Jewellery Remodelling – Giving Treasured Jewellery a Beautiful New Beginning

By Amanda | The Jewellery Appraiser | Reading, Berkshire

Have you ever opened your jewellery box and come across a ring, necklace or bracelet that you haven't worn for years, but simply can't bring yourself to part with?

Perhaps it belonged to your mum or grandmother, was given to you for a special occasion, or reminds you of someone incredibly dear. It might not be quite your style, perhaps it no longer fits, or maybe it's simply looking a little tired.

Whatever the reason, I believe that beautiful jewellery deserves to be worn, loved and enjoyed, rather than spending years tucked away in a drawer.

Jewellery remodelling is something I'm incredibly passionate about. There is something so special about taking a piece of jewellery that holds precious memories and transforming it into something beautiful that can be worn and treasured all over again.

And the loveliest part? Although the jewellery may look completely different, its sentimental meaning remains.

What Is Jewellery Remodelling?

Jewellery remodelling is the process of transforming existing jewellery into a new design, often using the original precious metals, diamonds or gemstones.

It might involve something relatively simple, such as resetting a diamond into a more modern mount, or something much more elaborate, like combining several inherited rings to create one completely bespoke piece.

Sometimes the original design can be adapted, whilst other commissions involve starting again and creating something entirely new.

Every piece is different, and that's what makes this part of my work so interesting.

I love sitting down with clients, hearing the stories behind their jewellery and exploring what we might be able to create together.

Quite often, people arrive at my studio with a little collection of jewellery and say, "I'm not really sure what can be done with any of this."

And that's absolutely fine! You don't need to arrive with a finished design in mind. That's where I can help.

What Can Be Done With Your Existing Jewellery?

You might be surprised by just how many possibilities there are.

1. Remodelling Inherited or Sentimental Rings

This is one of my favourite types of commissions.

Perhaps you've inherited your grandmother's engagement ring, but the setting is a little old-fashioned for your taste. Or maybe you have a ring that holds wonderful memories, but it's simply not something you would choose to wear today.

Depending on its construction and condition, we may be able to reuse the existing diamonds or gemstones in a completely new setting.

For example, an older diamond cluster ring could potentially become an elegant solitaire pendant, whilst gemstones from several rings could be incorporated into one beautiful new design.

I particularly love the idea of taking jewellery that has been passed down through generations and giving it a new chapter.

It's a lovely way of keeping those family connections alive.

2. Resetting Diamonds and Gemstones

Sometimes the gemstones are absolutely beautiful, but the setting just isn't quite right.

Perhaps the ring sits too high, catches on clothing, or simply no longer suits your style.

Resetting the stones can make an enormous difference.

We could consider a lower-profile setting, a different precious metal, a more contemporary design or something completely bespoke.

You may also have a diamond from an old engagement ring that you'd prefer to wear as a pendant or a pair of earrings.

There are often lots of possibilities, although I would always need to examine the stones first to check their condition and suitability for resetting.

The aim is to create something that not only looks beautiful but is also practical and comfortable to wear.

3. Melting Down and Reusing Sentimental Gold

This is another area of jewellery remodelling that I absolutely love.

Gold can sometimes be melted down and incorporated into a new piece of jewellery, allowing you to retain a physical connection to the original item.

Perhaps you have an inherited wedding ring, a broken gold chain or several pieces of gold jewellery that are no longer worn.

Rather than leaving them sitting in a jewellery box, we can explore whether that gold could be used to create something new.

I've worked on commissions where sentimental gold has been incorporated into a new wedding band, and I think there's something incredibly meaningful about knowing that the finished ring contains gold from a loved one's jewellery.

There are a few things to consider, however.

Not all gold is suitable for direct reuse, and different carats and alloys need to be assessed carefully. Sometimes additional precious metal is required, or a different approach may be more appropriate to ensure the finished piece is strong, durable and suitable for everyday wear.

I'll always explain the options and what I would recommend before we proceed.

4. Combining Several Pieces Into One New Design

Do you have several rings, perhaps inherited from different family members, that you'd love to combine into one piece?

This can be a wonderful way of creating something with a very personal meaning.

For example, diamonds from different rings could potentially be arranged together in a new band, or gemstones from several pieces could be used to create a bespoke pendant.

I particularly like the idea of combining stones that each represent somebody special.

It's not just about creating something beautiful; it's about bringing those memories together in a piece that can be enjoyed every day.

5. Turning Rings Into Pendants or Earrings

Not everybody enjoys wearing rings, and sometimes an inherited ring simply isn't practical for everyday life.

But that doesn't mean its gemstones can't be enjoyed in another way.

Depending on the design and condition of the jewellery, we may be able to remove the stones and create a delicate pendant, a pair of earrings or another piece entirely.

A diamond from a sentimental ring could become a simple necklace that sits close to your heart, whilst a pair of matching gemstones might make a beautiful pair of stud earrings.

I love how a relatively small change in the way jewellery is worn can make it feel completely different.

6. Updating Existing Jewellery

Not every piece needs to be completely remodelled.

Sometimes it's the smaller changes that make the biggest difference.

Perhaps a ring needs resizing, a setting could be altered, or a worn piece would benefit from some careful restoration and refinishing.

In other cases, we might be able to adapt part of the original design rather than replacing it entirely.

I always think it's worth exploring these possibilities before deciding on a complete remodel, particularly when the original piece has a great deal of sentimental or historical significance.

7. Creating Memorial Jewellery

Memorial jewellery is another very personal part of my work.

For some clients, having a piece of jewellery made in memory of someone they love can bring an enormous amount of comfort.

This might involve remodelling a loved one's existing jewellery, incorporating gold from a wedding ring or creating a special keepsake using a small amount of ashes or a lock of hair.

I also create memorial jewellery using resin, which can be made in a variety of colours and incorporated into pendants, rings, bracelets and other meaningful pieces.

Every commission is handled with care, sensitivity and respect.

I understand that these aren't simply pieces of jewellery. They hold memories, emotions and connections that are incredibly precious.

Why Remodel Your Jewellery Rather Than Buy Something New?

There are so many reasons why I think jewellery remodelling is worth considering.

The sentimental connection

For me, this is the most important part.

A new piece of jewellery can be beautiful, but when it incorporates something that belonged to somebody special, it carries a story that simply can't be replaced.

Creating something truly personal

Rather than choosing a design from a shop window, you have the opportunity to create something that suits your own taste, lifestyle and personality.

We can consider the style of setting, precious metal, gemstone arrangement and all those little details that make a piece uniquely yours.

Making use of jewellery you already own

Many people have valuable gold or gemstones sitting unworn in jewellery boxes.

Remodelling can be a wonderful way of making use of those existing materials, although the suitability of reusing them will depend on their condition and composition.

A more thoughtful approach

Reusing existing gemstones and, where appropriate, precious metals can reduce the need for newly sourced materials.

It isn't always possible to reuse everything, but I think it's lovely to explore what can be preserved before starting completely from scratch.

Creating something to pass down

A remodelled piece can become a future family heirloom in its own right.

I love the thought of jewellery continuing its journey through the generations, gathering new memories along the way.

How Does the Jewellery Remodelling Process Work?

I appreciate that the idea of changing a sentimental piece of jewellery can feel a little daunting.

After all, these are often items that simply cannot be replaced.

That's why I believe the process should be personal, relaxed and carefully considered.

Step 1 – Let's Have a Chat

We begin with an appointment at my private studio in Tilehurst, Reading.

You're very welcome to bring along the jewellery you're thinking of remodelling, along with any photographs or ideas you've collected.

I'll carefully examine the pieces, discuss their condition and explain what might be possible.

If you have absolutely no idea what you'd like to create, please don't worry! I really enjoy exploring different ideas with clients.

We'll also discuss your budget so that any suggestions are realistic from the outset.

Step 2 – Designing Your New Jewellery

Once we've settled on a direction, I can arrange detailed CAD drawings and realistic colour renders of your proposed design.

This allows you to see what your new jewellery could look like before it's made.

For some commissions, we can also arrange a 3D model, which is particularly helpful for understanding the size, shape and proportions of a design.

I think this is such an exciting part of the process, as it's often the first time clients can really visualise their ideas coming to life.

Step 3 – Creating Your Jewellery

Once you're completely happy with the design and quotation, we can begin creating your new piece.

Depending on the commission, this might involve reusing existing gemstones, incorporating suitable sentimental gold or using newly supplied precious metals and stones alongside your original materials.

Careful consideration is given to the settings, proportions, durability and overall finish.

Step 4 – The Finished Piece

This is my favourite part!

Seeing a client's reaction when they collect their finished jewellery is incredibly rewarding, particularly when we've transformed something that has been sitting unworn for years.

It's lovely to know that a sentimental piece can now be worn and enjoyed again, rather than being tucked away in a box.

A Little Word About Antique and Inherited Jewellery

As an independent jewellery valuer as well as a goldsmith and designer, I have a particular appreciation for older jewellery and the craftsmanship that goes into it.

Before remodelling an antique or inherited piece, I think it's important to understand exactly what you have.

Some older jewellery has historical, collectible or monetary value beyond the value of its gold and gemstones.

In certain circumstances, preserving the original piece may be the better option.

That's why I always recommend having jewellery properly examined before making any irreversible changes.

Sometimes the most appropriate solution is to restore an existing piece, or to create a new design inspired by it whilst keeping the original intact.

I want clients to feel confident that they've considered the options before making a decision.

Do You Have Jewellery Sitting Unworn in Your Jewellery Box?

If you have inherited jewellery, old engagement rings, broken gold chains or pieces that simply aren't your style anymore, please don't feel that you need to know what to do with them before getting in touch.

Sometimes all it takes is a conversation to discover the possibilities.

You may have something that could be beautifully remodelled, or you might decide that it's better left exactly as it is.

Either way, I'm always happy to offer guidance.

I also offer a complimentary jewellery box sorting service, which can be a helpful starting point if you've accumulated a collection of jewellery and aren't quite sure what you have.

We can look through your pieces together, identify those that may be suitable for remodelling and discuss whether anything would benefit from a formal valuation.

There's absolutely no obligation to proceed.

Let's Give Your Jewellery a Beautiful New Beginning

Jewellery remodelling is so much more than simply changing the appearance of a ring or necklace.

It's about preserving memories, celebrating the people we love and creating something meaningful that can continue to be treasured for years to come.

It's a part of my work that I genuinely adore, and I would love to help more people discover what can be achieved with the jewellery they already own.

Whether you have one sentimental ring or a whole jewellery box full of possibilities, I'd be delighted to hear from you.

If you're considering jewellery remodelling in Reading, Berkshire, Newbury or the surrounding areas, please do get in touch.

We can arrange a friendly consultation at my private studio in Tilehurst, Reading, and explore what we might be able to create together.

After all, some of the most beautiful pieces of jewellery begin with something that's already been loved.

Warmest wishes,

Amanda

The Jewellery Appraiser

www.thejewelleryappraiser.co.uk