Even the most durable metals and stones used in jewelry can be delicate. If your prized jewelry is not properly cleaned, maintained, and cared for, it may become tarnished, cracked, or chipped. Even diamonds, which are said to last eternally, cannot be considered invincible.
That’s why it’s crucial for your bling’s longevity to get them checked by an expert. Some Avon jewelry stores may help you with this, but if unsure, you can scan your jewelry pieces yourself to know if they need to be repaired. With the help of the checklist below, you’ll be able to recognize both evident and subtle signs that your jewelry requires repair services.
Signs Your Jewelry Is In Need of Repair
- If you have gemstones in your jewelry, you should scrutinize the prongs.
- To ensure the stone/stones are secure, gently touch the tip of the stone/stones.
- When looking at rings, look for signs of wear and damage on the shank (the part closest to your palm).
- Examine chains and bracelets for broken links.
- Check the clasps to make sure they close securely.
- Keep an eye out for discoloration, which could indicate a loss of metal strength.
This procedure is simple and quick and can help protect your jewelry from costly repairs.
5 Most Common Jewelry Damages That Jewelers Can Fix
1. Resizing a Ring
Ring sizing is one of the most sought-after and easy jewelry repairs. It is one of the most frequent quick jewelry repairs that jewelers perform almost every day. Your jeweler will measure your fingers and ensure that the ring is perfectly sized. If necessary, ring sizes can be modified to fit your fingers. Ring adjustments depend on whether you want it to be bigger or smaller in size. If the ring is too tight, jewelers will open up the shank and add the metal to make it bigger. They’ll remove the extra part and then join the metal together if it’s loose.
2. Repairing a Prong
Constantly wearing rings can make your prongs sensitive, increasing the risk of damaging gemstones or even losing the precious stone altogether. You can repair prongs to make them match their dimensions, size, and shape. To prevent prongs from catching on clothing, they should be fully covered by the crown of your stone. A skilled jeweler will repair, retip, or replace the prong depending on the extent of the damage. An experienced jeweler should handle this adjustment because it is difficult to attach a stone, especially if you don’t have the proper training, skill, and tool to get it done.
3. Ring Head Replacement and Repair
The ring’s head can be easily damaged by everyday abrasions caused by contact with other surfaces, especially if the head is big. This can weaken the prongs and even cause damage to the gem. A jeweler may recommend complete ring restorations or jewelry modifications to ensure the ring remains intact. If the head cannot be removed, the jeweler will discuss replacement options. You can have a head made exactly as your original design. Either you want the exact same head as the original or something entirely different. After the stone has been inserted into the head, the ring will be polished and cleaned.
4. Repair of Chains
A chain will not be as strong after repair as it was before it was damaged. Flat chain repairs can be almost invisible. However, if the chain is severely damaged, wearing it again may cause tension. Because of their complexities, link chains like cable, rope, and herringbone chains are more difficult to repair. Some jewelers may charge a fee for these quick jewelry repairs. This type of jewelry damage is usually visible to the naked eye. It’s either the chain or the clasp will break. Local jewelry repair shops will repair any damage to the chain with the same type of metal. Then, by removing the old clasp, replace the broken one.
5. Repairing Loose Gemstones
Over time, a gemstone can become loose and start to spin or bounce back and forth. This can happen if your jewelry is struck or taken a hit, requiring the need for immediate jewelry repairs. Do not wear a loose gemstone as the precious stone may fall out.
To return the metal to its original position, your local jewelry repair shop will use tools specially designed for jewelry alterations. It ensures that the gemstone is seated correctly and the prongs are tightly attached. You may only need to tighten the prongs when you have a loose gemstone.
How to Keep Your Jewelry in Good Condition
Jewelry is made to be worn and should be worn confidently. However, wearing them often can potentially damage them. It will happen that your jewelry becomes less wearable, falls off, or breaks. You can wear your jewelry as often as you like, but it is more likely to become damaged, leading to repairs.
You can slow this down with a couple of simple preventative measures.
- Keep your jewelry from getting wet. This can result in cracks, fading, and water stains.
- Chemicals should be avoided. Hairspray, perfumes, and lotions contain harmful chemicals. Keep these away from your jewelry.
- Use your jewelry alternately. You should not wear the same jewelry every day. If it is worn too frequently, it will become less durable.
- Remember to remove them, especially before going to bed.
Key Takeaway
How much you love and admire a cherished ring or necklace doesn’t matter. You must remove them whenever you engage in activities that increase the risk of damage or loss. To reduce any risk to your jewelry, avoid going on trips to the beach, hiking, or playing sports while wearing them.
Everyone wants their jewelry to last as long as possible. Understanding the signs that your jewelry needs to be repaired allows you to preserve your mementos and avoid problems.
