Redesigning Old Family Jewellery Into Modern Pieces

Many homes hold jewellery that is cherished and never worn. It might be too heavy, too dated or not quite your style. Redesign is a way to keep the gold, and often the stones, and turn them into something you will use.

Why families redesign

• To make heavy pieces wearable. A large old necklace can become a lighter pendant and earrings.
• To keep sentimental value. The gold from a grandmother's bangles can live on in a new design.
• To combine pieces. Several small items can be made into one new piece.
• To change style. A traditional design can become a modern one.

What is possible

• Melting old gold and making a new piece.
• Reusing stones in a new setting.
• Changing a ring's design while keeping the stone.
• Splitting one large piece into several smaller ones, such as a pendant and a pair of earrings.

Step 1: bring the pieces for assessment

A jeweller examines each piece and tests the gold for purity. Stones are checked and noted. Bring any documents or family notes. See how to check gold purity.

Step 2: weigh and value

The pieces are weighed, and the net gold weight is established. If stones are present, they are removed from the weight. This tells you how much gold you have to work with.

Step 3: design

You discuss what you want to make. The designer proposes options that fit the amount of gold, stones and your budget. Sketches or a 3D model show the result. See how custom jewellery design works.

Step 4: decide how to use the gold

• Use the same gold: the old gold is melted and used in the new piece. You pay mainly for the making and any additions.
• Exchange the gold: the old gold is valued at the day's rate and credited towards a new piece. See old gold exchange: how it works.

Step 5: make, hallmark and deliver

The new piece is made, set, polished and hallmarked, and delivered with documents. Old gold will carry the purity of the original piece, and any alloy needed is added to reach the right karat for the new piece.

What does it cost?

You usually pay for the making, any new stones and any additional gold, plus tax. Making charges apply as for a new piece. See gold making charges explained. Ask for the breakup and for a statement of the weight of gold put in and the weight returned in the new piece.

Things to consider

• Melting loss: a small amount of gold is lost in melting and finishing. Ask how it is handled.
• Purity changes: old 22K gold used for an 18K diamond piece is alloyed to the new purity, which changes the weight of the finished item.
• Sentiment: some pieces are best kept intact. Consider keeping one or two untouched.

Common questions

Can I keep the original design in a smaller form? Yes, a designer can echo a traditional motif in a lighter piece.

Will I get exactly the same gold back? The gold is mixed during melting, so you get the same weight value, not the same molecules. Ask for the process to be done in front of you if it matters.

Do I need to give notice? A small piece may take a few weeks. Plan ahead for a wedding or festival.

Begin the conversation

Book an appointment and bring a few pieces, or look at our custom design page.