Heirlooms: Chosen Names and Pearl Necklaces

Fall always makes me nostalgic. As a teacher, school starting makes me smile. My October birthday causes me to remember. But since I became a mom in October, that date makes me even more reflective this time of year.

When we chose names for our four children, we were deliberate in our selections. The first and middle names of our children correlate to some aspect our lives that connects with faith, our family or our experiences. While we were the ones writing on the birth certificates, I would like to think that these names were ordained. These intentional names will provide a sort of heirloom for our children.

The same was true when my parents picked my name. Because Gretchen is uncommon, I did not always appreciate their choice. Then I found out that Gretchen means “precious pearl.” As someone who has struggled with insecurity at times, being reminded that I am precious to God and to my family means so much to me.

Ever since that realization, I have appreciated pearl jewelry. Although I have cultured pearl earrings, other authentic pearl jewelry was out of reach. Then I was introduced to Aurate jewelry. Now I finally have a beautiful pearl necklace to go along with my earrings.

As the Aurate website notes, this jewelry is born and raised in New York City. With a lifetime guarantee, the jewelry options include everything from nicer chains to higher end rings and necklaces. Not only is the quality consistent, but an assortment of selections is offered for a wide variety of budgets. Custom creations can be crafted. Even selections for men are available. During this season of gift giving, please take a look at the Aurate website to select a meaningful piece or two for someone you love.

While I know that I will love to wear my new necklace, I am also grateful that I can pass the necklace along to my daughter or even a future granddaughter someday. In one of my favorite Nebraska novels, A Lantern in Her Hand, Abbie Deal passes along her pearls to her granddaughter for her wedding. Maybe my pearl necklace will someday be worn at just such an occasion.

A long time ago, I was given a name plaque by my parents designating the meaning of my name along with Psalm 139:14. I am hoping to include that framed reminder with the artwork that I hope to finally hang in my office. Maybe someday I will offer this same typed of framed gift to my children, provided that I can pick one that matches their style.

Do you know why your name was chosen? If you are a parent, how did you pick names for your children? Did you consult a names website? (I must confess that we looked in paperbacks as online resources were rather limited back when we became parents!) Besides giving your children strong names, what type of heirlooms do you have for them someday? If you need ideas, Etsy has a world of possibilities!

P.S. This is one last glimpse of my beautiful pearl necklace along with the list of Aurate jewelry guarantees.

Note: This is a Responsival sponsored post, but none of the links are affiliate ones. I voluntarily participated in this promotion. All opinions are my own.