Before the introduction of Vuitton’s trunks, rounded-top trunks were used, and hus could not be stacked. It was Vuitton’s trunk that made it easy to stack them on top of one another for secure, locked storage while on voyages.
NW jewelry designer Renee Hafeman finds shoe cases, keys, and truck keys to create her one-of-a-kind LOCKET necklaces.
The Louis Vuitton label was founded in Paris by Vuitton. Louis Vuitton had observed that the osline traveling trunk could be easily stacked. In 1858, Vuitton introduced his flat-topped trunks with custom locks, making them lightweight and airtight.
Fast forward to today, Louis Vuiton locks are a converted design feature, and jewelry designer Renee Hafman creates vintage necklaces from vintage locks.
Jewelry designer Renee Hafeman finds classic Gucci elements, including the most recognizable lines and the signature double G logo.
About the Gucci link to love: A modern collection exploring geometric forms and “symbols of love.”
Fun Fact. Gucci emphasizes ethical production, focusing on reducing environmental impact and using responsibly certified materials. Jewelry, including vintage pieces, is made in Italy, maintaining traditional manufacturing standards.
And, too, presenting Renee Hafeman’s Alice Caviness vintage jewelry. Classic Mid-Century Design. One-of-a-Kind. Coming into the Fairweather Gallery on May 2 for the opening reception of the Seaside First Saturday Art Walk, 5-75–7 pm with LIVE music by Seaside singer Jason Lambert.
Alice Caviness Jewelry Company has been making jewelry since 1943 and is centered in the era of Chanel and Schiaparelli.
Caviness jewelry marks consist of the brand name “ALICE CAVINESS” or the letters “A.C.” placed in an oval cartouche or stamped into the metal of the piece.
Growing up, my grandmother would pull out her jewelry box, take each piece out one by one, and explain in detail what it was, where it came from, and why it was so special to her. This developed my love of antique and vintage jewelry.
I started to think of how many treasured pieces are sitting in drawers and jewelry boxes, many handed down, some outdated, some broken, and others just put away because they didn’t match anything you wore. I decided enough of that! Let’s dig out those pieces and give them new life.
I have always loved different shapes and colors of objects since I was a child. I remember drawing them in mid-air with my fingers, I remember pointing them out to my mom and dad, and they always drew my attention. When I am searching for a piece to design into a necklace, my eyes are drawn to geometric and abstract modern shapes.
You will find many of my designs are Modernist and Mid-Century. These eras began in the 1940’s. During that time, some of the most famous and innovative jewelry designs were created by the design houses of Dior, Chanel, and Vuitton. It was a time of streamlined design, curves, futuristic impressions, creative artistry, and modernism. The jewelry supplies at that time marked the introduction of innovative materials never used before, such as silver, brass, copper, and precious stones, that fit the raw, simplistic design. Vintage jewelry designer, Renee Hafeman
As you can see in the most recent close-ups of my one-of-a-kind vintage creations, you will find beautiful shapes that draw the human eye because they are uncommon and rare from Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and Caviness.
Renee Hafeman, jewelry designer
Celebrating 22 years in 2026, Seaside, the First Saturday Art Walk is a free event in downtown Seaside—courtesy parking at Holladay & Oceanway. Meet artists, see art, and hear live music:
May 2 5:00 to 7:07:00 pm
Fairweather House and Gallery
612 Broadway Street
In the Historic Gilbert District of downtown Seaside
PRESENTING vintage jewelry designer Renee Hafeman’s latest creations featuring hallmarked mid-century necklaces with pieces by Gucci, Doir, and Canviness. In addition, she highlighted her coveted Chanel logo necklaces. Renee Hafeman will be in attendance for the May Art Walk.
Also, WELCOMING, a debut exhibition featuring artist Jeanne Cuddeford, whose original work is representational and impressionistic oils on linen canvas. A native Oregonian, she paints the spring season and its temperaments, creating art that serves as a perceptual window for this show.
