So many of us have one: a small, velvet-lined box holding a piece of family history. It’s full of sentiment, but it’s not quite your style, so it sits unworn. What if you could transform that dormant treasure into a stunning, wearable piece that perfectly captures both its legacy and your personality?

In this episode, Ranger sits down with Jen Hancox, a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional and the founder of The Edna Collective in Burlingame. Jen shares her unique journey from the high-stakes world of fine dining to the intricate art of fine jewelry. She demystifies the custom design process, explaining how redesigning an heirloom is often more accessible and meaningful than buying off the shelf. Listen in for a masterclass in how to honor the past while creating something beautiful for your present, the importance of independent appraisals, and why the most valuable jewelry is the jewelry that gets worn.

About Our Guest: Jen Hancox

Jen Hancox is the Chief Designer and Appraiser at The Edna Collective, a custom jewelry studio based in Burlingame, CA. After a long and successful career in high-end restaurant management, Jen pivoted to her passion, becoming a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional. She specializes in breathing new life into family heirlooms, creating bespoke pieces from scratch, and providing independent, conflict-of-interest-free appraisals. Jen is also an active member of the Peninsula community, serving on the board of the San Mateo Chamber of Commerce and volunteering at the Central Park Arboretum.

Episode Highlights & Key Topics:

• [03:26] The "Tailoring" Analogy: Jen explains custom jewelry design with a brilliant and simple analogy that makes it instantly relatable.
• [05:41] From Fine Dining to Fine Jewelry: Jen shares her fascinating career pivot and how the high-touch skills from the restaurant world translate perfectly to serving jewelry clients.
• [11:19] Overcoming the "Heirloom Stigma": A powerful discussion on why redesigning a family piece isn't erasing history, but rather honoring it by making it wearable for a new generation.
• [16:36] A Real-Life Redesign Challenge: Jen walks through a story of navigating a family disagreement to create a beautiful piece, showcasing how her work is as much about people as it is about jewelry.
• [17:36] The Truth About Appraisals & Value: Learn the difference between replacement value and fair market value, and why getting an appraisal from someone who isn't trying to buy your jewelry is crucial for an honest assessment.
• [20:28] The Biggest Misconception: Jen addresses the number one thing that prevents people from starting a custom project: the fear of price—and explains why it’s more accessible than you think.

Connect with Our Guest & Host

Find Jen Hancox & The Edna Collective:

• Website: TheEdnaCollective.com
• Services: Custom Jewelry Design, Heirloom Redesign, Jewelry Appraisals, Engagement Rings.
• Social Media: Find The Edna Collective on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.

Connect with the South of SF Podcast:

• Host: Ranger Kielak
• How to Support: If you know someone staring at an old jewelry box, share this episode with them! Subscribe for more conversations with the trusted experts and neighbors who make the Peninsula special.