Vintage Costume Jewelry Repair Tips

Costume jewelry was not made to last forever and so often times you will have a piece that has lost a stone or brilliance or perhaps the enamel needs touched up or a broken pin back needs replaced. Simple repairs are expected to be found in vintage costume jewelry. These kinds of repairs do not decrease the value but rather enhance it. The key is to repair the piece correctly using the proper techniques and materials.

Eclectic Vintage belongs to several jewelry discussion groups where repairs are often discussed. Read what our members recommend for simple jewelry repairs.

The #1 recommended glue to use for rhinestone replacement is Hypo Cement used by professional jewelers and watch makers. It has a precision applicator for those tiny rhinestone cups.

Another must have tool is a professional jewelers 10x loupe

The best tool for cleaning out old glue and foil residue in rhinestone cups is a dental pic. These can be found at your local flea markets or online.

Super glue is not recommended for repairs or stone replacements. An experienced eye will easily see an over sized stone or a new stone when it should be old, and sloppy enamel touch ups are worse than leaving the chipped enamel as is.

Know what material it is you are working with. The handy guide "What's It Made Of" will teach you how to test for certain materials and identify them accurately.

When it comes to repairs one other thing to consider is that some collectors prefer that its age remain visible. In their eyes it gives the piece character. Vintage sterling silver jewelry with that wonderful patina is often more desirable than a bright and polished up piece.