Jewellery repairing comes in a lot of forms. You might have a ring too loose or too tight. You can also have a bracelet with a broken clasp. Or something serious like a missing stone and broken parts or a piece of heirloom jewellery.
What are the different types of jewellery repairing services available?
The level and types of repairing services vary from store to store. However, the most common jewellery repairing includes:
- Cleaning and polishing
- Clasp or chain repair
- Jewellery resizing
- Gemstone replacement
- Soldering
- Hinge repair
- Stone tightening
While searching for jewellery repairing in London, you will come across hundreds of options. However, trusting anyone with your precious items isn’t a wise decision. You need an experienced, trusted, and reliable jewellery repair shop. You will also want something that goes with your vibe.
But, how to choose the right jewellery repair shop?
Well, from our years of experience, we have gathered a few tips of the trade.
Ask for a detailed estimate
There is no wrong in getting a few estimates for your repair work. Most estimates for jewellery repair are free of cost. Ambiguity while dealing with a precious item isn’t a good indication.
So, if the store provides a fairly detailed estimate, you know they do their homework well. This is an indication of transparency and honesty, which is a primary factor for jewellery stores.
Now, keep in mind that sometimes estimates may differ a little bit depending on the stone’s quality, changes at the last minute, etc. But that should stay too ‘little’. You cannot trust a jeweller who gives hundreds of pounds bill for a simple repairing job.
Do not consider the quotes always
While we love to get some good discounts on deals, cheap isn’t the best choice always. Jewellery repairing from Hatton Garden or any popular place in London will take a certain amount of money. And you should be prepared for that.
You can, of course, negotiate to get a good deal. However, if the estimate is significantly lower than what you expected, it might cost you more in the long run. The jewellers might be incompetent resulting in a poor job. This will cost more in the future. Go with expert knowledge, years of experience and proper tools instead.
Get confirmation of insurance
In case of burglary or theft, you need to make sure that your jewellery is insured while it’s in the shop’s possession. It is a smart practice of the business. Usually, for this type of insurance, they provide a detailed description and picture of your items.
Keep as many pictures as you can, especially if it is bespoke jewellery. In the case of an accident, they can replace the value properly.
Check out their customer service
Just as getting a reliable jewellery repairing job is important, getting good customer service is also essential. For a major repairing job, you may need to have certain discussions. The representatives should also listen to your requirements carefully.
The best way to know about a store’s customer service is through customer reviews. Reputed stores like Prestige Valuations give at-home services. They also have experts who will discuss your requirements at length.
Talk about the time of delivery
Different jewellery repairs need different times to complete. However, if you are in hurry, we suggest going to local jewellery stores. They will do the job in a shorter time frame.
Sometimes for minor repairs, it can be done within a day or two. For major repairs like a stone replacement, it will take one or two weeks, depending on the rarity of the stone.
Talk about the date of deliveries prior to placing the order. Some shops also offer time-sensitive premium services.
Overall being cautious is necessary when choosing a jewellery repairing store in London. You can also ask to see their certificates and necessary documents for your assurance.
We hope that these tips will help to choose the correct jewellery repair shop next time.
