Jewelry Repair

Laser, Solder & Other Metal Repairs
(metal breaks, broken pin stems, broken/missing parts etc)

Question

I have this beautiful brooch that has several breaks in the long flower stems. What can I do? Anything? (there are 3 separations on the stems - the bottom stem is most noticeable in the above picture). Linda Lombardo

Suggestions

This could be repaired using lead solder. Depending on the metal color, the repair would probably show. The joint wouldn't be strong, but since there wouldn't be much stress on the broken areas, this might not matter. Carol Hearn

Question

On this Georgian ring "there is a piece missing, decorative from the side of the ring shank. Should I have this piece re-made and re applied take the piece off Or just forget about it" ? Manon Kavesky

Suggestions

Any good jeweler/designer who does lost wax casting could make an open face (so as not to remove it from the ring) mold of the existing section and cast a replacement. Looks like it is bilaterally symmetric, and this option would work. I happen to love the ring as it is, but this is an option. Cat

If it's for your personal wear, it's your choice, of course. If you were to sell it, I'm sure this would detract from the price. And finding the correct repair person at an affordable cost might prove difficult. Personally, I would not get it replaced -- I like jewels that show they have a checkered past! Anne (the beady eye)

The broken section should be removed, used to make the cast of a whole sheath, & 2 complete pieces made to be applied so they both match exactly. It can be done, but it is not cost effective unless the ring is of great value, money or sentimental wise. Linda Wisler

Question

Can laser repair be done on a gold ring with a lapis stone. My sister has a ring that needs repair on the band and she said her local jeweler (who does not do laser) said soldering the gold would damage the stone. Linda in Cleveland

Suggestions

It is not harmful to the stones since there is no heat. Lead soldering will ruin stones and they must be removed before the soldering is done. There is no ugly evidence of repairs with laser welding as there is with lead soldering. Kay Heino

Contacts for Professional Solder or Laser Repair Work:

Victor Weyrich
Gem Products & Jewelry Repair - Phone: 602-908-0475