How To Fix A Broken Wedding Band

Wedding bands are often imbued with sentimental value, so it can be distressing when they break. However, this is not an uncommon occurrence, and most breaks can be repaired. The cost of repair depends on the type of metal, the extent of the damage, and the labour and materials required. For example, a simple crack in a sterling silver ring can be fixed for as little as $35, whereas a gold ring with a large cut in the band can cost upwards of $45 to repair. If the ring's entire metal structure is failing, a half or full-shank replacement is recommended, which starts at $120. Repairs can be performed at home for simple fixes, but for more complex issues, it is best to consult a local jeweller.

Ring resizing may be the cause of cracking

Additionally, the process of resizing itself can introduce weak spots in the ring. The solders used to connect two parts of the ring during resizing are often not as strong as the original cast metal. As a result, connection points can become weak spots that are more prone to cracking or breakage.

To prevent cracking, it is recommended to have a ring that fits snugly. If a ring is too large, resizing it to a smaller size can help reduce the stress on the band and minimise the chances of cracking.

Furthermore, the type of metal used in the ring also plays a role in its susceptibility to cracking. Softer metals like yellow gold are more likely to crack or break over time, whereas more durable metals like platinum are less prone to showing signs of wear and tend to last longer.

Manufacturing issues can cause cracking

Manufacturing issues can cause a wedding band to crack. Jewellery making is a delicate process, similar to baking; if the consistency of the metal is off or the casting is poorly done, these mistakes will affect the structure of the ring.

For example, cracks can appear as a result of bad casting and porosity—tiny air bubbles that were trapped in the metal during the casting process. If the ring has been resized, especially by an amateur, this can also contribute to cracking. The resizing process involves cutting into the ring, adding or removing metal, and bending it back into shape. If any stage of this process is done incorrectly, the ring will be weakened at the area of work.

If you have a cracked ring, it's important to take it to a jeweller to get it repaired. The repair cost will depend on several factors, including the type of metal, the extent of the damage, and the labour and materials required. For example, sterling silver is cheap and easy to mend, whereas gold and platinum are more expensive because they require a matching type of wire or solder that contains gold or platinum content. The labour cost is also higher for platinum because it is more difficult to work with.

The extent of the damage is the main factor that determines the repair cost. If it's a minor fracture, it can be fixed with solder at a starting price of $35. If it's an actual cut, it'll cost $45 and upwards. If the ring's entire metal structure is failing, the jeweller may recommend a half or full-shank replacement, which involves replacing the entire band. This repair starts at a minimum of $120 and is considered expensive but worthwhile.

In some cases, the stones in the ring may need to be unset and reset to avoid any damage during the repair. The labour for this will also be integrated into the overall repair cost.

Repairs can be done at home or by a jeweller

For more complex repairs, such as a small fracture or a completely broken ring, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional jeweller. They can solder and file the pieces back together, ensuring a durable repair. When choosing a jeweller, it is ideal to return to the original store or jeweller from which the ring was purchased. However, large chains like Kay Jewelers will also perform repairs regardless of where the ring was bought.

The cost of repairing a cracked ring will depend on several factors, including the type of metal, the extent of the damage, and the labour and materials required. For example, sterling silver is generally cheaper and easier to repair than gold or platinum, which require matching types of wire or solder. Minor fractures can be soldered for as little as $35, while actual cuts may start at $45. If the ring's metal structure is failing, a half or full-shank replacement is recommended, which starts at $120.

Additionally, the labour and materials required can vary depending on the ring's design and the work needed. For instance, a simple crack may only need a bit of metal solder, while a full or half-shank replacement will require a new band. In some cases, stones may need to be unset and reset to avoid damage during the repair process, which will also impact the overall cost.

It is always a good idea to get multiple estimates from different jewellers to compare prices and find the best option for your specific situation.

Metal type affects repair cost

The type of metal used in a wedding band plays a significant role in determining the repair cost. While some metals are easily repairable, others can be more challenging and expensive to fix.

Sterling silver, for instance, is relatively cheap and easy to mend. On the other hand, gold and platinum repairs are more costly due to the need for matching wire or solder with gold or platinum content. Platinum, in particular, is more difficult to work with, further increasing the labour cost.

The extent of the damage also influences the repair cost. A simple fracture can be fixed with solder for as little as $35, while a full cut may cost $45 or more. If the ring's metal structure is failing, a half or full-shank replacement is recommended, starting at $120.

Additionally, the labour and materials required can vary depending on the ring's design and the work needed. For instance, a full or half-shank replacement will require a new band, and the metal weight will be included in the price. In some cases, stones may need to be unset and reset to avoid damage during the repair process, adding to the overall labour cost.

The thickness and assembly work needed also impact the repair cost. For example, a sterling silver half-shank repair starts at $60 for a minimum 3mm width, while gold will cost 50% more.

When it comes to a full shank replacement, the metal type, width, and labour will be the main factors in determining the final price. A gold full shank replacement typically starts at $180 and increases with karat content and width.

The extent of damage affects repair cost

The cost of repairing a wedding band depends on the extent of the damage. If the ring has a small fracture, it can be fixed with solder at a starting price of $35. If the band is cut, the repair will cost $45 or more. If the ring's entire metal structure is failing, a half or full-shank replacement is recommended, which starts at $120.

The type of metal used in the ring also affects the repair cost. For example, sterling silver is cheap and easy to mend, while gold and platinum are more expensive because they require a matching type of wire or solder. Additionally, platinum is more challenging to work with, resulting in higher labour costs.

The labour and materials required for the repair depend on the ring's design and the work needed. For instance, a simple crack may only need a bit of metal solder, while a full or half-shank replacement will require a new band. In some cases, stones may need to be unset and reset to avoid damage during the repair process, adding to the overall cost.

The thickness and width of the shank also influence the repair cost. A sterling silver half-shank repair starts at $60 for a minimum width of 3mm, while gold will cost 50% more. The thicker the shank, the higher the price.

A full shank replacement involves replacing half of the ring, so metal type, width, and labour will be considered in the final price. A gold full shank replacement typically starts at $180 and increases with karat content and width.

Frequently asked questions