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December 19, 2008
Try a vintage necklace
Chanukah presents don't have to break the bank.
JENNIFER BOJM
The whole world has been hit in some way or another by the tsunami known as the economic crisis. Though the bulk of media attention has been centred on activities in the United States, nowhere is immune to the damage caused by it. Attention has been given to the effects of the situation on the holiday season and, in light of where many of us find ourselves at this time, the prospect of buying Chanukah gifts may be daunting. However, people everywhere are calling upon the skill of thriftiness.
The story of Chanukah tells of one tiny jug of oil that, when expected to burn for only one day, shared its light for eight. Believe it or not, there are seemingly inconsequential gift ideas that can overcome expectations in much the same way – without burning a hole in your pocket.
This Chanukah season, to find economically sound gift ideas, you don't even need to go shopping. Some can be found in your own home. One idea in particular is to make a charm necklace. From your old jewelry, you can put together a gift for a daughter, granddaughter, niece or friend.
Today's fashion trends are enthusiastic about vintage, so go through your jewelry box and find all the items that you don't wear anymore. You can use old rings, charms, and pendants. Old ornate keys can be a perfect piece to use. You can even make use of single earrings that have lost their pair.
Furthermore, as this is a Chanukah gift, you can add Magen David pendants and other Judaica. String these items onto a chain of any length. You can put one item on a chain, or you can put a few together to achieve the look of a charm necklace. You may need to remove earring hooks and replace them with simple pendant loops. You can do this yourself or have a jeweller do it for you. If you have a piece that has been in the family for generations, this is a nice way to pass it on as an heirloom. In this way, you can create a vintage, fashionable and interesting gift. It is also a present that is a sentimental memento from you to someone you love.
This sort of gift keeps in mind the spirit and message of Chanukah, which highlights how much we do have when we think we have little. Chanukah itself means "rededication," so what better time to "rededicate" from what we have. It is a time to give of ourselves and encourage lasting relationships. Economic crises can cause colossal damage. We can, however, let them be a reminder to look around, appreciate and make use of what we already have.
Jennifer Bojm is a Vancouver freelance writer.
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