I Inherited Jewelry That's Not My Style– What Are My Options?

There's something deeply meaningful about inheriting a piece of jewelry from a loved one. Whether it came from a grandparent, parent, or someone close to your heart, the story behind it is priceless. But what if the piece itself... just isn't you?

You're not alone. We hear this all the time at Indy Facets. The good news? You don't have to let that heirloom sit untouched in a drawer. There are beautiful, respectful ways to honor the piece's meaning and make it your own.

Left: Client Heirloom Ring | Right: Client New Ring

REPURPOSE THE HEIRLOOM

This is our favorite option. You can keep the original stones or metal, and design something entirely new around them. Whether it's turning a vintage brooch into a modern pendant, or setting diamonds into a minimalist ring, we help clients transform heirlooms into pieces they're excited to wear every day, You keep the story, just update the look.

Think:

• Turning a chunky vintage ring into a delicate pendant

• Resetting Grandma’s diamonds into a sleek band

• Using inherited gold as part of your own engagement ring

Repurposing an heirloom allows generations to live on in your new piece. You might use the gold from Grandma’s wedding band and the diamond from Mom’s first engagement ring to create something uniquely yours, something your own child may one day add to as well. It’s a beautiful way to carry their stories forward, while starting a new chapter of your own.

RESTORE OR REFRESH THE ORIGINAL PIECE

Sometimes all a piece needs is a little care to bring it back to life. We can professionally clean, polish, tighten stones, replace worn prongs, or even make small updates like swapping out a chain, changing the band, or adjusting the setting, while keeping the original design and character intact.

This option is perfect if you love the sentiment and general style of the piece but want it to feel a bit more "you." It's a thoughtful way to preserve its history while subtly modernizing the details. A refreshed heirloom still tells the same story, just with a clearer, brighter voice.

SAVE IT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Maybe it's not your everyday vibe, but you still love the meaning. No rule says you have to wear it all the time. Some people choose to keep inherited pieces for holidays, anniversaries, or weddings. Others tuck them away, intending to pass them on when the time feels right.

Whatever your reason, preserving the piece with care ensures its story continues. We recommend getting your jewelry appraised, professionally cleaned, and stored properly to protect its beauty and value for the years ahead. Whether it stays in your family for generations or becomes a future heirloom for someone else, we’ll help you protect it for the future.

TRADE IT TOWARD SOMETHING NEW

Some clients decide it's time to close a chapter. We can help you evaluate the piece for gold, gemstone, or diamond value, and offer options to sell or trade it toward something new that reflects who you are today. It's a way to honor the past by creating something meaningful for your future.

NOT SURE WHICH OPTION FEELS RIGHT?

Let's talk it through. Bring your piece into Indy Facets, share the story behind it, and we'll help you explore what's possible. Whether that's redesign, restoration, or something else entirely, your story matters, and we'll treat it with care.

Schedule an appointment at www.indyfacets.com/schedule or call our office at 317-810-1665.