Necklaces break more often than almost any other type of jewelry. Chains are thin, they get pulled and snagged, and clasps open and close thousands of times. The good news is that most broken necklaces can be repaired, often quickly and nearly invisibly.
This guide covers the most common necklace repairs, how they're done, what affects cost and timeline, and how to keep your necklaces from breaking in the first place.
Common Necklace Problems
- A chain that snapped
- A broken or worn clasp
- A stretched or open jump ring
- A kinked or knotted chain
- A damaged bail (the loop connecting a pendant to the chain)
- A missing or loose stone in a pendant
- A broken pearl or bead strand
- A chain that's too long or too short
Chain Repair
Soldering a broken chain
Most broken chains are repaired by soldering the broken link closed. A skilled jeweler uses precise heat to join the link without damaging nearby links. When done well, the repair is nearly invisible.
Replacing damaged links
If several links are damaged, they can sometimes be removed and the chain rejoined. This shortens the chain slightly.
Delicate and specialty chains
Very fine, hollow, rope, herringbone, and snake chains require extra care. Herringbone chains, for example, kink easily and may not return to perfect form after damage. We'll tell you what's realistic.
Kinks and knots
Many knots can be worked out by hand with fine tools. Kinks in some chain styles can be straightened, while others leave a permanent mark.
Learn more in our chain repair guide.
Clasp Repair and Replacement
Clasps take a lot of stress. Common clasp types include:
- Spring ring - small and common, but springs wear out.
- Lobster clasp - stronger and easier to use.
- Box clasp - common on tennis necklaces; should include a safety latch.
- Toggle clasp - decorative bar-and-ring closure.
- Magnetic clasp - easy to use, but not ideal for valuable necklaces on its own.
If your clasp is weak, upgrading to a sturdier lobster clasp or adding a safety catch is often a smart move.
Jump Ring Repair
Jump rings connect clasps to chains. When they stretch open, the clasp can slip off. Soldering jump rings closed makes them much more secure.
Pendant and Bail Repair
A worn bail can wear through and drop the pendant. A jeweler can repair or replace the bail, or fit a larger one so the pendant hangs better on a thicker chain. Loose stones in pendants can be tightened, and missing stones replaced.
Pearl and Bead Necklace Repair
Pearl and bead necklaces are strung, not soldered. When the thread breaks or stretches, the necklace needs restringing. Fine pearls are usually knotted between each pearl. See our bead restringing service.
Shortening or Lengthening a Necklace
Chains can be shortened by removing links and reattaching the clasp. Lengthening usually requires an extender or adding a matching section of chain.
What Affects Necklace Repair Cost
- Metal type - gold, silver, or platinum
- Chain style - fine and specialty chains take more care
- Type of repair - a simple solder vs. a clasp replacement vs. rebuilding a bail
- Number of breaks
- Stones - heat-sensitive stones near the repair may need protection
We'll give you a clear quote before any work begins.
How Long Does Necklace Repair Take?
Many simple chain and clasp repairs can be completed quickly, often the same day. Specialty chains, extensive damage, or stone work can take longer. Because we repair in-house, you won't wait for your necklace to be shipped out.
Can Costume Necklaces Be Repaired?
Some can. Plated and base-metal chains often can't be soldered safely, but clasps and jump rings can sometimes be replaced. We'll look and tell you honestly.
Preventing Necklace Breaks
- Take necklaces off before sleeping, showering, and exercising.
- Fasten the clasp before storing to prevent tangles.
- Store chains hanging or laid flat, separately.
- Use a chain strong enough for your pendant's weight.
- Have clasps and jump rings checked periodically.
See our jewelry care tips.
Necklace Repair in Mesa
Brilliant Jewelry is a fourth-generation, family-owned jeweler at 1237 S Val Vista Dr Ste 204, Mesa, AZ 85204. We repair chains, clasps, bails, and pendants in-house as part of our jewelry repair services.
Book a necklace repair appointment or call or text (480) 331-8652.