There is one place that often gets overlooked in a clear-out: the jewellery box. Broken chains, orphan earrings, inherited pieces that aren't quite your style — most of us have them. And with gold prices currently at historic highs, that neglected drawer isn't just a mess. It's a hidden asset.
But more than the financial value, it's the sentimental value that matters. Rather than selling old gold for scrap, there is a far more meaningful option: remodelling it into something you'll actually wear every day.
The Hidden Value in Your Jewellery Box
If your jewellery was valued more than a few years ago, it is likely significantly under-insured at today's rates. And those broken 9ct or 18ct gold pieces? They are worth more in raw material than they have been in a generation.
But before you think about selling, consider this: why sell a piece with sentimental history only to buy something mass-produced later? By using your own gold, we can create something from our collections, a variation on one of our designs, or something entirely bespoke — for a fraction of the retail cost. You aren't just buying jewellery; you are investing in a modern heirloom.
A Real Commission: Liz's Story
Liz came to us with a heavy gold cross necklace that had belonged to her father-in-law. The family had owned it for years, and while it was financially valuable, the style just wasn't her. Rather than let it sit in a drawer, we decided to transform it — not once, but twice.
Using sections of the original gold cross, we created a unique geometric necklace for her first daughter — designed in collaboration with her. The result is a contemporary piece that keeps the family history alive in something that can actually be worn and enjoyed.
For her second daughter, we used the remaining gold to create a second pendant using the Lost Wax process — hand-carved from scratch to give each piece its own distinct character, while sharing the same precious origin. One piece of family history, reimagined into two modern heirlooms.
There is something magical about taking a piece of history that is gathering dust and turning it into something you reach for every morning.
The Maker's Process: Lost Wax Casting
The process begins with your jewellery audit. You bring in your old pieces — or send pictures — and we look for hallmarks together to understand exactly what we're working with.
From there, I use the Lost Wax process to hand-carve a new design. Because we work with recycled metals as standard, your old gold fits perfectly into our workflow. We melt it down, cast it into your new design, and hand-finish it in our London studio. Hand-carving directly into wax allows us to develop intricate, sculptural silhouettes and textures that modern 3D printing simply can't replicate — ensuring every commission is entirely unique.
Bespoke Remodelling FAQs
Can you melt down different carats of gold together?
Technically metals can be mixed, but to maintain the purity and legal hallmark of your new piece, it's best to keep carats separate. During a consultation we can have your gold tested to see exactly what we're working with.
How long does the remodelling process take?
Every commission is unique. Typically, the journey from initial wax carving to final polish takes between three to eight weeks. Because we hand-carve the models in wax first, we ensure the design is perfect before moving to the casting stage.
Is remodelled gold as strong as new gold?
Absolutely. Once refined and cast, your recycled gold is just as durable and beautiful as newly mined metal — but with a much smaller environmental footprint. It's the ultimate way to enjoy luxury jewellery with a clear conscience.
Why not just sell the gold?
By choosing to remodel your own gold, you are locking in the value of the metal you already own, bypassing the rising costs of new raw materials — and keeping the story alive.
Ready to Audit Your Jewellery Box?
Whether you want to understand the value of your pieces or discuss a complete transformation, we'd love to help. There's no charge or obligation for an initial conversation.