Family Jewels: Real Women Share Their Gems

SomeĀ of us are lucky enough to possess a piece of jewelry that’s been passed down. Something funky and fabulous that was a treasured relic of a doting grandmother, aunt, or mom. Sometimes the piece has been passed down over several generations. There are always stories behind these gorgeous pieces. My own post on my grandmother’s pearls inspired me to ask friends and readers about their special heirlooms; two of my friends were kind enough to share.

On of my friends from high school sent me some amazing pictures of jewelry that she inherited from her husband’s great grandmother.They were quite well to do and loved to travel. It’s quite clear from looking at the jewelry that these were people of means and taste. My friend asked me what the coin purse was used for and my suggestion was that it was likely used for show, as a way to demonstrate their wealth and prosperity, since it isn’t really big enough to carry much money.

Pearl & Ruby Harem/stack Ring
Pearl & Ruby Harem/stack Ring
Ruby and Pearl Filigree Ring
Ruby and Pearl Filigree Ring
14k gold mesh coin purse
14k gold mesh coin purse

Another friend who goes by sandeeshoes on Instagram, emailed me this ring she inherited from her namesake; her grandmother. I asked her what the significance of the piece was and this is how she responded; “I love antique jewelry, specifically ones that I have gotten from family members. Every time you look at the piece, you think of who gave it to you/who owned it. My mother’s mother passed away the same year I was born. I am her only granddaughter, and to date, her only namesake. I love knowing that the jewelry collection she spent her life cultivating, I own part of. I have some other pieces from her, but this piece I have worn the most. I even bought matching earrings to go with it. I get compliments on it every time I wear it, and consider it an essential piece of jewelry in my collection.”

Smokey Quartz Cocktail Ring

Have an heirloom? Wanna share it with all of us? Email me and put “Family Jewels” in the subject line.