Create Your Own Heirloom Jewelry For Your Wedding Day
I'll be the first to admit that I am far from an expert when it comes to jewelry and fashion. I'm the kind of girl who avoids buying something expensive because, "it might
get ruined." (Did I mention that I'm kind of a klutz, too?)
When we got engaged, Jeff and I actually went to a Rhinebeck antique store to look for a wedding ring. My old boss was horrified at the thought of conjuring the ghosts of weddings past, but I sort of liked the idea of recycling a vintage ring by giving it new life with the celebration of our love.
That's why vintage jewelry will always be close to my heart...and perched on my ring finger. I'm also a huge fan of personalizing your wedding with touches that include your loved ones and your family history. So when I learned that you can actually rework your own family's vintage jewelry into custom pieces designed for current wedding fashions, I was HOOKED.
The Story
When jewelry designer Laura Medina-Filipowicz of La Bella Gem lost her grandmother, she was given a bag of vintage jewelry that was beautiful, but too outdated for modern wear. These pieces were far too sentimental to just toss in the trash. Laura had an inspired idea: she could rework the vintage jewelry into a current style that would preserve her grandmother's memory and continue her legacy.
Looking for something old or something borrowed? If your grandmother, mother or aunt has gifted you with a piece of jewelry, you can have a jeweler use one or more pieces to create your own heirloom necklace or earrings to wear on your wedding day.
The jewelry in these photos was actually reworked from the estate jewelry of Laura's grandmother. You can add a dash of color to your bridal jewelry or go for traditional diamonds and pearls. A designer can add your personal style and help you preserve an heirloom for future generations.
So you're interested in creating your own heirloom wedding jewelry. Where do you start?
First, identify the piece or pieces of jewelry you'd like to preserve. Contact a jewelry designer; many can create custom pieces using the beads, gems and style of your 
choice. Gather photos of jewelry you adore and bring that along or ask your designer for inspired ideas.
DISCOUNT ALERT – Laura is offering a 20% discount for anyone reading this article, so make sure you mention it if you contact her at La Bella Gem!
Since you're providing your own jewels, a custom jewelry redesign is extremely affordable and environmentally friendly. Plus, you'll be creating a sentimental piece that perfectly fits your style...one that you can proudly pass on to your children some day.
I've got a couple pieces of aquamarine (my birthstone) jewelry that I inherited from my grandmother, but they are far too large for my small and simple taste. I'm pondering the possibilities even now...
Laura Medina-Filipowicz of La Bella Gem is an eco-conscious designer with a private studio in Los Angeles whose work is inspired and supported by her mother, daughter, husband and love of design.
Image Credits:
Photography by KaraFrans.com
Hair Make-Up by StylesbyBrenda.com
Wardrobe Stylist: Damaris Radut
Clothing Provided by Last September and Pattys Place
Models : Dayna Landry, Andrea Pohlot, Jennifer Couch