Vintage Rehab by Stacey Samuels

The History of Hair Jewelry

2010-09-27T14:50:00.001-07:00

While antique shopping at the Grand Bazaar in Turkey, I came across this valuable vintage locket. Jewelry made with hair is dated back to at least the 1600's, when both men and women gave hair bracelets as love tokens. During this time one was likely to find the hair placed under glass and used as a background for initials or some other personal symbol to the wearer. Hair jewelry stayed popular until the late 1800's. At the time of the American Civil War (1861-1865), hair jewelry became popular once more as women wore the hair of husbands and sons in brooches and lockets, while soldiers may have a watch chain made from the hair of a loved one back at home.

Hair art was common throughout the Victorian era (1837-1901). It was used for a variety of functions from recording family history to tokens of affection exchanged between lovers. Naturally, hair art also became popular means to memorialize loved ones who had passed on. Mourning jewelry created with hair was intensely popular because it did not violate the strict code of conduct Victorian society imposed upon the conduct and dress of grieving persons. Queen Victoria gave pieces of jewelry made from her hair as gifts; many of these pieces were given to her children and grandchildren. Napoleon wore his watch on a chain made from the hair of his wife, Empress, Marie Louise.

Hair was valued for sentimental reasons at a time when there were no photographs. In lieu of photographs, young girls kept scrapbooks of their schoolmate's hair, usually with a name and verse to go with it identifying whose hair it was. In the late 1800's and early 1900's, postcards and valentines were sent with hair attached. The sentimental sender would glue locks of their hair onto specially made postcards, (a picture of a beautiful woman) and send it to someone as a keepsake.

Now, hair art and hair jewelry is a collectible that may be worth a lot of money. Today there are only a few hair artists who are making this type of jewelry. There are no schools where one can go for instructions, so this art is self-taught. An enormous amount of time is spent learning the different techniques. The process of creating a piece of hair jewelry can take anywhere from 8-10 hours or days depending on the size and detail of the piece. The process begins by sorting the hair, counting the hair, and then tying the strands into groups. That is why woven hair jewelry is very valuable.

1900's Gibson Girl Locket Necklace

2010-02-01T11:07:00.000-08:00

The pen and ink drawings of illustrator Charles Gibson came to represent the spirit of the early twentieth century in America. The “Gibson Girl” is probably the best remembered of the artist’s images. Some people argue that the Gibson Girl was the first national standard for feminine beauty. The images of her epitomized the late 19th and early 20th century Western preoccupation with statuesque, youthful features, and ephemeral beauty. She was portrayed as the feminine ideal in elegant dresses, bustle gowns, shirtwaists, and terraced, shorter skirts. With her hair piled atop her head and a waist so tiny as to defy belief, the Gibson Girl represented a serene self-confidence that could surmount any problem.

This is a rare cameo locket with a beautiful portriat of a Gibson Girl surrounded in flowers and embellished with small faceted stones. It is gold filled circa 1905. The necklace is an etched 14k gold filled chain with vintage crystal beads, and my signature cloisonne bead at the clasp.

This 1900's Gibson Girl Locket Necklace is on sale at www.vintagerehab.etsy.com.

Family Heirlooms

2009-12-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Originally from the Victorian era, lockets have been around for centuries and their uses are constantly expanding from being given as a condolence for those who have lost a loved one, to romantic gifts and keepsakes passed down into every generation.

At a trunk show last weekend, a woman became teary-eyed as she looked a my vintage locket necklaces. She told me that her mother once had a locket with her initials on it, but it was stolen. It was a one-of-a-kind heirloom that had much more sentimental value than worth. For years, this woman has been searching for her mother's locket or a special replacement. Finally, she found a one with her inital 'H'. Unfortunately, now her mother is very sick, so she hesitated to buy.

Days later a man ordered this same locket for his wife who will be delivering their first child any day now. Although the little girl's name is a secret he told me it starts with a H, so this piece spoke to him. What a sentimental gift to commemorate this special day. I imagine the proud mama showing off her baby's picture inside the locket. In turn, I picture the daughter's excitement then this family heirloom is passed down to her. Already this 1900's 'H' Locket Necklace has many stories to tell. This is what I love about vintage lockets. Check out all of the fabulous, one-of-a-kind, vintage locket necklaces by Vintage Rehab.

Vintage Silver Cameo Locket Necklace

2009-10-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

This vintage, sterling silver, cameo locket looks very Romanesque and Grecian which is where most of the truly superior ancient cameo carving originated. It is in mint condition. The necklace is a new sterling silver chain with vintage givre west german slate glass beads and sterling silver spacer beads, and my signature cloisonne bead at the clasp.

For thousands of years, people have worn carved images as personal jewelry adornments. This lovely carved sculpture has cast a romantic spell over the wearers for centuries. Seen as both a keepsake for sentimental reasons, and a means of wearing gorgeous works of art, the cameo is one of the most treasured piece of vintage jewelry.

This Vintage Silver Cameo Locket Necklace is on sale at vintagerehab.etsy.com.

Buddha Locket Necklace

2009-08-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

For over a year, I hunted for a vintage Buddha locket for one of my best clients. And, I finally found one! YIPPEE! It was like finding the treasure chest at the end of the map after a long journey. The dimensionality and detail of this locket is amazing. I paired it with a sterling silver chain that is accented with vintage Swarovski grey crystal bead. She LOVES it!

Are looking for a sentimental piece or have a family heirloom or other jewel laying around that you want to wear again or give to someone special? I would love to custom design a piece for you. Please contact me if you are interested.

1900's 'DVA' Locket Necklace

2009-08-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

I love finding vintage lockets with the original photos inside. This one dates back to the 1900's which makes these photographs over 100 years old. It is a gold-filled, circular locket that is beautifully etched with a moon and star stone inlay. On the back the initials 'DVA' are engraved. The necklace is a new 14k gold filled chain accented with vintage clear crystal beads. This 1900's 'DVA' Locket Necklace is on sale at vintagerehab.etsy.com.

New York + Lime Green = Bittersweet

2009-08-08T09:37:00.000-07:00

Evolution is IIDA's (International Interior Design Association) annual fundraising event. Every year, local interior design firms enter a design competition. This year each company was given a different color and city. My team was assigned New York + lime green. We had to create a collage within specific size parameters, only using black and white and the color we were given. We titled our piece "Bittersweet" which represents fashion in the big apple. I love challenging my creativity and am proud to say that we won 1st place.

Vintage Money Clip Bracelet

2009-04-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

I bought this vintage money clip at an estate sale with no intention of using it for that purpose. Instead, I saw it as a unique bracelet. It is made of sterling silver with a a two-toned mother of pearl portrait with three faces. A sterling silver frame is embellished with tiny crystal stones. I reshaped the clip, creating a loop on both sides. Then, I attached a dark-brown leather strand at each end that wrap around the wrist eleven times, and connect with a magnetic clasp. This Vintage Money Clip Bracelet is a one of a kind piece for sale online at Vintage Rehab's shop.

Family Tree

2009-04-14T11:37:00.001-07:00

Every time I go to my grandparents house I pull out the boxes of old family photos. It is fascinating to see what my relatives looked like, discover where they came from, and learn more about them. I was especially excited to find this old picture of my great grandmother, Sarah and two of her sisters, Ethel and Bess.

Sarah is my great grandmother from my mother's side, who I am named after. In the photo she is wearing a locket necklace that reminds me of some of the vintage lockets that I have found. It would be so special to have this family heirloom, but maybe if I am lucky enough I will find it in an antique store someday.

Old Found Treasures

2009-04-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

My friend Jenna loves her collection of vintage costume jewelry, but seldom wears any of these pieces due to their extreme gaudiness. While flipping through her recent copy of W Magazine, she was inspired by a photo shoot of a woman with a bunch of Mardi Gras beads draped around her neck to design this necklace. It was created using seven charm bracelets and six pairs of clip on earrings.

Jenna says, "I never throw anything away. There is always a use for stuff even if you aren't using for it's original intention. I love redecorating my house with new found treasures and it always crosses over into my wardrobe."

A Letter From Miles

2009-04-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

Today, I received an email from a customer that I want to share. I love getting notes like this. Thank you for the kind note, Miles. I can't believe I missed that photo.

Hi Stacey,

I just wanted to send you a quick note to tell you that my girlfriend (and myself and everyone else) loves the locket. It''s perfect and just what I hoped it would be. Interesting though, when I was opening it up to put pictures in out popped a really faded and old picture of a baby...it was quite spooky...I assume you must have missed it or did you know it was there? Either way we have decided to treat it as a good luck sign and assume it was a happy baby...as opposed to this being the beginning of a horror film:) Anyway, thought you might find that interesting.

Thank you again,

Miles

Vintage Locket Collection

2009-02-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

I am always on the hunt for vintage lockets and am very excited about my most recent finds. I stumbled along these heirlooms at a local antique store. They are Victorian, dating back to the late 1800's - early 1900's. All of the pieces are 14k gold-filled and in mint condition.

The heart locket has a clear gems in the center. Adjacent is a circular locket with a raised design that is embellished with clear jewels. I passed on the plain gold locket and bought the one with moon and star that is accented with stones. Even more special are the old is are old photos of someone's loved ones inside.

Next, I rehab them and make chains that pair well with each one. Keep checking Vintage Rehab's shop for new vintage locket necklaces.

Vintage Swarovski Crystals

2009-02-05T13:08:00.000-08:00

I design one-of-a-kind vintage locket necklaces. Many have rare Swarovski crystals wire-wrapped throughout the chain. The green Swarovski crystals on this 1900's Embellished Locket Necklace accent the stone in the center of the locket. Other unique vintage locket necklaces are available at Vintage Rehab.

Since 1895, Swarovski crystal beads have been made from the finest crystal lead glass, cut and ground with such precision that they sparkle as brilliantly as diamonds. The brilliance comes from the light bouncing off internal surfaces in the lead crystal. In the 1950's Swarovski crystals were very popular. Competitive jewelry designers, such as Weiss, Coro, Trifari, Lisser, Capri, Napier and Royal of Pittsburg commissioned Daniel Swarovski to produce exclusive beads for them.

Many colors, shapes and sizes of vintage Swarovski crystals were discontinued because they were to expensive to mass-produce. Collectible colors, such as mink, purple givre, scarabee, joulan, elestria dark, carousel, fantasy, ghost, dark sunburst, ambrosia, cognac, joulet, cinnamon, honey, meadow, sarnell, sun and steel have not been made in decades. Vintage Swarovski beads are also uncommon because of their size and shape, including the oval, octagon, disco balls and the pagoda.

The Art of Filigree

2009-01-28T12:45:00.000-08:00

For centuries, the art of filigree has been used to craft jewelry such as pins, rings and pendants, reaching the height of its popularity during the Art Deco period of the 1920's and 1930's. At the time, this method of producing open patterns was more common than molding or casting.

Filigree is formed using twisted threads of gold and silver to create delicate, lacy, openwork jewelry. Artists hammer malleable metal into thin filaments, then twists and bends them into intricate designs, and solders them at their overlapping junctures. Vines, leaves, buds, waving hair, and spider webs are common motifs.

Many ancient cultures, including Greece, Rome, Armenia, India and China used such delicately woven jewelry to celebrate marriage, birth, as well as fancy ornamentation for royalty. Antique filigree can be found in museums around the world.

I found this 1930's sterling silver locket is from an estate sale. The face is matte silver with a clear stone in the center. It has an ornate filigree pattern around the edge of the piece. This 1930's Silver Filigree Locket Necklace is a one-of-a-kind piece available at Vintage Rehab.

The Story Inside a Locket

2009-01-25T19:36:00.000-08:00

Lockets are fascinating because they tell a story. When you open an old locket for the first time, a mystery is to be discovered. I love finding ones with the original photographs still in tact. I imagine who wore it and the meaning of the photos inside. Most often they are one's parents, husband or children that a woman once wore close to her heart. I was quite a surprise to find a picture inside this locket of Bing Crosby, a musician that someone greatly admired.

This 1910's Moon and Star Locket Necklace is available at Vintage Rehab's store.

History of Cameo Lockets

2009-01-24T10:24:00.000-08:00

Throughout history, royalty figures have set the trends for jewelry fashion. In the fifteenth and sixteenth century, Queen Victoria of England popularized cameo lockets. Queen Elizabeth and Catherine the Great also had a very impressive collection of them.

Since then, women began collecting cameos to show their cultural status, prestige and wealth. Cameos feature images of mythological gods and goddesses, heroes and rulers, and biblical events. These reliefs predominately showcased women's profiles, and depicted an ethic or moral, or to make a statement about faith and loyalties.

This beautiful vintage sterling silver cameo locket is from the 1940's. I paired it with an ornate sterling silver chain that accents the relief border around the locket. You can purchase this 1940's Silver Cameo Locket Necklace at Vintage Rehab's online store.

Rattlesnake Guitar Strap

2009-01-20T11:56:00.000-08:00

Last summer, my fiance went fishing with his friends. They didn't have much luck that day. Instead of catching fish to cook, he brought back a rattlesnake. It was over 5 feet long with a beautiful diamond pattern.

This is a guitar strap that I made with the snake skin. I laced the edges with dark brown leather to match the criss-cross design. Best of all, I attached the rattle to the end. He loves to shake it while he plays his guitar.

We used the meat to make this rattlesnake cake recipe, which was not very good. Try it at your own risk.

1800's Fan Necklace

2009-01-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

While hunting for vintage lockets, I came across this amazing 1800's fan pin made in Portugal by Topazio. The filagree design is gold plated sterling silver that is adorned with painted enamel flowers and a dangling fleur-de-lye charm.

Although I mostly create vintage locket necklaces, I couldn't resist this exceptional piece. I paired this fashionable pin with a very ornate, new 14k gold filled chain. You can find this necklace at my etsy store.

Vintage Rehab Bracelets

2009-01-06T10:41:00.000-08:00

I have created a new line of Vintage Rehab bracelets. This rectangular shaped shell button is a rare vintage find. A dark brown leather strand is threaded through it and wraps around the wrist eleven times, and connects with a strong magnetic clasp. They are available in dark brown, light brown, green and coral leather. Please check out my etsy store to see my new designs.

All Stitched Up

2008-12-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

Everyone appreciates the thought put into a handmade, one-of-a-kind gift. This is a poncho I just finished knitting for my mother. It is a simple garter stitch. The yarn changes colors throughout, creating a striped pattern. I wove a strand of leather at the neck that tightens to give it shape. A few months ago, my mom and I were shopping at one of my favorite boutiques. We both really liked a similar tubular sweater, which inspired this design of mine. It didn't quite turn out the same, but even better.

Hunting for Treasures

2008-12-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

You ask, "where do I find vintage lockets?" I buy them at estate sales and from antique jewelry dealers. I always ask the seller about the history of the pieces and learn a lot from talking to them. Recently, while hunting for vintage treasures, I came across the most beautiful lockets that I have ever seen. It is a rare Art Nouveau locket with a relief of a woman blowing bubbles. I especially love how the bubbles are accented with jewels.

Vintage Purse Collection

2008-12-18T20:00:00.000-08:00

This is my collection of vintage purses. Some were my grandma's and mother's. Those are very sentimental. The others I found at thrift stores. They are all unique and one of a kind. That to me is what makes them special.

Them Boots Are Made For Walking

2008-12-17T14:06:00.001-08:00

Cowboy boots are symbolic of the Wild West and their designs take their inspiration from centuries of boot making. Horseman wore boots to protect the inner calf from rubbing on the saddle and the outer calf from nettles and brambles. The purpose of the stacked heel was to stabilize the foot in the stirrup. One of the most interesting things about vintage cowboy boots is that they were mostly custom made and nearly every pair is different. Here is my collection of vintage cowboy boots. Like Cinderella, I hunt for a boot that fits.

Recycled Jewelry Pouches

2008-12-13T09:40:00.000-08:00

In addition to recycling, it is important to not to waste materials. Instead of throwing away leftover fabric scraps, I save them to make jewelry pouches for every Vintage Rehab necklace and bracelet. Inside each one is a description of the piece and my business card.

TOMS - Shoes for Tomorrow

2008-12-12T06:19:00.000-08:00

Today, I bought a pair of shoes that are made of 67% hemp and 33% recycled plastic bottles. Hemp is one of the strongest natural fibers in the world and can easily be grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers.

Also, "for every pair of shoes you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of shoes to a child in need. Since its beginning in May 2006, TOMS has given over 10,000 pairs of shoes to children in Argentina and 50,000 pairs in South Africa through the purchases of our caring customers. In 2008 TOMS plans to give 200,000 pairs of shoes to children in need around the world."

Instead of feeling guilty for buying another pair shoes that I definitely don't need, I can look down at my new TOMS and know that I did something positive for the environment and for poverty stricken children. For more information go to www.TOMSshoes.com.

A Flower to Brighten Your Day

2008-12-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

Throughout the week, my friend goes to his neighborhood flower shop and saves the plants that are being thrown out. They are still alive and some are still blooming. I am surprised at all of the beautiful roses, lilies, orchids, and other flowers that are in the dumpster. He gives them to friends and even strangers to brighten their days. All of the larger plants and trees he keeps on his patio and nurtures them back to life. I admire him for doing something everyday to contribute to a more beautiful, healthy environment.

Saving the Planet

2008-12-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Before you throw something away, think about where it is going to end up. When it comes to garbage, we tend to treat it as out of sight, out of mind. We set out our trash, someone comes and gets it, and it magically disappears! Unfortunately, it doesn't really go away. It becomes part of the wast stream and travels to its final resting place.

Four basic options for waste are: 1) composting, 2) recycling, 3) incineration, 4) landfill. Composting is a critical step in reducing the volume of garbage needlessly sent to landfills for disposal. Here is a guide to composting. I am amazed by all of the things that can be recycled. This is a good website to learn how commonly used goods and more obscure materials can be recycled. Please help save the planet!

Unlocking Old Memories

2008-12-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

I recently uncovered this vintage treasure at an estate sale. It is a Victorian locket from the 1900's. Inside is the original photo of a little girl that a woman once wore to remember a loved one. What a beautiful keepsake. The face of the locket has a unique basket weave and jeweled design. I made a new chain for it with gold filled chain and wire wrapped vintage crystal beads throughout. Check out the 1900's Jeweled Basket Weave Locket Necklace available for sale at my etsy store.

Handmade Jewelry Display

2008-12-05T11:46:00.000-08:00

I needed a way to display my necklaces and bracelets on for trunk shows and didn't want to buy some expensive display or a cheap one that would reflect upon my jewelry design. So, I created this jewelry display with a scrap of wood, tree branch, and spray paint. Most of these materials I found around my house and backyard. The tree branch fits into a hole drilled in the wood base and comes apart for easy portability. Best of all, it cost less than $10 to make.

Vintage Rehab Trunk Show

2008-10-26T20:45:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday I hosted my 1st trunk show featuring one-of-a-kind vintage locket necklaces. It was held at Shiki, a local Austin boutique where I consign some of my jewelry.

My Vintage Rehab collection was displayed together for the first time. I (a very modest designer) was in awe and so proud of all of my work. The most rewarding part was telling people about the history of the antique lockets and other vintage finds.

Everyone complimented my designs and best of all I sold a few pieces. Being that the majority of my sales are online, I don't often get to meet my customers and see them try on their necklace. This was a great experience and great marketing tool to continue on doing.

Keepsake Child's Locket Necklaces

2008-09-21T21:47:00.001-07:00

My sister just gave birth to a baby girl named Emma Rose. I am a proud aunt and can't wait to watch her grow up. To remember this special moment, I created a locket necklace for her with a picture of her baby that she can wear close to her heart. Also, I was inspired to create a new line of one-of-a-kind, vintage child's locket necklaces. What a perfect keepsake baby gift for a mother and child that will be passed on for generations!

One of my favorite ones is the Vintage Child's Flower Heart Locket Necklace. This vintage heart locket is embossed with a floral motif and now hangs on new chain accented with gold beads. Please check out my new designs at www.vintagerehab.etsy.com!

Post-it Collage

2008-09-21T21:17:00.000-07:00

My cousin studied for months for his BIG psychology exam. Post-its with facts covered on his test were tacts on every surface of his apartment to help him prepare. All of the colors, handwriting, and what they said inspired me to create a piece of art to hang in his office. First, I made a cardboard structure that folded like a fan. Then, I glued each color post-it in vertical rows. This 3-D collage is designed so looking from the right side are rows of the darker colors and from the left are the light ones. I hope it reminds him of the great accomplishment in passing his test.

1900's Scenic Locket Necklace

2008-07-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

This an antique Victorian locket is etched with a scenic design and intricate metal work that attaches to the bale. The necklaces is a new 14k gold filled chain accented with 12k gold plated vintage Swarovski crystals.

Victorian is designation given to the period from approximately 1837, when Victoria became Queen of England, until 1901, when she died. This long period is divided into early (approx. 1840-1860), mid (approx. 1860-1880) and late (approx. 1880-1900), since it covers a wide span of time and a number of distinctive trends. This period was preceded by the Georgian period, and succeeded by the Edwardian period after Victoria died in 1901, and her son Edward became king.

Vintage Mother of Pearl Dove Pendant Necklace

2008-07-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

I created this necklace with found vintage components. The pendant is a mother of pearl dove that hands on a vintage brass bar link double strand chain with a rare, pink flower clasp. The dove symbolizes the soul and the Holy Spirit. It signifies peace, gentleness and purity. In armory, the dove signifies loving constancy and peace.

1900's Jeweled Basket Weave Locket Necklace

2008-07-18T10:58:00.000-07:00

1900's antique, Victorian Edwardian gold filled locket with a unique basket weave and jeweled design. The necklace is a new 14k gold filled chain with vintage clear crystal beads that accent the stones on the locket, and my signature cloisonne bead at the clasp.

Edwardian refers to the period during the reign of Edward VII of England, but the style has it's beginnings during the final years of Victoria's reign, and continued until shortly before World War I when the more geometric influences later to be called Art Deco began to make headway. In jewelry, this period was characterized by delicate filigree in white gold and platinum with diamonds and pearls predominating, and colored stones used less frequently, producing a light, monochromatic look. Inside is an old photo of a special little girl that someone wore close to their heart.

1895 Art Nouveau Bird Locket Necklace

2008-07-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

1895 Art Nouveau, gold filled locket is etched with a green stone in the center of a flower and a bird. Birds signify things of the intellect, understanding thoughts, ideas, reasonings, principles, consequently truths or falsity. The necklace is a new 14k gold filled chain, accented with vintage Swarovski green crystals, and my signature cloisonne bead at the clasp.

A New Rehab

2008-06-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

This is an antique 1800's gold filled ornate Art Nouveau locket with crystal gems around an opal stone. I recently found this locket at an estate sale and rehabed it. Now, it hangs on a 14k gold filled chain accented with mother of pearl beads. Keep checking my etsy store for new items.

Custom Jewelry Design

2008-05-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is a custom order I just finished rehabing. The buddha pendant and tigers eye stone once hung on a cheap chain with an unsecured clasp. I made a new double chain necklace with a vintage gold filed chain and wire wrapped garnet beads to accent the pendant. My customer loves it and wants me to fix up more of her jewelry.

Do you have a family heirloom, sentimental charm, or some other jewels laying around that you want to wear again or give to someone special. I will custom design a piece for you. Please contact me if you are interested and check out my Etsy store to see my other handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry designs at vintagerehab.etsy.com!

Mother's Day SALE: 15% off Vintage Locket Necklaces

2008-05-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner. A locket is not merely a piece of jewelry, but and heirloom, a keepsake, and a constant reminder of your loved ones. Last year, my siblings and I gave my mom a locket necklace for Mother's Day, and put photos of us inside. It is very sentimental to her and will likely be passed onto generations to come.

Since then, I started collecting vintage lockets and reworking them into one-of-a-kind necklaces. I hope you find the perfect Mother's Day gift. All heart lockets are 15% off until May 11th. Please check out my shop: vintagerehab.etsy.com!

Happy Earth Day - Recycled Gift Wrapping

2008-04-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

I admit that I have a few strange habits one being collecting random things that I might later use somehow. My stash came in handy when I was wrapping a present. I made a box out of cardboard, covered it with a wallpaper sample, and tied a lonely ribbon around it.

A New Treasure for Rehab

2008-04-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

This is a 1895-1935 Art Nouveau gold filled locket that I just bought from an antique dealer. It is in perfect condition and has a unique shape unlike any of the lockets I have found. Here is what it looks like before I rehab it. I am going to add a beautiful gold filled chain, that looks antique and pairs well with the old locket, and clear vintage crystal beads to accent the center stone. Keep checking my store for new items vintagerehab.etsy.com!

Lockets Like They Used to Make 'Em. Literally.

2008-04-13T12:09:00.001-07:00

"As much as I don't love most keepsake jewelry, I absolutely adore vintage lockets. And if I miss anything about my younger, baby-less days it's the time I used to have to comb flea markets and tag sales for ye olde time-y jewelry on the weekends.

Hooray for Stacey Samuels who now does it for me. Her company, Vintage Rehab, tracks down the most beautiful lockets, then fixes them up, adds fantastic chains and clasps, and turns them from someone's castoff into your own very fortunate find. Check out her shop and you'll find goodies from a deco-era double heart necklace, to a 60's tortoise shell piece to really exquisite cloisonne flower lockets.

They are not cheap - prices range from about $130 to three times that. An of course they're all one-of-a-kind. So if you've got one in mind for a special mama this mother's day, grab it now. It's not likely to end up in a flea market again any time soon." - Liz (coolmompicks.com)

1940's Raised Heart Locket Necklace

2008-04-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

This vintage heart locket is vermeils, sterling silver, plated with 12k gold, circa 1940's. It has a unique engraved floral design around a raised silver heart. The necklace is a new 14k gold filled chain accented with sterling silver, square beads.

The heart has long been used as a symbol to refer to the spiritual, emotional, moral, and in the past also intellectual core of human being. As the heart was once widely believed to be the seat of the human mind, the word heart continues to be used poetically to refer to the soul, and stylized depictions of hearts are extremely prevalent symbols of representing love.

1900's Slider Locket Necklace

2008-04-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

This antique locket from the 1900's uniquely slides open and holds two photos. The necklace is created with limited stock, vintage gold filled chain, and accented with 12k gold plated Swarovski crystals that are both no longer manufactured. The locket necklace is handmade with love.

Please check out my etsy store to see my other 0ne-of-a-kind designs at vintagerehab.etsy.com!

1950's Coro Four Picture Locket Necklace

2008-04-02T11:30:00.001-07:00

This is a Coro gold tone locket that springs open with three hinges, unfolding four photo frames. Coro marketed this locket in the 1950's as the "Family Album Locket." The following slogan was used: "Just picture the pleasure of wearing such a treasure." The necklace is made with vintage chain, that is no longer manufactured, woven with tan leather, and accented with a light blue crystal antique tie pin that functions as the clasp.

Vintage Crystal Layering Necklace

2008-03-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

I design one-of-a-kind necklaces from chain, beads and component parts that was manufactured for CHANEL in the 1970's and 1980's. This piece is created with three unique chains that are linked together with old chandelier crystals. It can be worn long, doubled, or tripled around the neck and layered with one of my locket necklaces for many different looks. Check out my shop to see all of my jewelry, vintagerehab.etsy.com! Each one is handmade with love.

1960's Amethyst Heart Locket Necklace

2008-03-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

This is a 1960's amethyst and 14k gold filled, etched heart locket on a new 14k gold filled chain with vintage Swarovksi purple crystals.

Amethysts are generally worn to make the wearer have an air of gentleness and amiability. Similarly, amethysts are still commonly believed to hold powers over dreams, peace, healing, love, courage, spiritual uplifting, psychism, protection against thieves, and general overall happiness.

Vintage 'J' Locket Necklace

2008-03-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

This is an vintage gold filled, oval locket engraved with a 'J'. The necklace is a four strand, rare vintage chain with an antique slide, and the clasp is part of an antique watch chain that hooks into a vintage heart charm.

This is a one-of-a-kind necklace that can not be reproduced since the materials are no longer made. I reclaimed the chain from old vintage stock. The clasp is part of an antique watch chain I scored at an estate sale, and the slide and heart charm are rare finds.

Vintage Blue Cloisonne Locket Necklace

2008-03-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

This vintage cloisonne locket hangs from a very rare, 12k rolled gold plated watch chain with a unique clasp. At one time, the swivel at the end of the chain held a watch.

Blue flowers hold a special significance in the language of flowers. They offer a cooling antidote to our over-stimulated lives and anxious days. A color that is known to hold universal appeal, blue plays a significant role in many cultures' religious rituals and ceremonies. It is said that the Western tradition of a bride wearing something blue is tied to the color's symbolism of faithfulness and loyalty. In its dark, regal tones, blue can express trustworthiness, confidence, intelligence and unity, which explains why it's frequently the color of police uniforms, why the blue "power suit" is an icon of the business world and why winners of competitions receive blue ribbons. And yet, in its softer hues, blue can embody the uplifting spirit of a sunny sky or soothing ocean- perhaps explaining why so many of us choose blue flowers when we want to send a message of calming beauty, tranquility and peace.

1800s Hair Locket Necklace

2008-03-06T10:08:00.000-08:00

1800's oval, rose gold filled locket hangs form a gold and seed pearl ornament. Necklace is a vintage gold filled watch chain with a rare heart slide with an opal stone. Inside the locket is a lock of hair from a loved one that someone held close to their heart. The fashion of wearing a locket actually predates the invention of photography in 1839. Early lockets were made to protect treasured keepsakes like a lock of hair from a loved one, hence the name locket.

Hair art was common throughout the Victorian era. It was used for a variety of functions from recording family history to tokens of affection exchanged between lovers. Naturally, hair art also became popular means to memorialize loved ones who had passed on. Mourning jewelry created with hair was intensely popular because it did not violate the strict code of conduct Victorian society imposed upon the conduct and dress of grieving persons. Now, hair art and hair jewelry is a collectible that may be worth a lot of money.

1800's Egyptian Revival Heart Locket Necklace

2008-03-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

This is an Egyptian Revival locket with a Nouveau etched design from the 1800's. Some historians argue that the heart shape originated with the Egyptian concept of the ab, "the heart...the source of good and evil within a person, the moral awareness and centre of thought that could leave the body at will, and live with the gods after death, or be eaten by Ammut as the final death if failed to weigh equally.

A Locket for Wealth and Long Life

2008-03-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

1960's gold filled, vintage locket with tortoise shell face hangs on a long vintage gold chain, that can be layered and worn many ways. The tortoise shell symbolism dates back to ancient times when the Chinese used the shell for divination. It represents wealth and long life.

Vintage Yellow Rose Cloisonne Locket Necklace

2008-03-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

This is a beautiful vintage cloisonne locket with a garden scene on milk white background. It hangs on a vintage, double stranded, brass chain, woven with brown leather that attaches a vintage bead and old charm. The yellow rose symbolizes joy, gladness, and friendship. The butterfly's metamorphosis from a caterpillar and emergence from it's chrysalis symbolize rebirth and resurrection. To the Chinese and Japanese the butterfly is a sign of both immortality and joy. In Chinese are, butterflies combined with plum blossoms symbolize long life.

My First Sale!

2008-02-29T20:43:00.000-08:00

My first sale is still a hazy dream come true. This summer I began hunting for abandoned treasures, including antique lockets, old vintage Chanel chain, rare charms, chandelier crystals, watch chains and other resurrected finds. I reworked them into one-of-a-kind necklaces and charm bracelets.

One day one of my boyfriend's friends came over to our place to say hi. She is a buyer for a retail chain store, Tyler's. I showed her my designs and she insisted on buying this one. It can be worn as a bracelet or necklace that wraps around twice. At the time I was still working on my Etsy store and had not finished photographing or pricing my pieces. I was so thrilled that she love it so much that I gladly sold it to her.

Soon after I launched my etsy store called Vintage Rehab, www.vintagerehab.etsy.com. I sold 6 items in the first month!

Vintage Oriental Cloisonne Locket Necklace

2008-02-29T20:28:00.000-08:00

This is a true Oriental cloisonne antique locket. American and Continentals read from left to right, while other Ethnic cultures read from right to left. This locket opens from the left side, which is the opposite of most lockets. It hangs on a long vintage gold tone chain with a rare vintage flower clasp. The necklace can be worn multiple ways by wrapping the chain around two or three times.

Engagement Present

2008-02-29T20:16:00.000-08:00

Lockets are fascinating because they tell a story. When you open the hinges of an old locket for the first time, a mystery is waiting to be discovered! This is one of my favorite lockets that I reclaimed and added a chain accented with vintage gray crystals. Inside are the original photos of a woman's husband and son who she must have loved dearly. More so, it is special to me because a gentleman bought this necklace for his fiance as an engagement present.

Inside a Vintage Lockets

2008-02-14T19:19:00.000-08:00

I reclaim vintage lockets and rework them into one-of-a-kind necklaces. Some of the lockets have the original photos inside. I imagine who wore it and the meaning of the photos inside. Not only are they all unique, but they each tell a story. Check out all of the lockets at www. vintagerehab.etsy.com!

Custom Toy Box

2008-02-14T16:03:00.000-08:00

I love to design furniture and want to show off a toy box I made to match a little boys room. If you are interested in ordering a custom designed toy box, please contact me. Handmade with love by Stacey Samuels.

Vintage Rehab Press Release

2008-01-28T17:19:00.000-08:00

Vintage Rehab by Stacey Samuels

Fashion Jewelry Designer Breaks Ground on a Fresh Concept…

Vintage Rehab announced today that it has released the first of many rehab vintage jewelry designs by designer Stacey Samuels. Vintage Rehab is creating a tradition of providing life and rejuvenation to heirloom pieces, transforming them into modern every day wearables. Stacey Samuels, an accomplished Interior Furniture Designer and experienced Marketing Veteran, started her jewelry business as an Estate Sale addict.

“I was looking for my niche within the custom jewelry business, so I began to attend estate sales and auctions. One thing that I noticed was that estate jewelry had lots of personality but there was something missing. Each piece I purchased seemed to scream out at me… please fix me up and give me life! So I did just that. Each piece I have created has great history, presence and has a distinctive heirloom quality. I give it even more life by choosing only the great pieces and doing a lot of work giving it layers and using only the highest quality resources.”

Vintage Rehab products are currently available online at www.vintagerehab,etsy.com, an online handmade retail portal. Stacey plans to release a new website soon dedicated to Vintage Rehab designs with additional plans to expand her product line from vintage locket necklaces to layered necklaces and vintage charm bracelets (that convert to a layered necklace on the fly).