Cufflinks to Earrings

18K Yellow Gold Earrings Featuring Gray Mother of Pearl and Citrine Earrings

A very good friend of mine was clearing out her father’s house. As you go through someone’s possessions, you often find unexpected things. Her father’s French cuff shirts required cufflinks, which are not as commonly worn as they once were. So what does one do with 18K yellow gold heirloom cufflinks? These are pieces that deserve a second life.

Knowing my client well, I gave her several options for different styles of earrings. We discussed what would suit her best. She was immediately drawn to the idea of hanging earrings to complement her long hair, which is something I always like to consider when designing for each customer.

The cufflinks featured a gray pearlized stone wrapped in 18K yellow gold in a coiled braid design, with a smaller yellow stone in the same coiled setting. They spoke to me about creating something unique for her.

I carefully pulled the cufflinks apart, added secure earring backs, and attached the two coiled sections together with jump rings. This created a secure hanging earring with beautiful movement.

Together, we created a unique pair of earrings that she will enjoy wearing for many years to come.

Tip: When going through inherited jewelry, don’t overlook items you may not think you would wear. Every valuable piece has the potential for a second life.