Common Repair Questions
The jewelry repair world can be extremely fascinating or it can be totally confusing. Following is a sample of some of the most common jewelry questions and problems with explanations for each. This only scratches the surface and every piece is unique so we recommend bringing or sending the item for a complete evaluation.
Our bodies change and it is necessary to sometimes size our rings. This process involves either adding a piece of metal or removing a piece of metal depending on the direction the size has to go. When we size a ring we do the following:
A) Size the ring
B) Check the center and accent stones for tightness and if any are loose we will tighten them.
C) Rhodium plate white gold rings to give them a "platinum" like coating thus making them whiter.
D) Identify any additional problems that may need to be addressed
How do
you protect stones from heat when you size a ring?
Most stones in rings do not react well to the heating when a ring
is sized. In some cases we can submerge the stone in water for protection.
sometimes it is necessary to remove the stones from the ring, size the ring
and then reset the stones back into the mounting. Because of the added
expense we try to avoid this when we can.
We do not "stretch" rings larger because this will cause the band to become
thin and lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
My knuckle is larger
than my finger and my ring spins. Can you do anything about this?
A common problem that has many
cures. The simplest procedure is to add "sizing beads" to the inside of the
ring band. These beads tend to grab the fleshy part of the finger and help
keep the ring in an upright position. however if there is a large size
difference between the knuckle and the finger it may be necessary to add an
arthritic ring band to solve the problem.
When worn for long periods of time the prongs on a ring will wear and it is necessary to repair or replace them in order to keep the stones secu
re. Re-tipping or replacement is determined by
the condition of the piece and the type of stones involved.Re-tip: when a prong is worn but there is still a small amount left over the stone, it is possible to flow solder on the top of the left over prong to build it back up. Because of the high heat involved it can safely be done on diamond and with some confidence on ruby and sapphire. If a ring has been re-tipped once we will usually recommend a new prong setting the second time around.
Replace Prongs: when a prong is missing it is necessary to replace the entire prong. In an assembled piece this is done by removing the entire prong setting
and replacing it with a new one. When an item is a single cast
piece individual prongs can be replaced by cutting the existing prongs back
and welding new metal on top. We will make recommendations based on the
size, shape, type etc. of the stone or stones involved. Keep in mind that
the prongs take the most punishment so it is wise to make sure this part of
the ring is kept in the best condition.
Our most common repair and the one with the most controversy. Usually when a chain breaks the repair is simple and long lasting. However in some cases it gets a little complicated. When done properly the item being repaired is usually as good as new at the spot it was repaired while an improper repair will break in the same spot.
Simple chain repair: Small break in chains, jump rings, etc. are simple and should last a good amount of time
Intricate chain repair: Breaks in rope, snake, wheat chains and wider pieces, more complicated but should wear well
Complicated chain repair: A break or breaks where other areas may come apart, usually areas adjoining the repaired area will break next.
Difficult: Possibility of harming stones, multiple weld spots involved, the "best" jeweler must to this work.
True, any jeweler can repair a piece of jewelry but an experienced jeweler will be able to perform the work in such a manner that it should extend the life of the item itself. When it comes to repair make sure you deal with a company you know and trust.