We do repairs at each of our three locations, and the best way to find out if we can repair your piece is simply to bring it in for an estimate. We typically have a 15-day or two week turnaround for repairs, and each repair is completed in the order it is received. Each store may have its own policy on rush orders. Every repair varies, but as an overview, here is a list of some of the things we can or cannot do:
Basic Stringing: If you have a necklace or bracelet that needs to be re-strung, chances are we can either do it for you, or assist you in re-stringing it yourself, while we do the more difficult parts such as re-attaching a clasp. We usually recommend stringing it on professional-grade 49-strand Beadalon, which consists of 49 strands of stainless steel wire with a nylon coating. It is extremely durable and flexible, and comes in a variety of thicknesses.
We usually will not recommend that a piece be strung on any sort of stretchy cord, as this will eventually break. Some pieces may last longer than others, depending on the wear-and-tear your piece of jewelry typically undergoes, but overall, stretchy cord is not very reliable.
Knotting: We can also string your piece on silk or nylon cord, which, unlike the Beadalon, can be knotted -- such as the traditional knotting in between pearls. This is not quite as durable as the Beadalon, but it flows a little more freely than the slightly stiffer beading wire. Knotting in between each bead will cost a bit more than straight bead-stringing, and the price may also vary depending on the size of each bead.
A graduated strand -- that is, beads that graduate in size -- may also cost more than the straight bead-stringing, but again, please bring the piece in for a more detailed estimate.
Earrings: We can also replace ear-wires, such as converting from base metal to sterling or gold-filled, or substituting leverbacks for basic ear-wires -- leverbacks close around your ears and reduce the risk of your earring falling off. We can also replace ear-wires with clip-ons, though all of this will depend on how the earring is constructed and how the ear-wires are attached. Please bring the piece in so we can give you a clearer idea if it's something we can fix or not.
Wire-Wrapping: We can provide a variety of wire-wrapping services; anything from basic loops to leather end-coils to wire-wrapped pendants. Again, please bring your piece in so we can assess whether it's something we can fix or not.
Soldering: Unfortunately, our stores do not offer soldering. You may wish to check your local phone book for a jeweler in town that might.
Drilling: We cannot drill holes in stones, wood, shell, or other pieces. We recommend looking up a local lapidary for those services.
A courtesy call is given to customers when the repair is finished.
All
repairs are kept on file at our stores, and repair pieces are guaranteed
for 1 year.
Custom Design:
We can also do custom design work, which would also entail at least a two-week turnaround (depending on the complexity of the piece). Please visit one of our stores and talk to one of our salespeople for further details.