Having jewelry repaired: When is it worth it and what does it cost?

A chain has broken, a stone is missing, the clasp on a bracelet is stuck, or a ring has bent – jewelry can suffer damage over time. But before you throw away a favorite piece or tuck it away in a drawer, it's worth looking into repair options. Repairing jewelry is often more affordable than you think, and for sentimental pieces, it's always the only right decision. This comprehensive guide will show you which repairs are possible, what they cost, and when they are worthwhile.

Why repair jewelry instead of throwing it away?

Jewelry has an emotional dimension that sets it apart from other consumer goods. An heirloom, a gift for a special occasion, or a ring worn daily for decades – these pieces have a value that goes far beyond their material worth. Repairing them is not only economically sensible but also an act of appreciation for one's own history.

Furthermore, there's the sustainability aspect: a repaired piece of jewelry is significantly more environmentally friendly than a newly purchased one.

The most common jewelry damages and their repairs

Broken or bent chain

A broken chain is one of the most common jewelry repairs. A jeweler will weld the broken link back together – usually a very simple procedure that is barely visible. Cost: 15–40 Euros, depending on the chain material and thickness.

Repairing silver chains is cheaper than repairing gold chains. Very fine, delicate chains can be more difficult to repair and consequently cost more.

Missing or damaged stone

If a stone has fallen out of its setting, it must be re-set. The outcome depends on whether the original stone is still available or needs to be replaced. Cost for re-setting an existing stone: 20–60 Euros. If a new stone has to be sourced, material costs will be added – depending on the type of stone, from a few Euros (zirconia) to many hundreds of Euros (rare gemstones).

Bent ring

Rings made of softer gold (585 or 750) can bend due to pressure or impact. Re-rounding on a ring mandrel is a standard repair and usually costs only 10–25 Euros.

Defective clasp

A stuck, broken, or no longer closing clasp on a chain, bracelet, or earring will be replaced. Standard lobster clasps are very inexpensive to purchase; the repair, including labor, usually costs 15–35 Euros.

Resizing a ring (smaller or larger)

Rings can generally be resized by up to 2 sizes, either smaller or larger. To make smaller (reduce): A piece of metal is cut out and the ring is re-welded. Cost: 25–50 Euros. To make larger (enlarge): A piece of metal is inserted or the ring is stretched. A bit more complex: 40–80 Euros. Rings with stones or engravings require more care and are accordingly more expensive.

Refurbishing the gold plating (Rhodium plating)

White gold jewelry is coated with a thin layer of rhodium, which wears off over time. Refurbishing this layer at a jeweler is cheaper than many think: 30–80 Euros, depending on the size and complexity of the piece.

Polishing and removing scratches

Scratches in gold or silver can be minimized or removed by professional polishing. Cost: 20–50 Euros, depending on the condition and size of the piece. Important: Every polishing removes a minimal amount of metal – too frequent polishing is not recommended.

Restringing a pearl necklace

The thread of a pearl necklace wears out over time and eventually breaks. Restringing a pearl necklace (with knots between each pearl) is labor-intensive, but important for the security of the pearls. Cost: 50–150 Euros, depending on the number of pearls and the necklace construction.

When is a repair worthwhile?

As a rule of thumb: if the emotional or material value of the piece is higher than the repair costs, the repair is almost always worthwhile. Guidance:

• Repair costs less than 30% of the item's value: Always repair
• Repair costs 30–60% of the item's value: Repair for sentimental pieces; for purely utilitarian jewelry, weigh the options
• Repair costs more than 60% of the item's value: Only sensible for irreplaceable heirlooms or very valuable jewelry

Finding the right jeweler for repairs

• Prefer a goldsmith: A goldsmith with their own workshop can perform more complex repairs directly. Jewelers without their own workshop often just forward the work (and profit from the forwarding).
• Always get a cost estimate: Reputable jewelers provide a non-binding cost estimate before any repair – never allow work to be done without agreeing on a price.
• Ask for references: Recommendations are worthwhile, especially for elaborate repairs.
• Item description and photos: Take photos of all sides of the jewelry before handing it in – as documentation of its original condition.

What you can repair yourself

Some minor issues can be fixed yourself with a bit of skill:

• Replacing earring backs (butterfly backs): Inexpensive replacement backs are available at any costume jewelry store.
• Untangling a chain: With a little patience, baby oil, and two needles, even stubborn knots can be untangled.
• Cleaning a hinge clasp: With a toothpick, a little oil, and patience, clogged clasps can often be made functional again.

High-quality new creations at Corelune Jewellery

Sometimes a piece of jewelry is so damaged that a new creation makes more sense than a repair. In this case, you will find high-quality replacements at Corelune Jewellery – jewelry made for longevity. Discover our collection!