Can a gemstone that is worn be repolished?

Any gemstone other than diamond can become dull over time through wear and tear. This is a result of the stone rubbing on harder materials. Stones set in rings are much more likely to suffer this kind of damage than those in (say) a pendant or earirngs. Gemstones are graded on Mohs' scale, which is a measure of hardness. Where it comes on the scale indicates the ability of one stone type to scratch, or to be scratched by another. The lower on the scale, the easier it is to damage the surface of a stone. Diamond, at 10 on the scale is hardest, so it can only be scratched by another diamond. Even Sapphire and Ruby, which are graded as 9 on Mohs' scale, often become dull, as the result of thousands of tiny scratches. The surface of a stone can be repolished by a lapidary. This is highly skilled work, and sometimes the cost of repairing an inexpensive stone is more than the stone is worth. We are always happy to take a look and advise you.

Can a ring that was cut off be repaired?

Repairing a plain band ring that had to be cut off is generally a straightforward procedure for a jeweller, and the join should be invisible. Usually rings are cut off using a ring-cutter, which is a specialist tool designed for the job. This leaves a perfectly straight cut, which is simple for jeweller to rejoin. Sometimes, rings are snipped off using an unsuitable tool such as side cutter pliers. This can cause damage other than the cut itself, which will make it a slightly bigger job to sort out. It the ring is not a plain band (like a wedding ring) it might have a design which will need to be matched-in if the reapair is not going to show. When a ring is cut off it needs to be opened up in order to remove it from the finger. Sometimes this can distort or even break stone settings. This additional damage will make it a more complex job to put right, which will add to the cost of repair. A ring that has been cut off can appear to be badly damaged, but usually it is possible for a good jeweller to sort out.

Andrew Leggett • March 20, 2021

Jewellery Restoration and Repair

Putting your precious jewellery back into good condition.

Whether the result of an accident, or just wear-and-tear, problems can arise with jewellery that require some attention from an expert.

Like everything you own, jewellery sometime needs a little TLC to keep it in good condition.

As well as designing and making new items of jewellery, at Aurum jewellers, in Worthing, we also undertake restoration, and repair work on customers' jewellery.

This ranges from minor jobs, such as straightening a bent claw, through to much more extensive work involving rebuilding worn areas and replacing lost parts.

Often, a piece that appears to be damaged beyond repair can be rescued and given a new lease of Life.

Sometimes a problem appears much worse than it really is, and some minor refurbishment will return your item to its former glory.

If you spot a problem with a piece of your jewellery it is best to deal with it straight away.

Don't just ignore it and carry on wearing the item.

Remember - "A stitch in time saves nine"!

If we catch it at an early stage, we can often carry out a fairly simple repair that will prevent the problem from developing into something that is much more complex and costly to sort out.

So, if you notice a stone is loose don't wait until it falls out and is lost! - We can tighten or perhaps re-tip the claws so that the stone is safe.

Replacing lost stones

If you do lose a diamond or other gemstone we can find a suitable replacement.

At the same time, we'll also check that any other stones are safe in their settings. Sometimes it is necessary to strengthen or re-tip claws.

Claiming on your Insurance

When it is a case of accidental damage, including loss of a gemstone, it might be possible to make an insurance claim. (You cannot insure against wear-and-tear).

We would be pleased to take a look at the damage and supply a written estimate for your insurance company. The claim should be made and settlement agreed before any work is carried out.

Our goldsmiths love sorting out problems with clients' much-loved pieces, and returning them to their former glory.

Do you have a piece of precious jewellery that is in need of attention?

We would be delighted to take a look at it and advise you on what needs to be done.

Please call to arrange an appointment with one of our highly-skilled goldsmiths.

It was fantastic to get my Nan's ring back...

"I wanted to say how grateful I am for the amazing job you did on my ring. I was devastated when the ring I inherited from my Nan fell apart. It was fantastic to get my Nan's ring back, looking better than I can ever remember! I shall definitely recommend you to my friends."
Jess D
(Horsham)

To make an appointment, or to ask a question please give us a call or fill in the form below.

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Jewellery Repair and Restoration FAQs

Can a gemstone that is worn be repolished?

Any gemstone other than diamond can become dull over time through wear and tear. This is a result of the stone rubbing on harder materials.

Stones set in rings are much more likely to suffer this kind of damage than those in (say) a pendant or earirngs.

Gemstones are graded on Mohs' scale, which is a measure of hardness. Where it comes on the scale indicates the ability of one stone type to scratch, or to be scratched by another. The lower on the scale, the easier it is to damage the surface of a stone.

Diamond, at 10 on the scale is hardest, so it can only be scratched by another diamond. Even Sapphire and Ruby, which are graded as 9 on Mohs' scale, often become dull, as the result of thousands of tiny scratches.

The surface of a stone can be repolished by a lapidary. This is highly skilled work, and sometimes the cost of repairing an inexpensive stone is more than the stone is worth.
We are always happy to take a look and advise you.
Can a ring that was cut off be repaired?

Repairing a plain band ring that had to be cut off is generally a straightforward procedure for a jeweller, and the join should be invisible.

Usually rings are cut off using a ring-cutter, which is a specialist tool designed for the job. This leaves a perfectly straight cut, which is simple for jeweller to rejoin.

Sometimes, rings are snipped off using an unsuitable tool such as side cutter pliers. This can cause damage other than the cut itself, which will make it a slightly bigger job to sort out.

It the ring is not a plain band (like a wedding ring) it might have a design which will need to be matched-in if the reapair is not going to show.

When a ring is cut off it needs to be opened up in order to remove it from the finger. Sometimes this can distort or even break stone settings. This additional damage will make it a more complex job to put right, which will add to the cost of repair.

A ring that has been cut off can appear to be badly damaged, but usually it is possible for a good jeweller to sort out.