Ara L. - Feb 5, 2021

Common Repairs - Rings

Our motivation to enter this industry was to simplify the whole jewellery shopping process. The complexities surrounding jewellery production has made it far too challenging for all of us to shop. One of the largest areas of focus is the fact that Jewellery needs repair over time. We’ve decided to introduce the Resources series, articles that will focus only on common repair types. 

Rings

To understand the repair types, we’ll dissect the ring the way a Goldsmith looks at the piece. 

Visiting your Goldsmith for repair to your ring would either be due to natural wear, degradation of the piece, or physical damage that needs some fixing. On another note, if your ring simply doesn’t fit like it used to, sizing would be the only other type of repair required. 

Shank Repair
You will typically repair the shank of your ring due to degradation over time. Those who wear their rings frequently or directly beside other rings will see the ring’s bottom and bottom-sides getting thinner over time. As Gold and Silver are precious metals, they have an inherent softness to them. It’s virtually impossible to avoid.

Though this repair can tend to cost more than most variations, it’s not one you will encounter frequently. The investment in having it fixed is well worth it. A ring with a worn-out shank, over time, becomes almost impossible to wear and will eventually crack in half.

If you’re aiming to be proactive, research your ring’s thickness and width before purchasing it. Although most shoppers tend to give in to the style, know that the wider and thicker the shank is, the longer it will last. 

Mount Repair
The mount of your ring is mainly on the setting and the gemstones set within them. Whether a Claw-style, Bezel-style or any other variation, the mount sees quite a bit of wear over time. As it pertains to your Engagement Ring, it is vital to keep an eye every 6-months or so to ensure the mount’s setting is in solid shape.

In other circumstances, the mount will need repair due to an unforeseen crack. Depending on how your ring is crafted, there is an opportunity for cracking. Your Goldsmith can restore the piece and should be able to quote you on the job; however, the cost will vary depending on the complexity of the damage.

If you’re interested in understanding the cost aspect of Mount Repair, it’s best to cover it by saying it’s quite costly. This work is the most time consuming and requires detail and experience for a professional finish. 

Shoulder Repair 
Without the shoulders of your ring, we can’t have the mount. Depending on your ring, the shoulders may have a simple, high-polished finish or provide additional detail such as diamonds, gems, textured patterns, or cutouts.

Generally, the broader and thicker the shoulder is, the more opportunity to add character to the shoulders. Simultaneously, the wider and thicker the shoulder is, the lesser chances your ring will give in to potential damages. Simply put, it becomes a more structurally stronger piece. Nevertheless, the most common type of repair is a cracked shoulder, or, should there be any style of setting on the shoulders, those settings may need some repairing. 

Sizing Repairs
The size of your ring is determined mainly by your finger with a couple of careful considerations. There are a few at-home methods you can use to figure out your ring size, including our Ring Size Guide page. If you happen to have a Ring Sizer in front of you (while visiting your jeweller), then you’re looking to find a size that fits through your knuckle with gentle force and sits with comfort on your finger, neither tight nor loose.

If your size has changed, simply have your ring resized, but with a maximum difference of 3 sizes. Unfortunately, your ring will be compromised and will be reshaped due to the over support needed in size change.

If you’re in a different situation where your ring doesn’t pass through your knuckle any further, it would be time to consider an Arthritic Fit Shank, where you can clip your ring on with 100% security and comfort. Specialized Goldsmiths will offer repairs of this nature. Speak to A&A immediately if you need help with this. 

If you need some additional help with Repairs, whether it be for a Ring, Bracelet or any type of jewellery, please Contact Us. We assist our community with jewellery repairs. Not close to us, that’s not a problem! We often have our clients ship their repairs and conduct a consultation over a call.