The Victorian era bangle, adorned with old European cut diamonds, that your grandmother passed down to you is as stunning as she was in a black wrap dress and heels. The thing is, you practically live in the chunky gold cuff you scored at a street market in London. But you don’t have the heart to part with such a special gift.

You don’t have to.

“You may wish to have a piece of inherited jewelry restyled to better reflect your own personal style,” said Esther Fortunoff of Fortunoff Fine Jewelry.

For example, reusing the stones in an inherited bangle in a new piece would allow someone to keep a loved one close. In her store in Westbury, Fortunoff makes refreshing baubles as easy as 1-2-3. We got her to share pro tips with Pulse.

Get a Referral

It helps to bring a photo of how you’d like the final piece to look. Magazines, websites like fortunofffinejewelry.com and social media can provide inspiration.

Tap into your network of friends and colleagues to get recommendations for a designer who is trustworthy, knowledgeable and experienced in restyling jewelry. Designers like Fortunoff have three decades of experience under their belts and have done everything from updating engagement rings, resetting emeralds and creating new pearl bracelets.  “Most importantly, the jeweler should be willing to hear and understand what you would like to see in the restyled piece.” To convey your ideas, consider bringing along photos or even illustrations of what you envision. Try looking for these in magazines, jewelry websites or even photos of a friend’s items. 

Think Outside the Bangle

Gems from an old ring can be used in a new piece, like a bracelet, and can even save money. Experts like Esther Fortunoff will discuss costs and options with customers to find the most gorgeous solutions.

You don’t have to turn your mother’s engagement ring into another ring. “The stones can be reset and augmented for a new design and restyled into a bracelet or necklace.” Larger pieces, such as a long strand of pearls, can be made into several smaller pieces like a bracelet and elegant drop earrings to match.

Keep Cost in Mind

Costs will vary. Be sure to consult with a trusted expert like Esther Fortunoff.

“Costs are a function of what may be required in the design you choose. Casting, wax carving, stone setting, stringing and whether new metal and/or stones will be used can impact the price tag.” The costs are wide-ranging, so it’s best to speak with a trusted jeweler to get an estimate before proceeding.

If You’d Rather Sell…

Sometimes, restyling isn’t for everyone and customers would rather sell and use the money for a new piece. Talk to a trusted expert like Esther Fortunoff to get all of your options.

Restyling inherited jewelry is a desired option for many; others may simply want to sell the piece. Have the piece appraised by someone who does not sell jewelry. Local shops like Fortunoff Fine Jewelry also provides services for selling jewelry and watches.

Let Esther Fortunoff help you find new ways to rock old jewelry or get the most for your baubles. Visit Fortunoff Fine Jewelry at 1504 Old Country Road, Westbury or fortunoffjewelry.com.