Keepsaking, Part One

One of the most wonderful gifts that is sometimes handed me is the opportunity to redesign keepsakes for loved ones whose beloved family member has passed away. Recently, I was granted access to a dear lady's jewelry so that I could create new memories for the surviving ladies in her family. Because I went wild with this stash of costumery, I've decided to divide this story into several parts.

First, I gave myself an evening just for sorting through and dreaming about each item. What could I possibly mix together? Since I know a bit about each of the prospective recipients, I kept in mind what may and may not work for these ladies. And I honestly had to keep myself from totally projecting my own preferences into the process.

New life began to unfold as I cleaned and shined each item. I am so guilty, myself, of not always keeping my personal jewelry clean and presentable. Imagine how it is when the jewelry probably hasn't been worn for years. The unearthing is quite exciting!
Since the lady recipients range in age from early 20's to midlifers to golden gals, I recognized the need to design more simply than I might otherwise do. From a rather chunky bracelet, for instance, I deconstructed and redesigned six simple pendants on silk cords:

I think that the young and midlifers will enjoy these. In fact, once I find out if the senior member would care for such a piece, I can easily make one up for her, as well.

Last of the duplications came in the form of ankle bracelets. This trio is made from three different necklaces. All I had to add were new clasps: