meaningful connections in our lives. As we continue to celebrate this timeless tradition, the history of Valentine's Day reminds us of the enduring power of love across cultures and centuries.

Weddings are the best day of a couple’s life and the beginning of life together. They can also be a very daunting thing to plan with the combination of choosing your vendors, making a seating arrangement and getting your outfit ready for the big day. Wedding fashion goes beyond a dress or tuxedo, too. According to most sources online, a wedding gown (if purchased traditionally through a boutique) is supposed to be purchased anywhere between nine and fifteen months before the day of a wedding. But when should you buy your jewelry? Well, once you have your base chosen (dress, suit, etc.), then jewelry can come into the mix. It’s easier to accessorize an article of clothing than to build around a certain accessory. Certain necklines and hairstyles complement certain jewelry styles better but arbitrary fashion “rules'' shouldn't dictate the choices you make for your wedding as long as you’re happy with your choices. If you’re buying something off the floor with zero alterations, you have more time to start choosing but should have an idea of what style you’re looking for. Pinterest, Instagram and other websites of the like are a great way to find ideas and inspiration for your wedding jewelry. While not every piece is available in store, special orders can take as little as a few days to arrive. For quick special orders or buying things off the floor, three months pre-wedding is the ideal amount of time. Alterations can be done to those pieces within this time frame (if needed) and buying earlier will alleviate the stress of finding the right jewelry under a strict time constraint. If you’re looking for something particular or want a completely one-of-a-kind piece for your wedding, custom design is always an option that can be explored. Matching sets to channel Elizabeth Taylor levels of glamor or even pieces that coordinate can be custom designed, ordered or purchased right out of the case. It all depends on what you want and any budget that was set in the early planning stages. For custom wedding jewelry, this should be planned around six months out from the wedding day. This will allow time to design, source gemstones, fabricate and alter (if needed). Engagement rings kick off the excitement but a wedding band seals the deal. Whether you want a completely custom ring made exactly to your specifications or just a plain band, there’s still time constraints with this. Anywhere between a few days to a few months is what it takes to make a wedding band. Research in your free time and a consultation at a jewelry store can help find exactly what you’re looking for. A plain band is often more complicated than expected. Material, width, fit (comfort, standard, etc.), profile and finish are all factors that go into choosing a simple band. Companies like Lashbrook Designs and Toby Pomeroy are great options to have something simple, but uniquely tailored to your style. Lashbrook Designs offers many alternative material options to fit into any budget or just to fit the wearer’s lifestyle, which are often the biggest determining factors when purchasing a band. Other bands may need to be customized in order to fit against a specific shape or style of engagement ring, especially if the engagement ring was custom made. These special orders can take a week or a few months, depending on the vendor and style. Start planning to order your wedding band at least four to six months before your wedding (this can be done at the same time as orders for other wedding jewelry). Aside from any fabrication timelines, this will also allow wiggle room for last minute sizings and getting used to the fit/feel of wearing your ring. Wedding band options may seem infinite and complicated but are easily tailored to the preferences and lifestyle of the wearer. Aside from purchasing any new jewelry for your wedding, there’s also the maintenance beforehand. A few weeks before, plan to stop in for a free inspection. We will assess the ring for any possible repairs that are needed or simple services like polishing and/or rhodium plating. A few days before the big day, drop off your rings and any other jewelry you may be wearing for a deep cleaning so they’re sparkling during the ceremony and any other festivities leading up to it. As for soldering your wedding set, this can be done before or after the ceremony. If both rings were purchased through us, this is a complimentary service that can be done within a few hours or by the next day. Just call ahead and we’ll make the arrangements to have it done as soon as possible. Weddings shouldn’t be stressful. Countless websites help couples and their families find resources and advice for planning their perfect wedding, but jewelry seems to be forgotten in the flow of everything. That’s why we’re here to help alleviate any stress and make the process of finding your wedding jewelry as easy as possible. Ready to start looking for your perfect wedding accessories? Book an appointment or stop in during our open hours to meet with a sales associate about curating your wedding look. We are open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and are always happy to help create or find the jewelry of your dreams.

What is one way to score a great gift? Make them feel extra special! This idea has no expiration date and is good for any occasion. Anniversary? Absolutely. In the dog house? Yes, beyond a doubt. 2023 holiday gift? Let us help you score big! In this blog article I interviewed six customers asking them how jewelry makes them feel. One interview was even with a male self-purchaser. Our customer Laurie defined jewelry as “the ultimate luxury and serves as a personal expression of love and esteem.” Read below for a collective synopsis to each question. Q: How does it feel when you receive jewelry? Does it feel different when it’s for a special occasion like an anniversary? Why do you think? A: Laurie remembers being speechless at the gesture (of receiving jewelry as a gift) and that special occasion gifts really mark a time in the history of the relationship that you can look back upon your entire life. Joy recalls one year how she received a bracelet because she had been struggling. “When I wear it, I am reminded of the thoughtfulness behind the gift, not the struggles.” She appreciates the surprise and if there is a story to tell that goes with the gift. Jan feels like she is wearing “wearable art where its beauty and sparkle brings joy.” Q: Have you purchased a significant piece for yourself? If so, what was the occasion? How did this purchase make you feel? A: Paul says he enjoys giving himself the latitude in retirement to buy himself nicer things. He likes receiving unsolicited comments from his friends. Wendy views jewelry mainly as an art form. For her, the item needs to be unique or exhibit a special technique in its creation. Collectively, buying for oneself isn’t as special as when someone buys it for you, unless the story behind it is extra special. Q: When you wear a special piece, does putting it on reignite the feeling you had upon receiving it? A: Collectively, the opportunity to reminisce about the story behind receiving the gift is significant. Laura says, “Each piece takes me back to a specific place and time in our relationship and reliving those moments brings me great joy and happiness. Receiving jewelry on a special occasion marks the day in a way that few other gifts can.” Paul says, “It does reignite. It makes me feel special by knowing I had a hand in the custom design process.” In conclusion, you can’t go wrong with a jewelry gift. It makes the recipient often speechless, especially if a story can be attached to the gift. The majority of those interviewed felt that people noticing their purchase/gift and commenting on it really fulfills them. Knowing this also gives them the opportunity to return the favor and comment when a friend receives something special. The ability to have one of their friends feel extra special also brings joy to the one commenting. Give your loved one the feeling of luxury by purchasing a thoughtful gift this holiday season from Olufson Designs.