Did you recently inherit an antique heirloom piece? Even though your new-to-you investment may seem like it's in perfect condition, take a look at what you need to know about the when's, why's, and how's of jewelry repair services.

When Do You Need a Repair Service?

There are obvious reasons for repairing jewelry. A broken clasp, a loose gemstone setting prong, scratches, or a severely twisted chain are all noticeable issues you'll need to repair. Along with obvious damage or signs of wear, you may also need a jewelry service if you need to re-size a ring, change a setting, or replace a difficult-to-operate closure.

Why Choose a Professional Repair Service?

A do-it-yourself approach is not something to try with heirloom antiques. Even though a DIY fix might seem like a money-saving option, it could end up costing you in additional repair services. Failure to repair the item correctly could damage your necklace, ring, bracelet, or other bauble.

Unlike a new store-bought item, an antique is irreplaceable. This means you need to handle your antique with extreme care. Instead of a DIY repair, leave this job to the professional. An expert jeweler has the training, techniques, and equipment to repair your heirloom items the right way the first time.

How Should You Choose a Professional Service

If you bought a new ring or necklace you might take it back to the place of purchase for a repair. But you don't have that option with a decades' old (or older) heirloom. Even though you can't bring the jewelry back to the jeweler who made or sold the item, you can find a local professional to repair it.

There are plenty of jewelers to choose from for a repair. But that doesn't mean every jeweler is qualified to fix a complex or expensive antique. To find a jeweler who you can trust to repair your heirloom item, start with references.

Ask friends, family, or co-workers for the names of jewelers they've used for similar repairs. If you don't know anyone who has used a repair service, talk to a few different jewelers. A repair professional should provide you with references (from past or present customers) or photos of their work.

When you do find a jeweler who you trust, ask for an estimate before you hand over your heirloom for a repair. A written quote should outline the repair, the cost of labor, and the price of parts.

For more information, contact a company like American Jewelers.