What is an heirloom piece of jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
An heirloom is a jewellery piece that passes from one generation to the next within a family, usually because it carries both financial and personal significance. It might be a grandmother's engagement ring reset for a new wearer, a brooch tied to a family story, or a pearl necklace worn at every wedding in the family. What makes a piece heirloom quality is a combination of good materials, solid construction and the care taken of it over time, so the piece survives generations of wear and retains its meaning.
Frequently asked questions
- What makes jewellery heirloom quality?
- Heirloom quality usually means solid gold or platinum construction, well-set stones of lasting value, and craftsmanship that holds up to decades of wear and repair. Pieces made from plated metals or set with glued stones rarely survive long enough to be passed down.
- How do you care for an heirloom piece?
- Have it professionally cleaned and inspected every year or two so a jeweller can check that settings are secure, clasps work properly and metal is not worn thin. Store it in a soft pouch or a compartmented jewellery box so it is not scratched by other pieces.
- Can you reset an heirloom stone into a new piece?
- Yes, and it is one of the most common reasons people come to a jeweller. The original stone and its meaning carry into a new setting designed for the person who will wear it next, so the piece stays alive in the family rather than sitting unworn in a drawer.
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