Most broken gold chains can be fixed: a snapped link can be soldered closed, a worn or broken clasp can be replaced, and a kinked section can often be straightened. Bring the chain, every piece that fell off and the clasp if you have it, and a jeweler can tell you what the repair will take.
What kinds of chain damage can be repaired?
-
A single broken link. The most common repair. The link is closed and soldered so it is solid again.
-
A broken or weak clasp. Lobster clasps and spring rings wear out. They can usually be swapped for a new one that matches the karat.
-
A stretched or open jump ring. The small ring that connects the clasp to the chain. Often the real reason a chain fell off.
-
Kinks. Many kinks in solid chains can be worked out by hand.
-
Shortening. A chain can often be shortened and a new clasp attached.
-
Bent or broken nameplate letters or pendant bails, depending on the damage.
What is harder or sometimes not worth fixing?
Some damage is trickier. That does not mean no, but it means the piece needs a closer look.
| Problem |
Why it is tricky |
| Crushed hollow chain |
Hollow links dent and split; a dent can be hard to reverse |
| Many breaks in one chain |
Usually means the metal is worn thin overall |
| Missing sections |
Matching links may need to be sourced or made |
| Gold-plated chains |
Heat from soldering can damage plating |
| Very fine chains under 1 mm |
Delicate work; some will break again near the repair |
Is it a solid or hollow chain?
This matters for repair. Solid links are metal all the way through and take repairs well. Hollow links are thin tubes of gold, lighter and more affordable but easier to dent. Check the product details if you bought it from us, since each listing shows the metal and weight. If you are unsure, a hollow chain usually feels light for its width and can show small dents. Solid styles like Cuban, Franco, rope and Figaro come in both, so it is worth asking.
What should you bring to the jeweler?
-
The whole chain, even if it is in two or more pieces.
-
Every loose bit: the clasp, jump rings, any links that fell off and the pendant if there was one.
-
A small bag or envelope. Put the pieces in it right away so nothing gets lost.
-
Any details you know: the karat, where it was bought, and whether it has been repaired before.
-
How you want to wear it. If you want it shorter, a stronger clasp or a different length, say so now.
Do not try to close a broken link with pliers or glue. A link that is pinched shut will open again, and glue makes the proper repair harder.
How can you keep a chain from breaking again?
- Take it off before sleep, the gym and contact sports.
- Do not tug a chain over your head with the clasp closed.
- Check the clasp and jump ring every few weeks for wear.
- Store it fastened and separate. See how to store jewelry so chains don't tangle.
- Match the chain to the pendant. A heavy pendant needs a thicker chain.
Visit or text us
Chain repair is done in store. Bring your piece to 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800 for details and pricing. We are open 7 days. If it is time for a new one, browse our gold chains, including Cuban chains.
Broken Chain? What Can Be Fixed and What to Bring In
Most broken gold chains can be fixed: a snapped link can be soldered closed, a worn or broken clasp can be replaced, and a kinked section can often be straightened. Bring the chain, every piece that fell off and the clasp if you have it, and a jeweler can tell you what the repair will take.
What kinds of chain damage can be repaired?
What is harder or sometimes not worth fixing?
Some damage is trickier. That does not mean no, but it means the piece needs a closer look.
Is it a solid or hollow chain?
This matters for repair. Solid links are metal all the way through and take repairs well. Hollow links are thin tubes of gold, lighter and more affordable but easier to dent. Check the product details if you bought it from us, since each listing shows the metal and weight. If you are unsure, a hollow chain usually feels light for its width and can show small dents. Solid styles like Cuban, Franco, rope and Figaro come in both, so it is worth asking.
What should you bring to the jeweler?
Do not try to close a broken link with pliers or glue. A link that is pinched shut will open again, and glue makes the proper repair harder.
How can you keep a chain from breaking again?
Visit or text us
Chain repair is done in store. Bring your piece to 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800 for details and pricing. We are open 7 days. If it is time for a new one, browse our gold chains, including Cuban chains.