Claws are small but critical. Gradual wear can reduce the amount of metal holding a stone long before the problem is obvious.
When this repair may be needed
- A claw catches on clothing
- One claw looks shorter than the others
- A stone clicks or moves
- A claw is cracked, bent or missing
How the repair is assessed
Each claw and the surrounding setting should be assessed together. Retipping, rebuilding or a more extensive setting repair may be appropriate depending on remaining metal and wear.
What can affect the work required?
Metal type, construction, previous repairs, stone settings, wear, access to the damaged area and the finish required can all change the correct repair method. Photographs are useful for an initial assessment, but some pieces need physical inspection before a firm quotation is possible.
Care after repair
Stop wearing the piece if the stone moves. Catching claws should be assessed before they wear further or snag hard enough to distort the setting.
Start with an assessment
If you have a piece that may need claw & prong repair, send clear photographs and describe what has happened. We will use those details to identify the most appropriate next step.