4 Signs of Damaged Prongs on a Ring
Table of Contents:
- Signs of Damaged Ring Prongs
- Broken Prong Repair Options
- Why is Timely Prong Repair Important?
- Ring Maintenance Tips
We do what we can to protect our most valuable jewelry pieces, but sometimes damage happens. One of the most common jewelry repairs is worn prongs on rings. As you go about your daily life, prongs break, get bumped, or wear down over time.
Prongs are essential for holding diamonds and gemstones in place, so it’s good to know the signs of damage to prevent the possibility of loss. Keep reading to learn how to detect signs of prong damage and your options for repair in Orange County.
Signs of Damaged Prongs
To detect signs of damage, you’ll need to know the style of prongs on your ring. Rings typically have four to six-prong settings.
Prongs come in a variety of styles and shapes. The tip of the prongs can be shaped round, claw, or split. Familiarize yourself with the type of prongs on your ring so you can detect when one is missing or losing its shape.
Examine your rings for signs of damage once every 6 months. You can inspect it at home using a loupe or magnifying glass or bring it to a jeweler for a professional examination. During inspection, examine the prongs and stone(s) for the following warning signs.
Missing prongs
Missing prongs are the most apparent sign of ring damage. Sometimes, one of the prongs breaks off entirely or just at the tip. If you notice a broken prong on your diamond ring, stop wearing it immediately. A jeweler can repair it to prevent the diamond or gemstone from falling out.
Bent prongs
With normal daily wear, your ring may bump against hard surfaces such as tables, doors, and chairs, causing the prongs to bend and defer from their original shape. When this happens, the prong must be bent back into position to ensure it properly secures the diamond or gemstone.
Worn prongs
The metal on your ring prongs can wear down over time, causing them to take on a flattened or thin shape. Worn-down prongs will have a weaker grip than they did originally. Jewelers can increase the strength of the prong by building up the metal or adding a new tip.
Loose diamond
A loose diamond is another key sign of ring-prong damage. If you notice your diamond rattling around or wobbling as you move your hand, one or more of the prongs is likely damaged. Check for loose diamonds by bringing your ring to your ear and shaking it. If you hear a rattling noise, it’s a tell-tale sign of a loose diamond.
Broken Prong Repair Options
If you discover damage to your ring, stop wearing it immediately and bring it to Jeweler’s Touch for repair. We’ll evaluate the ring and thoroughly inspect it to determine the type of damage and repairs needed.
The most common prong repairs for diamond rings include:
- Re-shaping bent prongs
- Re-tipping prongs
- Re-building prongs
- Replacing the entire prong
In extreme cases, we may recommend replacing the setting completely. This is done when repairing the setting is more costly than replacing it. We can reset your diamond in an identical or similar setting, or elevate your ring with a new custom design.
Why is Timely Prong Repair Important?
Prongs securely hold the Diamonds and gemstones in place. Repair damaged ring prongs as soon as you notice them. When they become damaged, the stone can fall out entirely. If you continue wearing your ring, you risk losing your precious gemstone or diamond.
Addressing prong damage early on can help save you money. The longer you put off repairing your ring, the more likely additional damage can occur, resulting in higher repair bills. If you ignore prong damage long enough, you may lose the stone and need to replace the most valuable piece of your ring.
Inspect your ring yourself or bring it in for a professional inspection. Our certified jewelers understand the sentimental value of your jewelry pieces and have the tools and expertise to identify signs of damage before it happens. We’ll provide a complete examination and include a complimentary ring cleaning.
Ring Maintenance Tips
Along with professional and at-home inspections, you can protect your ring with regular maintenance, including:
- Bi-annual self-inspecting and cleaning
- Store your ring securely when you’re not wearing it
- Avoid activities that incur heavy wear, bumping or hitting your ring while wearing it
- Avoid harsh chemicals
- Schedule annual professional maintenance visits
Visit Jeweler’s Touch for Ring Repairs
Jeweler’s Touch is here for all your jewelry repair needs. When you bring in your broken ring, one of our experts will conduct a complimentary inspection, discuss your repair options, and provide an up-front quote.
Most repairs take within three to five days to complete, with same-day service available for a fee. After that, you’ll be covered by a one-year warranty, so you can rest easy knowing your ring is protected.
For preventative maintenance, stop by Jeweler’s Touch anytime we will clean and inspect your ring for free.
We’ve been Orange County’s trusted full-service jeweler since 1992, with our team of expert goldsmiths, gemologists, and diamontologists. We offer extensive services, including custom jewelry design, repairs, appraisals, and more. Call us or visit our store in Brea to book your appointment today.