subject: Protecting Your Investment With Timely Jewelry Repairs [print this page] Fine jewelry is one of the most classic expressions of love, respect and adoration between two people. From priceless family heirloom pieces to brand new, sparkling diamond engagement rings, learn how to protect this precious investment with timely jewelry repairs.
Early Detection
Even the most durable jewelry is still fairly fragile in nature. And, especially in the case of highly valuable or sentimental pieces, a loss can be heartbreaking. Thats why its so important to address the need for jewelry repairs at the very first sign. In other words, dont wait until a necklace is lost due to a weak clasp or a diamond solitaire comes loose from its setting because of a weakened prong. The impending need for jewelry repairs is not always evident to the naked or untrained eye, so if you suspect that a piece of jewelry has become worn or damaged, the wise thing to do is to take it in for inspection immediately. Do not wear this jewelry until it has undergone this inspection along with any necessary jewelry repairs.
The best way to detect the effects of long-term wear or damage to your jewelry is to conduct regular self-inspections. This consists of a simple, visual once over to check that clasps are functioning properly, prongs are intact (no loose stones) and all links are in good condition. A good habit to get into to ensure that you stick to a fairly regular self-inspection schedule is to do this every time you clean your jewelry. Staying committed to a regular cleaning schedule is also helpful as a measure of preventative maintenance, as the bodys natural oils, as well as other environmental factors, can cause discoloration and even a general weakening of certain types of metal commonly used in the creation of fine jewelry.
What to Expect
Especially when a problem is detected and addressed early on, jewelry repairs are generally very painless. Depending upon the nature of the damage, some jewelry repairs can be done on-site while you wait. Repairs that require more specialized attention may take a little longer, but this is certainly better than the alternative of losing a precious piece of jewelry. Your local jeweler is usually the best place to seek out jewelry repairs.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular inspection of your jewelry is an important step in preventing the necessity of jewelry repairs, but in addition to this, periodic professional inspections should be conducted as well. Your jeweler will be happy to take a look at your jewelry pieces to ensure they are in good condition. This may seem like an inconvenience or unnecessary expense to some, but when compared to the potential loss incurred when a clasp or prong fails, it really makes good sense to follow this simple rule of preventative maintenance.
The best practice is to follow a regimen of regularly scheduled cleaning and self-inspection of your frequently worn jewelry. This will help to lessen the frequency of need for jewelry repairs, and also alert you to possible damage at an early stage, effectively preventing further damage and/or loss. If theres ever any question regarding a specific piece, a quick visit to your local jeweler will set your mind at ease.
