Whether you’re dropping off a family heirloom for repair or just curious about the process, understanding common jewelry repair terms can help you communicate clearly with your jeweler. Here’s a glossary of key terms used in jewelry repair, crafted to empower you with knowledge and confidence.
A–D
Annealing
Heating metal (like gold or silver) to make it softer and easier to reshape during repairs.
Bezel Setting
A metal rim that holds a gemstone securely in place. Repairing bezels often involves tightening or reshaping the metal.
Brooch Pin
The metal clasp or fastener on a brooch. Repairs may include fixing bent pins or replacing broken springs.
Clasp
The mechanism used to fasten necklaces, bracelets, or chains. Common types include lobster, spring ring, and toggle clasps.
Crown
The top part of a watch that adjusts the time and winds the movement. Watch crown repairs often involve resealing or replacing worn parts.
E–H
Engraving
The process of carving designs, text, or patterns into metal. Hand engraving requires specialized tools and skill.
Eyelet
A small metal loop used to attach pendants or charms to chains. Repairing eyelets prevents pendants from slipping off.
Filigree
Delicate, lace-like metalwork often found in vintage jewelry. Repairs require careful soldering to preserve intricate details.
Flush Setting
A gemstone setting where the stone is embedded into the metal, leaving no prongs. Repairs may involve retightening the metal around the stone.
Half-Shank Replacement
Replacing the worn bottom half of a ring’s band (common for heavily worn wedding rings).
I–L
Invisible Setting
A technique where gemstones are set into a metal track with no visible prongs. Repairs are complex and require precision.
Jump Ring
A small, circular metal ring used to connect charms, pendants, or chain links. Broken jump rings are a common repair.
Laser Welding
A modern technique that uses a laser to fuse metal without damaging delicate stones or surrounding areas.
Loupe
A small magnifying tool jewelers use to inspect jewelry for damage, stone security, or repair quality.
Linking
Reconnecting broken chain links. For fine chains, this may require micro-soldering.
M–P
Mandrel
A tapered metal rod used to measure ring sizes and reshape rings during resizing.
Patina
A natural tarnish or finish that forms on metal over time. Some repairs preserve patina for vintage pieces.
Pave Setting
A style where small gemstones are set closely together, held by tiny prongs. Repairs often involve retipping prongs.
Prong
A small metal claw that holds a gemstone in place. Prongs can wear down over time and require retipping or replacement.
Plating
Adding a thin layer of metal (e.g., rhodium plating for white gold) to restore shine or color.
R–T
Resizing
Adjusting a ring’s size by stretching, cutting, or adding metal.
Rhodium Plating
A reflective, scratch-resistant coating applied to white gold or silver to prevent tarnishing.
Soldering
Using heat and metal alloy (solder) to fuse broken pieces together.
Shank
The band of a ring. Shank repairs fix thinning, cracks, or misshapen areas.
Tension Setting
A modern setting where a gemstone is held in place by pressure from the metal band. Repairs require specialized tools.
Tarnish
Discoloration on metal caused by oxidation. Polishing or replating removes tarnish.
U–Z
Ultrasonic Cleaner
A machine that uses high-frequency sound waves and cleaning solution to remove dirt from jewelry.
Watch Crystal
The clear cover protecting a watch face. Repairs include replacing scratched or cracked crystals (glass, acrylic, or sapphire).
Watch Movement
The internal mechanism of a watch. Repairs may involve cleaning (servicing), replacing gears, or fixing the mainspring.
White Gold Replating
Restoring the bright white finish of white gold jewelry by reapplying rhodium.
Why This Glossary Matters for Customers
Understanding these terms helps you:
- Communicate Clearly: Describe repair needs accurately.
- Evaluate Expertise: Ask informed questions about the repair process.
- Preserve Sentimental Value: Make confident decisions about heirlooms or custom pieces.
Need Jewelry Repair in Downtown Atlanta?
Visit Jewelry Repair of Atlanta at 75 John Portman Blvd NW Ste 8W356B. Our experts will explain your repair options in plain English—no jargon!
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