May 18, 2020
Bangles are beloved pieces of jewelry that come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, but they can be quite tricky to fix! From hinges to stones, here’s what you need to know about bangle repair services.
Bangle Styles
Bangles come in different styles, so we’ve listed the most common types for your reference. This is important to know as it affects what kind of repair you need for your damaged bangle.
- Closed Bangles: This type of bangle is completely closed, and the only way to get it on your hand is to slide it on. Some of these bangles are often hollow, especially if they’re made from solid gold in order to reduce the weight and price.
A stainless steel closed bangle we sized down for a customer.
- Latch Bangles: These bangles open and close by locking shut at one area, either with a box clasp or a branded clasp design such as Pandora bangles.
A designer bangle before gold plating.
- Open Bangles: Also known as cuff, open bangles have a cut that allows you to bend and adjust the cuff to open and close. There are no hinge mechanisms for these items.
- Hinge/Tension Bangles: Similar to the open bangle, a hinge/tension bangle opens up and closes thanks to a specific type of hinge that relies on tension in order to maintain its closed state around your wrist.
Common Bangle Repairs
The previous bangle types all have their own specific repair services due to the differences in structure. Here is a list of the most common bangle repairs:
- Hinge Repair: Hinge repair is done on a case by case basis as some hinges are extremely difficult to repair, and may even need a completely new replacement. If the jeweler can work with the item, they tighten the hinge and reset any components that have begun to move out from constant wear.
- Clasp Repair: If the bangle’s clasp or latch is broken, the jeweler simply has to solder and replace any missing components. For figure-eight security latches, the jeweler quickly lasers the figure eight back on and tests to see if it snaps back and forth properly.
- Soldering: For broken, cut bangles, the jeweler simply solders the two ends back together and rounds out the bracelet. Hollow bangles are difficult to repair and will flatten at any areas where they’re soldered.
- Sizing: Bangles are sizable on a case by case basis. The jeweler measures the current diameter, cuts the bangle, and removes material from the bangle until it fits the desired diameter. Then the bangle is soldered shut and polished off. Keep in mind that hollow bangles are prone to flattening and bangles with stones may not be sizable.
- Stone Setting: Depending on the setting style, the jeweler simply bends the setting metal back and sets the stone, then closing over it with the setting. If you do not have the stone, the jeweler can help you source a new one at additional cost.
Now you’re up to date on bangle repair! If you have something you’d like to service, comment below and we’ll help you get started.
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