Vintage Enthusiast Transforms Antique Finds into Modern Talismans

In the sophisticated world of fine jewelry, a new movement is gaining momentum: the art of the “modern talisman.” Leading this trend is Cyndi, a renowned vintage enthusiast known to the global jewelry community as @TheFabNab. For over a decade, Cyndi has mastered the delicate balance between preserving antique craftsmanship and creating functional, contemporary designs that resonate with today’s style.

Her journey, which began around 2009, illustrates a profound shift in how collectors view historical pieces. Rather than keeping heirlooms locked in a vault, Cyndi advocates for the repurposing of Edwardian and Art Deco components, turning them into daily wearable art.

The Art of the Conversion: From Stickpins to Statement Rings

Cyndi’s expertise lies in identifying the hidden potential of “forgotten” jewelry. Her early focus centered on antique stickpins—once staple accessories of the 19th and early 20th centuries. By converting these pins, often made of precious metals and rare stones, into charms and rings, she created an accessible entry point into the world of vintage fine jewelry.

This practice evolved into her acclaimed “Lucky Numbers + Talismans” capsule collection. Using original elements from the Edwardian and Art Deco periods, she constructs pieces centered around numerals that hold personal significance for the wearer. For Cyndi, these aren’t just accessories; they are symbols of destiny and good fortune, bridging the gap between historical artifacts and personal spirituality.

Recurring Motifs: Celestial Bodies and Egyptian Revival

A true vintage enthusiast often develops a signature “jewelry language.” Cyndi’s collection is defined by powerful, recurring motifs:

Celestial Imagery: Star jewels and moon-and-star designs that recall the 19th-century fascination with the cosmos.

Egyptian Revival: Winged scarabs and golden snakes that reflect the early 20th-century obsession with ancient archeology.

Symbolic Winged Forms: Representing freedom and transcendence, often set with old mine-cut diamonds in silver-topped gold.

One of her most iconic daily pieces is a Victorian-era ruby spike, originally a brooch. After converting it into a pendant, the ruby became her personal talisman for strength, courage, and loyalty. Because original Victorian spikes are exceedingly rare, Cyndi has begun adapting Art Deco pins to replicate the design, empowering a new generation of women with these historical silhouettes.

Global Sourcing: From Paris to the Trade Show Circuit

Close-up of vintage-inspired jewelry featuring celestial, winged, and serpentine motifs.

The hunt for authentic vintage pieces has taken Cyndi across the globe. Her acquisition strategy is a blend of digital networking and old-world scouting:

The European Markets: From the famous Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen in Paris to London’s Portobello Road Market, she has built deep connections with international dealers.

The American Circuit: High-end trade shows in Las Vegas, Miami, and California serve as vital hubs for sourcing rare inventory and forging industry relationships.

Digital Community: Through platforms like Instagram, she has collaborated with top-tier dealers like @IshyAntiques and @treasuresforliesel, proving that the modern jewelry trade is as much about community as it is about the gems themselves.

Why Collecting Vintage Jewelry is a Modern Investment

Transformation of an antique stickpin into a modern gold ring, illustrating jewelry repurposing.

For the discerning collector, vintage jewelry offers something mass-produced luxury cannot: a tangible record of history. Cyndi views her collection as a series of “milestones,” where each piece marks a personal victory or a significant relationship.

By repurposing pocket-watch components and brooches into pendants, the craftsmanship of the past is saved from obscurity. This sustainable approach to luxury not only preserves the work of master goldsmiths from decades ago but also ensures that each piece remains functional for a modern lifestyle.

As we move further into 2026, the allure of the talisman—a piece of jewelry that protects, motivates, and tells a story—continues to grow. For Cyndi, the goal remains unchanged: to preserve the soul of the past while ensuring it has a vibrant place in the present.