Vintage Jewels

I’ve previously written about my grandma in this post. And those who loved her know that she was even more than my words can describe. She had a large part in raising Meg and I and she was so incredibly dear to us. As weddings are drawing nearer, it’s hard knowing she won’t be able to be here for them. Our grandma had four boys, then two grandsons and then us two granddaughters; so as a result all the girly things were saved for us! She taught us how to cook and bake at a young age, took us shopping, did our hair and (my favorite) play with her old jewelry. Every now and then, she’d bring it all out and let us dress up in it. I loved asking her where it came from and who gave it to her–the history behind each one fascinated me.

Three years before she passed away, she realized she wouldn’t be wearing much of her jewelry anymore so she gave us a generous box full of all her costume jewelry she’d collected throughout the years.

This past weekend I cleared out my storage closet and unearthed these special treasures she left behind to her doting granddaughters. In high school I sadly couldn’t quite recognize the uniqueness of these vintage jewels, but years later, as my taste evolved, I can now fully appreciate just how fabulous my grandma’s fashion sense was.

These were her anniversary bracelets from the company she worked for.

I was so touched to discover the jewelry I made for her when I was 10 years old from my rock tumbler. And by “made” I mean glued to the pin and necklace. (Notice how the white backing of the pin is completely showing). I had completely forgot about my rock polishing and jewelry making (jewelry gluing) at such a young age. It was a bizarre yet awesome realization that over a decade later I’ve come back to doing what I loved to do as a child with my jewelry making. It also speaks volumes about my grandma’s character that she’d include a 10 year olds craft project into her treasure chest.

My grandfather’s cufflinks.

This is my favorite necklace I own. When my grandma passed away, Meg took bulky charms off an old charm bracelet of hers and made us pendants of the one that represents us most. I have a deep love for Paris, so she gave me the Arc De Triomphe. I’ve worn this for years and it never ceases to amaze me how many people are drawn to it and ask me where it’s from. I love it because I feel like I’m wearing a little piece of her.

This burgundy, velvet and gold jewelry box now resides on my desk instead of buried in the storage closet. It’s the perfect reminder of my grandma in my day to day life.

And it couldn’t be more perfect timing to rediscover all of these beautiful pieces since today Stephen and I are going to take our engagement photos in Pasadena! I can’t wait to encorporate some of her collection into my photos!

Happy Friday! Have a magical weekend friends! And hug your loved ones extra tight.

-Allison