Upcycled jewelry refers to the process of transforming broken, outdated, or unwanted jewelry into something entirely new and wearable. It’s distinct from simple recycling, where materials are melted down or refined into raw metals. Instead, upcycling retains and reimagines existing components to craft original designs that respect and extend the legacy of the piece.

The concept is far from new. Long before the term was coined in 1994 by engineer Reiner Pilz, civilizations throughout history practiced creative reuse. From patchwork quilts to mosaic tilework and carved architectural salvage, upcycling is part of how humans have long cared for the objects that matter to us.

Jenny Lin, a talented jeweler and artist on the Henne team, brings this legacy to life through each upcycled piece she creates. “I’ve always been drawn to repair and reuse,” Jenny said. “In my own jewelry practice, working from scrap often led to my favorite work.”

Her background in fiber arts and mending informs her approach, blending the tactile sensibilities of sewing with the precision of metalwork. During her BFA studies at Carnegie Mellon University, Jenny’s fascination with wearable sculpture took root—an influence you can still see in her upcycled designs today.

The materials for Jenny Lin’s designs come directly from the Henne Jewelers scrap gold program, where guests can sell broken or unwanted jewelry. Before pieces are sent to a refinery, she examines them for inspiration.

“I look for hand-engraving, unique textures, and any sign that a piece was touched by another craftsperson,” said Jenny. “I love the idea that I’m collaborating with someone from decades ago.”

From vintage brooches and loose charms to broken bands and forgotten clasps, each component carries a story. Her work gives them new life, while preserving the creative energy already invested in their original form.

No two pieces of upcycled jewelry are the same. Some take only an hour to reassemble and fabricate, while others require upwards of ten hours of creative problem solving.

Jenny’s designs range from bold statement pieces to minimalist styles, including her latest collection of lightweight threader earrings repurposed from vintage pins and charms. She’s also working on a vintage cameo design that incorporates sculptural trims for a touch of old-world charm. These one-of-a-kind creations are available to browse and purchase in-store or online through our Upcycled Jewelry by Jenny Lin collection.

When you choose an upcycled piece, you’re doing more than buying jewelry—you’re investing in sustainability, creativity, and history. You’re reducing demand for newly mined materials while celebrating the uniqueness of a piece that could never be mass-produced.

For Jenny, upcycled jewelry is a way to honor the past and reimagine it for the future. And for those who wear it, it becomes a statement of personal style and shared values.