My Gram Necklace

Years ago, I remember sitting around my parents dining room table with my parents, sister and Gram. I don't recall why we were all there together. Possibly a birthday dinner, or holiday. But my Gram had brought a special gift for both my sister and I. 

I remember feeling sad before opening the gift. My beloved Gram was in her mid nineties, and I knew, this was a gift that she wanted to give us herself. Not just something to leave to us after she passed. Although it was bittersweet, I am so thankful that this is something passed down to me in person. Because otherwise, I would not have known the story behind my treasured necklace. 

This jade and gold necklace was very special to my Gram. A friend of hers panned the gold, then designed and made the necklace himself and gave it to her as a gift. I love the intricate detail and the scene he created with the cabin and trees. I think jade was the perfect compliment to the gold, it doesn't compete with it, rather lets the details stand out. The town where I was raised was in the heart of the Gold Rush, and I love that this necklace also has that symbolism of where I am from. 

I always like to wear the necklace with a really simple outfit, usually black, so that it stands out. I typically only bring it out for special occasions because I'm terrified of losing it. But as I put it on last weekend, I thought, I should wear it more often. It is so unique and beautiful. Best of all, it reminds me so much of one of my favorite people. 

My sister also received a beautiful necklace that day. Hers is a gold pendant that Gram wore everyday. She told us the story of when my sister was little and my Gram held her, she would grab onto that necklace and say "mine."

Do you have a family heirloom or something special that has been passed down to you? What is it?

Missing you always, Gram.