Do you have a box of dusty old jewellery that has not seen the light of day in years? Perhaps it is time you give them a fresh breath of life and reset them into chic trendy peices.

We speak to Private Jeweller, Mr Vinod More of The Jewel Box to tell us more about the service.

Is it easy to reset old jewellery into new pieces?
Simply put, it's salvaging whatever that can be re-used out of old pieces which may not be wearable. The Jewel Box has the expertise to repair and restore old jewellery so that they can continue being worn. Our restoration services include resetting - the art of re-using the gems in an outmoded piece of jewellery to re-create a fresh expression; or, handcrafting an entirely new creation. The precious metal content also can be scrapped and cashed in.

Is it common for your customers to bring older pieces of jewellery to be remade into new pieces?
Yes, it is common for us because we happily provide the service. Most of these customers are looking to re-create their keep-sakes. We have a network of very experienced master jewellers and craftsmen.

What are some of the precautions you have to undertake when accepting these old pieces? Do you get the client to sign a document just in case they change their minds?
Typically, there is sentimental value to such pieces thus we have to be very sensitive with our proposals and the handling. More than the risk of financial loss, it's the emotional attachment that cannot be replaced. We clearly explain the risks to clients and they have to sign the indemnity printed in our order forms.

What are some of the more unusual requests you have recieved from your customers?
Incorporate part of an existing piece in original form into a new piece. For example, we had a client who wanted to cut up a ring and set the pieces into a pair of cufflinks.

Is the whole process done locally?
Designs are first done here in Singapore, followed by production in Hong Kong.

Does the client normally have an idea of what they want to do with their old pieces or do you normally propose how it can be redesigned?
We get both sets of clients. The journey of jewellery re-designing is very personal; our designers work side-by-side each step along the way with the client from choosing the design to selecting the stones, and its final setting. Sketches are made, revised and refined until a sparkle in the eyes tells us the client's heart has found that which it desires.

What has been the feedback of past customers who have done this with The Jewel Box?
Kudos and 3 cheers.

Are you able to share with us any "before" and "after" photos of some pieces you have worked on?
We do not share images of clients' orders. It is a private affair.

The Jewel Box
1 Scotts Road, #25-04 Shaw Centre
Singapore 228208, +65 6733 4100
www.thejewelbox.com