How to Make a Pendant Into a Brooch

A brooch is a versatile accessory that can be pinned anywhere.

When the chain holding a pendant breaks or wears out, save the pendant by turning it into a brooch. This can be worn on a scarf or jacket, but it can also be pinned to a hat or bag to add a formal touch to these casual accessories. A homemade brooch is also a way to preserve a valuable heirloom and still use it as a piece of jewelry. A necessary tool for converting pendants to brooches is a pin. These come in a variety of styles so, before beginning your pendant-to-brooch conversion, decide how you want the pendant to hang. For example, a flat-backed horizontal or vertical pin is glued to the back of a pendant, while a bar pin threads through the loop where the chain used to be. The gluing method is best for a large pendant with a flat back.

Things You'll Need

• Horizontal or vertical pin back
• Instant glue, such as Super Glue
• Small paintbrush
• Pliers
• Cloth
• Bar pin

Instructions

1. Remove the pendant from the chain.

2. Lay a clean cloth on a flat surface. This will be a resting place for your pendant while you are waiting for the glue to dry. The cloth will protect the gems or images in the front of the pendant.

3. Close the pin back and paint glue on the back of the pin back using a small paintbrush. The paintbrush will allow you to apply the glue with precision and help prevent excess glue leaking from around the pin.

4. Grasp the pin piece with the pliers on its closed arm, so the glue-covered side is free. Lay the pendant face down on a flat surface while you press the glued side of the pin into the back of the pendant. Where you press the pin will depend on how you want the brooch to hang; but, just below where the pendant had hung from the chain is a good spot. This will support the brooch's weight. If the pin is glued too low, the weight on top will cause the brooch to tilt forward.

5. Press the pin and brooch together. Hold the two together for about five minutes. Lay the brooch down with the jewel resting on the cloth. Let the glue dry completely for 24 hours before wearing the brooch.

6. Pin your new brooch to your lapel or scarf.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have an antique pendant of value, seek the help of a professional jeweler before using glue. The chemicals in some glues may damage the integrity of valuable gems.

References

• Thrifty Fun: Recylced Jewelry Brooch
• Vintage Jewelry Lane: Jewelry Repair