Old Gold Jewelry Redesign
Old Gold, Reimagined. Still Yours.
Old gold redesign is a bespoke service at LMJ in which inherited, unworn, or sentimental gold is assessed and - where suitable - used as the foundation for a new piece designed specifically for you. We work with clients in person at our atelier in central Zurich, and remotely for those elsewhere in Switzerland or abroad.
Starting from what you already own
Most bespoke commissions begin with new material. This one begins with yours. If you have gold that carries meaning - an inherited ring, a broken chain, a piece that no longer fits who you are - we can assess it and, where the material is suitable, use it as the base for something new.
The process and standards are identical to any LMJ bespoke commission: a consultation, a wax model, handmaking in the atelier. The difference is simply where the gold comes from.
For clients who would prefer to start entirely from new material, our One-of-a-Kind Bespoke Service is the right place to begin.
What to bring
There is no fixed list. If you have gold that matters to you but no longer serves you, it is worth a conversation. Clients arrive with all kinds of pieces:
- Inherited rings — from a grandparent, a parent, a family member
- Broken chains or bracelets no longer in wearable condition
- Family pieces that feel dated or no longer suit your style
- Loose stones — diamonds or coloured gems without a setting
- Several smaller pieces you would like combined into one
You do not need to know the carat or condition of your pieces before coming in. We assess everything ourselves and tell you clearly what can be reused before anything is agreed.
If you would like more detail before your first conversation, consider our FAQ below or our guide What to Do with Old Gold Jewelry
What can be made
Old gold can become almost anything. The pieces most commonly made through this service:
- Wedding and commitment bands - the most frequent request. Inherited gold carries a kind of history that many clients want present in their wedding jewellery.
- Engagement rings - particularly those incorporating a family stone in a contemporary setting.
- Pendants and necklaces - rings that can no longer be worn, transformed into something that can be.
- Everyday rings - several broken or unworn pieces combined into a single, clean band made for daily life.
- A single considered piece from material belonging to several family members, together in one piece.
The new piece is designed from the beginning around you your proportions, your aesthetic, the way you actually wear jewellery.
How the process works
Most projects take between six and ten weeks from initial consultation to delivery. The process unfolds in six stages.
1. Initial consultation
In person at the atelier in Zurich, or by video call if you are not locally based. Bring your pieces - or simply a photograph to begin the discussion.
2. Assessment
We examine the condition, and weight of your material, and assess any stones. We share what we find and what it means for the design before any work is agreed.
3. Design direction and model
A design concept is developed through sketches, references, and material samples — shaped by what your material can become and what you want to create. You do not need to arrive with a clear idea. A model is prepared so you can assess the shape, scale, and proportion of the piece before production begins. We refine the design together until it feels right.
4. Production
The piece is made using your original gold as the foundation. Any additional material needed is added at this stage and included transparently in the quote. We keep you informed at key points during production.
5. Delivery
The finished piece is presented at the atelier, or shipped securely if you are not based in Zurich. We remain available after delivery for cleaning, checking, or any questions.
FAQ section
These are the questions we are most often asked before a first conversation.
What is the difference between this service and a standard bespoke commission?
The process and quality are the same. The difference is the starting point. In this service, your existing gold becomes the material foundation for the new piece. In a standard bespoke commission, we begin from new material. If you have old gold you would like to use, this is the right route. If you are starting entirely fresh, our one-of-a-kind bespoke service is where to begin.
Can reusing old gold reduce the cost of a bespoke commission?
Often yes. Because you already own the material, reusing it reduces part of the gold cost of the new piece. The labour involved in assessing, designing, and making is the same either way. Projects typically start from CHF 1,200 for simpler commissions, rising with complexity. We provide a clear, itemised quote after the assessment.
Can all old gold be reused?
In most cases, solid gold pieces can be melted and recast. But not always, and not always without additional steps. Chains often require refining before recasting. Gold-filled and gold-plated pieces cannot be recovered as gold at all. We assess everything honestly at the consultation and advise before any work begins
Can stones from my old piece be reused?
Often yes. Diamonds are reliably reusable in most cases. Coloured stones depend on type and condition - sapphires and rubies are commonly reset; emeralds, opals, and pearls are generally too fragile. Each stone is assessed individually. We advise on any removal risk before proceeding and never remove a stone without your agreement.
Can old gold be used for wedding bands?
Yes — this is the most common request in this service. Inherited gold carries a kind of meaning that many clients want present in their wedding jewellery. We can use your material as the foundation for one or both rings.
How long does the process take?
Most projects take between six and ten weeks from the initial consultation to delivery of the finished piece. We confirm the timeline before production begins.
Do I need to come to Zurich?
Not necessarily. Initial consultations can be held by video call. Many clients across Switzerland and from abroad begin remotely, then visit the atelier for the wax model review. Pieces can be sent to us securely by insured post.
Do I need to know what carat or type of gold I have?
No. We test and assess everything at the consultation. If you have hallmarks or documentation they are helpful — but not required.
What happens to material that cannot be used?
Any material that cannot be incorporated is returned to you.
Begin with a consultation
If you have a piece you are not sure what to do with, the first step is simply a conversation. We are based in Zurich and work with clients remotely too.
