Heirloom Jewellery 101: How to Start a Family Tradition 

Heirloom Jewellery 101: How to Start a Family Tradition 

Jewellery holds an unmatched sentimental value, making it one of the most loved family heirlooms. A well-chosen jewellery piece can tell a story, preserve memories, and be passed down through generations, carrying love and history with it. 

If you’re looking to start a new family tradition with fine jewellery, this guide will help you choose meaningful, timeless pieces that will stand the test of time. Find your future heirlooms, here. 

1. Why Jewellery Makes the Perfect Heirloom 

Unlike other possessions, jewellery is personal, wearable, and durable, making it the perfect heirloom to pass through generations. High-quality pieces: 

• Hold sentimental and financial value 
• Can be worn and enjoyed for years 
• Are small and easy to store or transport 
• Become symbols of legacy 

Starting an heirloom tradition now means your loved ones will always have a tangible connection to their family history. 

2. Choosing the Right Heirloom Jewellery Pieces 

Not every piece of jewellery is suited to becoming an heirloom. The key is to invest in timeless designs and durable materials that will remain wearable and cherished for decades. Here are some ideas to get your collection started. 

Signet Rings  

• Signet rings have been used for centuries to represent family lineage, often engraved with initials, symbols, or crests. Their classic design ensures they never go out of style, making them a meaningful heirloom choice. 
• Opt for solid gold or platinum for longevity 
• Personalise with an engraving to make it uniquely yours 

Diamond or Gemstone Pendant  

• A simple diamond or birthstone pendant is timeless and can be worn daily. Passed down through generations, it remains a wearable and sentimental piece. 
• Diamonds are the most durable choice, but sapphires, rubies, and emeralds also last generations 
• Choose a bezel or rubover setting for added security and durability 

Tennis Bracelet  

• A diamond tennis bracelet is a refined and elegant heirloom that suits all generations. It transitions effortlessly between formal and casual occasions, ensuring it remains loved across time. 
• Look for solid gold settings for durability 
• Consider a piece with an extra secure clasp to protect it over time 

Eternity Bands 

• Eternity rings, often passed down from mothers to daughters, symbolise unbreakable love and commitment. Their delicate design ensures they remain sentimental yet stylish for generations. 
• Full or half-eternity bands work well as family heirlooms 
• Opt for lab-grown diamonds for an ethical, modern take on tradition 

3. Personalising Heirloom Jewellery 

Adding personal details makes heirloom jewellery even more meaningful. Consider these ways to make a piece unique: 

• Engraving – Add initials or a meaningful date 
• Birthstones – Incorporate the birthstones of family members for a personal touch 
• Lockets – Keep pictures of your loved ones close 
• Initials – Choose initial pieces with special meanings to your family 

These small details create an emotional connection, making the jewellery even more special. 

4. How to Care for Heirloom Jewellery 

For jewellery to last generations, it needs proper care. Follow these tips to preserve its beauty and value: 

• Store properly – Keep heirlooms in a lined jewellery box to prevent scratches 
• Clean regularly – Use a soft brush and mild soap or professional cleaning services 
• Get regular check-ups – Have a jeweller inspect settings to ensure stones are secure 
• Pass it down with a story – Include a handwritten note detailing the jewellery’s history and significance 

5. Passing Down Jewellery: Creating a Tradition 

To truly start a tradition, it helps to make the jewellery’s passing a special moment. Here’s some ways to make giving jewellery extra special:

• Giving it during a milestone event – Birthdays, weddings, graduations, or new births 
• Sharing its story – Explain the significance and why it’s being passed down 
• Adding to the collection – Each generation can add a new piece, expanding the tradition 

By treating heirloom jewellery as more than just a trending accessory, you ensure it remains a priceless family treasure. 

Find Your Modern Heirloom 

Heirloom jewellery isn’t just about the gold and gemstones, it’s about the stories, memories, and love it carries. Invest in high-quality jewellery pieces and ensure they can be passed down the generations. Shop here, read about lab-grown diamonds as heirloom pieces, or chat to our customer service team and find your perfect future heirloom.