The stones from a pair of earrings may well be remodelled into the center stones of a bracelet. An old bracelet, on the other hand, may become a parure: earclips, dress or hair clip, and a ring. An old pendant may have stones that can be beautifully reset as earclips and a brooch, and countless other variations and transformations need little more than the imagination and the desire.
Remodelling of Watches
Many a bureau drawer or jewel box holds more than one discarded wrist watch. The setting may be of diamonds or other gems, but the style is passé. This jewel may be brought out and remodelled into a fresh and beautiful piece.
It should not, however, be thought of as the centerpiece in a gold bangle bracelet. Set against the stiff gold, it will not be improved, but will the more clearly proclaim that it is old-fashioned. Instead, the jeweler should consider the possibility of centering the diamond wrist watch in an important diamond and pearl bracelet. If the watch movement is still in good condition, the watch can be incorporated in the bracelet so cleverly that the functional aspect of the timepiece will be wholly subordinate to, if not lost in, the beauty of the jewel.
Adding Pearls
Pearls are perhaps the most adaptable of reformers among the gems. The addition of cultured pearls can be most helpful in restoring the beauty of an outmoded jewel. If the diamonds in the old piece are not many or not large, and a more important or imposing jewel is desired—without the purchase of new precious stones—the jeweler should be able to suggest various new designs in which the sole additions are cultured pearls.
Even the engagement ring is susceptible to flattering new treatment. The fact that the band may have grown too small provides a good occasion for remodelling. In a dome-shaped arrangement of cultured pearls the centered solitaire becomes a more significant gem, never more precious but considerably more imposing.