How to Repair a Gold Ring
Whether you want to repair a favorite ring or would like to fix a find from a bargain estate sale, it can be an easy process. Provided that the ring does not have a stone, doing the repair yourself is cheaper than taking it to a jewelry repair shop, and the results are comparable. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Gloves
- Acetylene, propane or oxygen torch
- Channel locks or vise grips
- Scissors
- Fine metal file
- Fine sandpaper
- Toothpicks
- Gold solder (1dwt)
- Liquid flux
Instructions
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If there is old solder on the ring, gently remove it with the sandpaper and file. Move the file back and forth to smooth any rough edges. Ensure that the ring fits your finger; if it's too big, file it down until the size is right for you.
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2
Close the ring with the channel locks or vise grips, with the shank facing the outside of the grips. Make sure there are no visible gaps. To avoid scratching the outside of the ring, you may want to file the vise grips. Though the ring should be secured tightly, make sure it isn't being bent by the grips.
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3
Cut a very small piece of solder with the scissors; don't use extra, because you'll only end up filing it off. Put a small amount of liquid flux on the inside of the joint. With a wet toothpick, pick up the solder and place it on top of the flux.
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4
Using gloved hands, start the torch. You will be using only the tip of the flame. Hold the vise grips still, and move the flame around the ring's shank continuously, until the solder melts into the joint. Don't point the flame directly at the joint or solder; you don't want the ring to melt or overheat. Direct the flame underneath the ring, never from the top.
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Let the ring cool completely once the solder is melted. After it's cooled, check to be sure that the new joint is strong and tight.
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File down the rough edges with the sandpaper and file; you will likely need to smooth out the inside and outside of the ring. Shape the ring with the file, and gently buff out scratches with the sandpaper.
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Tips & Warnings
When buying solder, get a karat lower than that of the ring. For example, if the ring is 18 karat, get a 14 karat solder. This keeps the ring from melting.
Be careful when using a torch, and don't attempt this type of repair if you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with using a torch. Don't forget your gloves. The torch will be very hot, and it is easy to burn yourself without even coming in contact with the flame.
Resources
- Photo Credit www.smartbride.com.au
