Family heirlooms sometimes come in the form of jewelry handed down from one generation to another. If you have never received this type of legacy, perhaps you can start your own to bestow on future generations. Here are some of the more popular items:
1. A mother’s ring. In the past, this might have taken the form of a pearl ring, or one made of another gemstone, that was given by a man to his wife to commemorate the births of their children. Nowadays it is the children who give this ring as a gift on holidays like Mothers Day or Christmas. A simple gold or silver band is set with the number and type of birthstones for each child; for example, a January birth would designate a garnet stone. Four children would lead to four stones on the ring. Naturally, these are specific to each mom due to the births of her children, but upon her passing, it may make a touching memento for one of the children to keep.
2. Grandmother’s brooch. In the 19th century, many women wore brooches or pins at the necks of their gowns. These might feature a rhinestone, cosmetic glass, or true gems. Though brooches are not popularly worn these days, they can adorn a simple evening gown or celebrate a special occasion for the descendents of the original owner. If the pin is no longer worn, it might be displayed in a shadow box as a way of preserving family history and showcasing the item’s beauty.
3. A wedding ring. Wedding bands or even engagement rings sometimes are given to survivors when a family member passes away. Diamond settings on gold bands may be offered to a contemporary loved one during a marriage proposal. Or the ring may be worn by a descendent as part of a set of rings that demonstrate the family bond. Sometimes the stone can be removed from an older band and soldered to a new band that is offered in marriage or as an anniversary present.
4. A pearl necklace. Any type of precious jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, may become an inheritance for one’s descendents. When appraised and cleaned, the item can hold special appeal to those who value family lines and linkages. Or if you don’t plan to wear the jewelry, you can have it matted and framed for a wall hanging or displayed in an attractive clear case on your dresser. If the design is out of fashion, you can always save it for a later time when the style may return and once again become the rage.
5. A class ring. Previous high school or college graduates who purchased a class ring may choose to hand those down to later generations for posterity. A class ring from the 1940’s, for example, carries connotations of World War II as well as a relative’s special achievement. The design may celebrate a bygone era or certain cultural elements that introduce a flood of memories when the ring is worn or observed.
Whatever your heirloom jewelry, protect and preserve it for later generations. Even if you have no current use for it and don’t care for the style, it is likely your successors may feel differently. Have it cleaned, appraised, and stored properly for those who are yet unborn.
