From time to time, I get the opportunity to use my jewelry skills to give new life to an old piece that’s seen better days. I love projects like these because they tie my love for vintage to my creative work, which usually involves making brand-new items. Some projects are more intricate and involve a complete redesign while others, like this, simply need to be restrung to be ready to wear again! I am so pleased with how this vintage necklace turned out with just a little bit of extra TLC.

This piece came to my studio from a friend of mine who found the necklace while thrift shopping and thought it would be the perfect birthday gift for his sister. The only problem with the piece was that the stringing thread was clearly falling apart and it needed to be restrung with something sturdier. Thankfully, he was able to see the piece’s potential and knew just the person to call to give this special piece a much-needed refurbish.

The stones (real turquoise – beautiful!) and golden clasp were in great shape, so my job was easy. I chose white natural silk thread to restring the necklace in a nice heavy weight. The beads were large and I wanted to make sure that they wouldn’t pull apart the knots and come unstrung with regular wear and tear. A few extra knots along the length of the silk thread did just the trick to reinforce the construction.

So, with just a little love and some new thread this timelessly beautiful necklace is ready for action again!

Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry that could use a little refurbishing? Maybe some pretty earrings with tarnished hooks or a bracelet whose elastic is shot? I’d love to give new life to your old favorites. Send me an email for information on pricing and available repair services! 

Xo, Ali