Warilla's Barbara Nolan has been left devastated after losing a box containing cherished jewellery that belonged not only to her, but her beloved late mother.
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The 83-year-old believes the box - which held a another box in the shape of an owl, plus a smaller black box - might have accidentally gotten put in the recycling bin, or taken with other donations to Shellharbour Hospital or the Baptist Church op shop in Hill Street.
After discovering the jewellery was missing, she said, she "turned the house upside down" and called the hospital, op shop and recycling centre, but no one had seen it.
The jewellery contained in the box included a gold bracelet her mother gave her on her 50th birthday, several rings, necklaces - including one with a filigree elephant - a filigree owl, and items that belonged to her mother.
Her mother, Lorna Raymond, passed away about 15 years ago.
Mrs Nolan said she got upset every time she thought about the loss of the jewellery, which held significant sentimental value.
She hopes someone might have come across the jewellery and by sharing her story, she can be reunited with it.
Anyone with information can contact the Mercury at natalie.croxon@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
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