Past, Present, Future

by Gretchen Cole.
(Buffalo, New York USA)

Past, Present, Future – Vintage coral colored resin beads with chalcedony, carnelian and leather

While cleaning out my grandmother’s attic after her passing, I discovered a box of vintage jewelry. Among them was a collection of salmon colored carved beads that were part of a broken necklace. I think they are resin or some other form of plastic and guess their age to be from somewhere in the 40s or earlier.

After I made pairs of earrings for my sisters and mother, I took the remaining beads and paired them with aqua blue chalcedony and deeper orange carnelian gems. They are strung on a leather cord and are finished with my handmade sterling clasp.

Anytime I wear this necklace, I receive compliments on how unique and pretty the colors are together. I love to share the story of my discovery of the beads and always think of my Grandmother when I wear it. Of all the jewelry I have made, it is my favorite piece.

Gretchen Cole
Gretchen Cole Jewelry
Gretchen Cole Jewelry on Etsy