Clackamas Literary Review | Fashion and Shopping

Four Suggestions for Gold Necklaces, Vintage Pendants, and Costume Jewelry Repair

Jewelry, from new gold necklaces to vintage pendants handed down from generations help define a woman. When jewelry wears out, although some of the pieces may not be categorized as fine, expensive jewelry, they are still precious to their owner. When looking for a company who can help you with your costume jewelry repair, be sure to look for the following four items.

Choose a Reputable Store

Finding a store with a good reputation is important. If you don’t have a relationship with a jeweler already, ask your neighbors, friends, and co-workers for references. Another excellent source is to check online and read any reviews that have been written about the company and their experience in repairing gold necklaces.

Use Specific Questions When Calling References

Call the jeweler you are thinking about using and ask if they can provide you with references. Be aware, that any references you are given by a jeweler will be people or companies who they think will give you a good reference. Therefore, the questions you ask when you call are very important. When you call ask very specific questions rather than general questions.

For example, if you ask, “What was your experience with this jeweler?” The answer you are likely to get is, “Fine.” Instead, ask a questions like “What did they do with your vintage pendant that demonstrated competence?” or “Will you describe the intake form they used when they took your jewelry to repair?” Questions like these will give detailed answers and enable you to ferret out a lot of information about the company.

Check for Warranty Information

When you take get your costume jewelry in for repair, find out if it comes with a warranty. Watch for the terms of the warranty. For example, does it come with a six month or one year warranty? What does the warranty cover?

Use a Take-in Form

Even if the company doesn’t offer to give you a take in form for your jewelry, insist that you get one. The form should include four items:

A detailed description of the jewelry. This should include any distinct markings or features on your vintage pendant so that you know it really is yours when you pick it up.

A detailed description of the repair that will be performed. Have them specify exactly which clasps, prongs, etc. need repaired.

An estimate of how much it will cost to make the repair

A replacement amount that you both agree on if the piece gets damaged beyond repair.

leealperandsonjewelers.com is a costume jewelry repair specialize in the repair of all makes of watches new, antique and collectible. ()