Heirloom Renovation

by Jeanna Stapleton.
(Niskayuna, New York USA)

My grandma was my dearest friend. In fact, she was so close to me, that I gave her permission to go in peace on my 18th birthday after a long battle with Cancer.

Understandably, it was hard for any of us to move her jewelry box, let alone wear pieces that were hers. This past Mother’s Day, I asked my mom for permission to take Grandma’s jewelry box and turn the jewelry which was mostly costume, pins and clip ons and turn them into new pieces for the women in our family.

I have made pieces like this for others in the past, but, this was the first time I was doing it for myself. It was so much harder to open that box and to begin. Once I did, I was very pleased. My favorite conversion was of 2 pins that I converted to pendants for “sister” necklaces for my mom and I.

I made about 30 pieces so far, which were gratefully received at Christmas, but, these two were my favorite and I know if she were here, she would be wearing them too!

At first, I wished that I had these skills back then, but, I realize I wouldn’t have been ready for such an emotionally charged journey through the creative process with her pieces. I hope you enjoy and see the joy in these pieces. They are a joyful tribute that allow a part of her to remain close to us.

Jeanna Stapleton
Jewelry by Jeanna at facebook