How Long Does Jewellery Repair Take? A Complete Guide to Repair Times in the UK

How Long Does Jewellery Repair Usually Take?

Most straightforward jewellery repairs require only a minimal amount of bench time, but overall can take anywhere from a few days to weeks to complete, depending on the nature of the repair and the workshop's schedule.

For instance, repairing a broken gold chain is a significantly lesser task than rebuilding a badly worn engagement ring.

Nevertheless, even a straightforward repair needs to be examined, scheduled, completed and checked before being returned to the customer.

At The Jewellery Mechanic, we think it's important to explain the difference between how long a repair takes to carry out and how long you'll be without your jewellery.

Typical Jewellery Repair Times

The following are broad estimates, not guaranteed completion times.

These estimates vary between workshops. Postal delivery, parts availability and existing bookings can extend the turnaround.

Why Can't Every Jewellery Repair Be Completed the Same Day?

A jewellery repair is not as simple as it may appear.

Before commencing any repair it is essential that the item being repaired is examined and assessed as to what work needs to be carried out.

A broken chain may have more than one link damaged, a ring that needs to be re-sized could have loose diamonds, and a broken claw may be part of a broken setting.

By identifying problem areas before any repair work is undertaken ensures that the correct repairs are made, not just the obvious damage.

Once repaired, the jewellery should be presented in a manner that shows that the repairs have been completed to a high standard.

A repair should not be rushed in order for it to be completed quickly, it should take as long as it needs in order for the repair to be carried out correctly.

Does an In-House Jewellery Workshop Make a Difference?

It can.

Some jewellery retailers have repairs done elsewhere,

which involves the added step of receiving and dispatching between the retailer and the jeweller performing the repair.

When you use The Jewellery Mechanic, your repairs are done in house by qualified manufacturing jewellers,

enabling us to assess and control the quality of the repair first-hand. But that doesn't mean we can do any repair, at any time. We still have to consider the workload we already have as well as the complexity of the job, and whether any replacement parts are needed.

What If You Need Your Jewellery Repaired Urgently?

If you need a ring or another piece of jewellery repaired for a wedding, anniversary or special occasion, tell us when you enquire.

We can assess the repair and explain whether your deadline is realistic.

Some jobs may be suitable for a quicker turnaround.

Others, particularly those involving damaged settings or replacement stones, may require more time.

We'd rather be clear about that from the beginning.

With over 35 years of hands-on jewellery experience, our priority is to carry out repairs properly while giving customers realistic expectations.

How Long Does Ring Resizing Take?

How Long Does Ring Sizing Take?

Ring sizing usually takes about a week or two. Some simple jobs can be done faster and more complex rings take longer to resize.

It all depends on the style of the ring, the type of precious metals, its overall condition and how big or small you want it to be.

At The Jewellery Mechanic we will examine your ring and confirm the job and timing once we have received it.

Does Making a Ring Bigger Take Longer Than Making It Smaller?

Not necessarily.

When reducing the size of a ring, a manufacturing jeweller would often remove a calculated length of metal, join up the band and restore the shape.

When enlarging we may need to add a new length of matching precious metal.

Both processes require a great deal of care during finishing and checking.

The amount of time taken depends on the extent of the resizing and the construction of the ring and not simply whether it is being made bigger or smaller.

Do Diamond Rings Take Longer to Resize?

They can.

A simple gold wedding ring tends to be easier to resize than an engagement ring with diamonds set into the shoulders.

So when resizing a diamond ring, we may need to make adjustments to the settings in order to change the shape of the band.

This means we need to check that the diamonds are secure before and after the work, and if there are any claws or settings that need extra attention, it may prolong the repair.

How Long Does Platinum Ring Resizing Take?

Platinum rings can often be resized within similar overall timeframes to gold rings.

But platinum needs suitable workshop equipment and techniques.

The design and condition of the ring are more important than the metal alone when estimating the turnaround.

Why Might My Ring Resizing Take Longer?

A resizing job may require additional time if:

• The ring has diamonds set around the band.

• The shank is badly worn or thin.

• Previous repairs need attention.

• The ring requires a substantial size adjustment.

• Additional matching precious metal is needed.

• The diamond settings require repair.

For example, if we discover that the bottom of your engagement ring is extremely thin, resizing it without addressing that wear may not be sensible.

We would explain the additional work before proceeding.

Can You Get a Ring Resized Quickly?

Sometimes, depending on the ring and workshop availability.

However, we wouldn't recommend rushing a complicated resizing job, particularly where diamonds or delicate settings are involved.

If you need your ring for a particular date, let us know when requesting your quote.

We'll explain if it's achievable.

The priority is to return the ring that fits, has the correct shape and stone settings.

How Long Does It Take to Repair a Broken Gold Chain?

A simple repair of a gold chain usually takes only a couple of days to a fortnight, depending on the extent of the damage and the workload in the workshop.

If your gold chain broke, don't be in too much of a hurry to replace it as most broken chains can be repaired by reconnecting the links with a suitable soldering technique.

But the time it takes to repair a chain depends on what kind of chain it is and whether the break affected only one link or several parts of the chain.

At The Jewellery Mechanic we will examine your broken chain and tell you if it can be repaired

How Long Does a Simple Gold Chain Solder Take?

The actual soldering of a simple break doesn't take long.

However, the whole job also includes inspecting the chain, preparing the broken area, soldering, cleaning, and testing the repaired chain.

Depending on how quickly the job can be scheduled in the shop, a simple repair can still take some time.

It can't just be done right away.

Why Do Some Gold Chains Take Longer to Repair?

Not all chains are constructed in the same way.

A solid curb chain with one broken link may be relatively straightforward to repair.

A delicate hollow chain can be considerably more complicated.

The main factors include:

• Chain design: Some links are more difficult to access and repair.

• Hollow construction: Thin hollow links can be vulnerable to heat and distortion.

• Multiple breaks: Several damaged areas require additional work.

• Worn links: Surrounding links may need attention before the chain is suitable to wear.

• Previous repairs: Old solder joints can complicate further work.

Sometimes a chain that appears to have one simple break has several other links that are close to failing.

In that situation, we would explain the additional damage before proceeding.

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Broken Clasp?

Replacing a broken clasp is usually quite simple if you have a suitable replacement.

It could take longer if a particular size, style or precious metal clasp needs to be ordered.

We also check the connecting rings and surrounding links to ensure that the new clasp will fit securely.

Can a Broken Gold Chain Be Repaired the Same Day?

Sometimes in the case of simple damage and availability in the workshop, however, same-day repairs are not always possible. There may be a need for further processing of the chain, or the correct replacement part may not be available. We would rather give you an honest estimate of the time required to complete the repair than promise a quick fix before looking at jewellery.

Is It Worth Repairing an Old Gold Chain?

Yes often.

A broken gold chain can be repaired if the other links are ok.

It may be worth repairing if it is a sentimental piece or had been worn for a long time.

If the whole chain is pretty worn down though, it might not be worth it to fix it because it's likely to break again.

I will evaluate the chain and tell you if it's worth repairing.

At The Jewellery Mechanic, our manufacturing jewellers carry out chain repairs in-house, with the aim of restoring your jewellery properly rather than simply joining the visible break.

How Long Do Claw Repairs and Diamond Replacement Take?

A simple claw repair or adjustment of a loose diamond can take a couple of days to two weeks, whereas a replacement of a missing diamond or rebuilding a damaged setting can take a few weeks

The length of time will depend on how much work needs to be done on the setting, what work needs to be done before the repair can begin and whether a replacement stone or part needs to be found

At The Jewellery Mechanic we will assess the setting as a whole before beginning the repair.

How Long Does It Take to Repair a Broken Claw?

If one claw has broken but the rest of the setting remains in good condition, the repair may be relatively straightforward.

However, if several claws have become worn, additional work may be necessary.

Common claw repairs include:

• Tightening an existing claw

• Rebuilding a worn claw tip

• Replacing a broken claw

• Rebuilding several damaged claws

• Replacing a badly worn setting

A ring requiring one small claw repair will generally involve less work than a ring needing a complete replacement setting.

How Long Does It Take to Tighten a Loose Diamond?

Tightening a loose diamond can sometimes be a quick job in the workshop.

But we need to determine why the diamond has come loose in the first place

We can attempt to tighten the claws if they are still strong enough, or we may need to rebuild the whole setting if the claws have been stretched beyond repair.

It is important that we secure the diamond properly, rather than just rushing the job.

Make sure that the diamond stays safe!

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Missing Diamond?

Replacing a missing diamond can be a slow process, due to us having to source a new stone.

For a smaller diamond in a shoulder of a ring, we usually need to find a diamond with the same measurements and appearance to match the other stones.

However, a bigger centre diamond can have a larger range of shape, size and quality, to fit the budget of the customer.

Once a diamond has been sourced, we need to assess the setting and repair any damage that may have caused the original stone to come loose, which can take time depending on the stone and setting used.

Therefore, the overall repair can take between a week to four weeks or sometimes longer.

Why Can Replacing a Diamond Setting Take Longer?

Sometimes, the original setting has been too worn to make a reliable repair.

In such cases, the solution might be to replace the setting entirely.

This could necessitate removing the diamond from the setting, making or sourcing a new one, fitting it to the ring and resetting the stone.

The ring will then need to be inspected and finished before the repair is complete.

If the setting has to be specially made or sourced, it may take longer for the repair to be completed.

What Should You Do While Waiting for a Claw Repair?

If you have noticed that a diamond is loose or that one of the claws is broken, do not continue to wear the ring until it has been repaired.

If you continue to wear the ring, the diamond may fall out.

Do not attempt to re-size any claws or glue the diamond back in place.

Keep the ring in a safe place until it can be looked at.

At The Jewellery Mechanic our manufacturing jewellers can perform claw repair, stone setting and diamond replacement in house.

We will advise you of the recommended repair and the approximate time frame before beginning any work.

Why Do Some Jewellery Repairs Take Longer Than Others?

Some jewellery repairs take longer as they're more complex, requiring alternative materials to be sourced or further investigation into the damage.

A broken gold chain and a heavily worn diamond engagement ring are completely different jobs requiring differing levels of repair.

Even if you bring in two similar looking pieces of jewellery, each repair could be totally different.

At The Jewellery Mechanic we assess them individually and will give you an estimate on how long to allow for their return once the repair is complete.

1. The Extent of the Damage

What appears to be a simple repair can sometimes present its challenges

For instance, a ring may have only one broken claw, but the others may be badly worn

A chain may have a link or two that has snapped, but others nearby may be weakened

Sometimes, a repair takes longer than expected. If further work is necessary, it may add time to the job.

2. The Type of Precious Metal

Gold, silver and platinum have different working characteristics.

Therefore, for repairing jeweller items made of these metals, it is necessary to use different tools and materials, as well as employ various techniques.

In addition, when repairing such items, it may be necessary to use additional precious metal, matching the properties of the original one.

If the required material or detail is not available, it is necessary to order it for the repair.

3. Replacement Stones and Components

If you need to replace something on your jewellery such as a diamond, gemstone, clasp or setting it may add time to the process to source a new component.

For example a small diamond in a row of other stones is going to require that a similar size diamond is found which will fit in with the rest and have a close enough visual match.

Whereas something like a larger centre stone would need more discussion around grade, visual appeal and budget.

The actual task of setting new stones often isn't long, but finding what needs to be set can sometimes mean the overall job takes longer than expected.

4. Previous Repairs and Hidden Damage

Older jewellery can have been repaired numerous times during its life

Previous repairs such as old soldering, worn settings or weakening of the metal can mean that repairs are more complex

This can sometimes be difficult to see without close inspection

If we find other damage we will advise you before proceeding.

5. Antique and Sentimental Jewellery

Older jewellery often requires some additional maintenance.

An antique ring could have delicate settings, unusual construction, or precious metal that has been worn down to a thin layer.

We may also need to preserve the original engravings, decorative elements, or the overall look of the piece.

In such cases, it is essential to focus on choosing a repair that will respect the original jewellery instead of hasty work.

Why Does a Small Repair Sometimes Take Two Weeks?

This is a question which customers quite rightly ask.

If repairing a broken chain simply takes a matter of hours at the bench, why is the overall turnaround time so much larger?

The answer is scheduling.

Your repair needs to be assessed, priced, approved where necessary, scheduled, completed and checked.

There may also be other customer's repairs booked in ahead of yours.

The physically practical portion of your repair (the time spent actually repairing the jewellery) is therefore only one part of the overall process.

At The Jewellery Mechanic, all repairs are carried out in-house by our experienced manufacturing jewellers.

This allows us to manage the work ourselves, although we still need to give realistic estimates of how long things will take based upon the current commitments of the workshop.

Does a Longer Repair Time Mean a Better Repair?

Not necessarily.

A simple repair should not be unnecessarily complicated. Neither should a more involved repair be rushed in order to meet an unrealistic deadline. It is vital that the correct work is done and that the completed jewellery is correctly inspected.

Our policy is to complete your repair in a reasonable time frame while maintaining standards of excellence in the work completed.

How Long Does Jewellery Repair by Post Take?

Jewellery repair by post will normally take a little longer than the repair by the workshop itself due to the time for delivery, assessment and return postage.

However, by availing of a postal jewellery repair service you remove the need to find a local specialist jeweller or make multiple trips to the shop.

Customers from across the UK can post their jewellery directly to our workshop for assessment and repair.

All repairs are completed in-house by our own experienced manufacturing jewellers.

How Does Jewellery Repair by Post Work?

It is a simple process.

Step 1 — Tell Us What Needs Repairing

Contact us via our website and tell us what the problem is.

Photographs can be useful to us so that we can assess the damage and advise you on the best course of action.

Step 2 — Send Your Jewellery to Us

Having advised you on the best way forward, we ask that you securely package your jewellery and send it to us using an appropriate insured & tracked postal service.

We recommend Royal Mail Special Delivery with cover appropriate for the value of your jewellery.

Step 3 — Workshop Assessment

On receipt of your jewellery, we will assess the damage to establish exactly what work is required.

It is not unusual for us to find further wear to the piece that may not have been seen in the photographs.

Step 4 — Repair Quotation & Approval

Having identified the required work, we will then provide you with a quotation, cost and estimated turnaround for the repair.

We will not carry out any extra work without your approval.

Step 5 — Jewellery Repair

Once you have approved the quotation, your jewellery will be scheduled in for repair at one of our manufacturing jewellers

, who will carry out the recommended repair before inspecting and finishing the piece.

Step 6 — Return Delivery

Your jewellery will then be returned to you via an appropriate tracked postal service following completion of the repair works.

Does Postal Delivery Add Much Time?

For UK customers, Royal Mail Special Delivery usually delivers on the next working day, depending on the service you choose and other factors

But keep in mind that you may need a few extra days depending on postal delays, weekends and the workshop assessment process

Therefore, the estimated repair turnaround time should be considered separately from the time your jewellery spends in transit.

Can I Get a Repair Estimate Before Posting My Jewellery?

Yes in many cases the photographs and a description can enable us to give you an indication of the work required.

However, in some instances work can only be assessed when the jewellery is in our possession.

For example, a photograph may show a broken claw, but no indication of a worn setting.

Changes will be explained before any repair is carried out.

Is Jewellery Repair by Post Suitable for Sentimental Jewellery?

It can be, provided the jewellery is properly wrapped and insured.

We understand that an engagement ring, wedding band or inherited necklace may have far more sentimental value than its monetary worth.

So it is important to use a suitable tracked delivery service and make sure the jewellery is protected during transit.

With over 35 years of hands-on jewellery experience, our approach is to treat every repair on an individual basis and explain the work required.

Get Your Jewellery Repaired Without Visiting a Shop

Whether you have a broken gold chain, a ring that needs resizing or an engagement ring with damaged claws, The Jewellery Mechanic can help. Simply get in touch with us, describe your problem, and post your item to us for repair.

Visit The Jewellery Mechanic to enquire about your repair.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jewellery Repair Times

Can Jewellery Be Repaired on the Same Day?

Some simple jewellery repairs can be completed on the same day, depending on the availability of the workshop.

However, not all repairs are eligible for a same-day service.

A broken chain may be simple, but a damaged diamond setting may need extra work.

At The Jewellery Mechanic, we evaluate every repair before giving an estimated time of completion.

How Long Does It Take to Resize a Gold Ring?

A typical gold ring resizing can take anywhere from a week to a month or so, depending on the design and condition of the ring.

Plain wedding bands are usually easier to resize than those with diamonds around the shoulders.

It could take longer if other repairs are needed.

How Long Does It Take to Fix a Broken Necklace?

A simple broken necklace repair can take a few days to two weeks.

How long it takes will be determined by how the chain is constructed, where the break is, and whether any other links are worn.

Hollow or especially delicate chains can also require more careful work

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Missing Diamond?

The replacement of a missing diamond may take about a week to a month or more.

The primary reason is that a new diamond should be found.

In addition, the mounting should also be examined and repaired if needed before the new diamond can be attached.

Why Does My Jeweller Need Two Weeks for a Small Repair?

The repair could require only a short amount of bench time.

But the repairer has to factor in, amongst the repair time, the time taken for evaluation, workshop scheduling, repair work, finishing and quality control.

A jeweller may have other repairs booked ahead of yours.

Can an Antique Ring Take Longer to Repair?

Yes.

Antique jewellery often requires more careful attention to delicate filigree, delicate settings or unusual construction.

In addition, some repairs require special attention to detail or even special parts.

The goal is to return the piece of jewellery to you, wearing as much of its character as possible.

Does Jewellery Repair by Post Take Longer?

All postal repairs require an extra day for collection and postage to and from the workshop

The repair itself will follow the same workshop process as any other repair.

Using a tracked and appropriately insured postal service will help to ensure that your jewellery is safe in transit.

Can I Request an Urgent Jewellery Repair?

Yes. If you have a wedding, anniversary or another important deadline, please explain this when you contact us.

We'll review the work and tell you if the required deadline is realistic or not.

We can't promise that all jobs can be completed urgently.

Will You Tell Me How Long My Repair Will Take?

Yes. Once you have sent us your jewels, we can give you an estimate time for the job, provided that we have identified the work to be done in your jewellery

If there are additional damages found or parts to be replaced, we will make sure you understand the implications of those delays.

How Long Does Jewellery Repair Take? Final Thoughts

The time taken to repair jewellery can often depend on the nature of the damage, the condition of the item and the level of work required.

Something as simple as a broken chain can usually be repaired quite quickly whereas rebuilding a worn diamond setting, or an antique ring may prove to be a much more involved task.

It is also important to note that the amount of time spent working on your jewellery does not always equate to the overall turnaround time.

This can depend on workshop scheduling, any materials required for the repair, finishing and quality control.

We believe our customers should be given a clear breakdown on what will need repairing, the cost and an estimated time frame.

It is our aim to not only repair your treasured pieces to a high standard, but to return them to you in a timely manner so you can enjoy them again.

Get Your Jewellery Repaired by The Jewellery Mechanic

Whether you need a ring that's too small resized, a broken gold chain soldered, a diamond replaced or worn claws repaired, our experienced manufacturing jewellers are here to help.

We offer a UK wide postal jewellery repair service, with all repair work completed in house.

All you have to do is tell us what's wrong with your jewellery, send us a few photographs and we'll explain the next steps.

Contact The Jewellery Mechanic for a jewellery repair quote