How to Tell If Your Jewellery Needs Repair – Signs Your Treasured Pieces Need Expert Care
- mariaxgorbea
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
Jewellery is meant to last a lifetime—or even longer when passed down through generations. But just like anything we wear and love daily, fine jewellery can show signs of wear and tear over time. The key to preserving your treasured pieces is knowing when they need expert care before damage becomes irreversible.
Here are some common warning signs that your jewellery needs professional attention:
1. Loose or Missing Stones
One of the most obvious signs that a repair is needed is a loose or missing gemstone. If you notice your diamond or coloured stone wobbling in its setting or if a prong looks bent, don’t wait! A weakened setting increases the risk of losing the stone altogether.
How to check:
Gently tap the stone with your fingernail—if it moves, it’s time for a repair!
2. Broken or Worn Prongs
Prongs are the tiny metal claws that hold gemstones in place. Over time, they can become bent, worn down, or even snap off, making your stone vulnerable.
Common signs:
A prong looks shorter than the others.
You can feel a rough edge when running your finger over the setting.
The gemstone feels loose or uneven.
Did you know?
Regular prong maintenance can prevent costly stone replacements in the future!
3. Thin or Cracked Ring Bands
Rings, especially those worn daily like engagement rings and wedding bands, can thin over time due to constant wear. If your ring band looks noticeably thinner at the bottom, it may be at risk of breaking.
When to act:
If you can bend the band easily or see a visible crack, it’s time for reinforcement!
4. Chain Links or Clasps That Won’t Close Properly
Necklaces and bracelets often suffer from weakened clasps or stretched/broken chain links. If your clasp doesn’t close securely, you risk losing your jewellery without even realising it.
Signs to look for:
The clasp is difficult to fasten or doesn’t click shut.
A chain link appears stretched or weak.
Pro Tip:
Always check clasps before wearing delicate necklaces—better safe than sorry!
5. Tarnished or Discoloured Metal
Over time, sterling silver naturally tarnishes, while gold jewellery can show discolouration due to contact with lotions, perfumes, and even skin pH. If your jewellery looks dull, patchy, or has blackened areas, a professional cleaning and polish can restore its shine.
Did you know?
Vera McCullough Jewellery offers professional cleaning services to bring your pieces back to life!
6. Rings No Longer Fit Comfortably
If your rings feel too tight or too loose, a resizing may be necessary. Wearing a ring that’s too tight can be uncomfortable, while a loose ring increases the risk of slipping off and getting lost.
Signs you need a resize:
Your ring spins constantly on your finger.
You struggle to take it off, especially in warmer weather.
7. Earrings That Feel Loose or Unstable
Earring backs and hooks can loosen over time, leading to potential loss. If your earrings don’t sit securely or the backs feel loose even after fastening, it’s best to get them checked.
When Repair Isn’t Enough: Time for a Jewellery Redesign
Sometimes, a piece of jewellery isn’t damaged—it just isn’t quite right anymore. Perhaps you’ve inherited a family piece that doesn’t suit your style, or you’ve outgrown a design you once loved. Instead of leaving it unworn in a jewellery box, why not breathe new life into it?
At Vera McCullough Jewellery, we specialise in redesigning sentimental jewellery to create pieces that feel fresh while preserving their history.
A few ways we can transform your jewellery:
Modernise old heirlooms – Turn a vintage ring into a sleek, contemporary design.
Repurpose gemstones – Use existing diamonds or gemstones in a brand-new setting.
Combine multiple pieces – Merge inherited pieces into one meaningful creation.
Make it more wearable – Adjust settings or resize rings so you can comfortably wear them every day.
A redesign lets you keep the sentimentality of your jewellery while making it something you truly love and wear.
Keep Your Jewellery in Perfect Condition
At Vera McCullough Jewellery, we believe that fine jewellery should last a lifetime. Whether it’s a loose stone, a worn-out setting, or a complete redesign, we’re here to help.
Book a repair or redesign consultation today and give your jewellery the expert care it deserves.
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