Are you wondering how much it costs to fix a gold chain? The average cost of repairing a gold chain is $20, but it can go all the way up to $230 and more depending on the chain type.
There are a few things that determine the overall repair cost, including:
- Karat Content: Gold chains are usually 10k, 14k, or 18k. The karat content determines the type of solder required for repairing.
- Gold Plating: If the broken chain is made of other metal with a gold plating, there will be additional charges for re-plating as the repair work will remove the plating in the broken segment.
- Chain Type: Cable chains, box chains, and ball chains (in short, basic link chains) are easy to repair. If you have a thick chain like a Figaro or a Cuban chain, the cost will increase because it will require more material and labor. Chains with patterns such as rope chains, herringbone chains, and snake chains are very difficult to repair because they leave a noticeable segment of repair.
Different Gold Chain Repair Services and Associated Costs
The cost of fixing a gold chain will vary depending on the type of repair service you need. Here is a quick list of different repair services and their associated costs (average).
Chain Soldering
Though the most basic form of repair, it is still dependent on the chain type. For simple ball or cable chains, the jeweler will identify the broken link and reshape it, and after threading it properly, the jeweler will solder the link shut.
Patterned chains may require trimming off broken portions prior to soldering. This will leave visible repair work. Replacing the link of a patterned chain gives a sturdier and longer-lasting result compared to soldering.
The number of areas that are to be soldered and the chain type determine the price. Compared to a simple chain, a rope chain will cost about $20 extra. For every additional area to be soldered, the price bumps by additional $5 to $10. For thicker chains, prices will go up even further.
Jump Ring Repairing
Jump rings are essential in jewelry making. They are used for attaching chains, clasps, pendants, charms, etc. These are subject to friction and tugging, and if left unsoldered, they can be disastrous. Fixing a gold chain may require soldering a zap ring or completely replacing it.
If soldering is all that is required, the pricing usually starts at $29 on average. Replacement will cost more. Replacement will depend on how badly worn out the jump ring is.
Plating
Gold plated chains and even white gold chains that have a rhodium plating lose their plating over time. This can only be done by a jeweler who will first polish the chain and then place it in a plating tank where rhodium or gold is plated on the chain.
The pricing for this is quite tricky because it is completely dependent on the thickness of the plating required, the length and width of the chain, and so on. Flash plating a regular gold chain costs around $80 on an average. However, a thick chain such as a Cuban chain can cost $200 or more.
Lengthening and/or Shortening
Lengthening a chain can be complicated depending on the chain’s design. This may require custom design work. In scenarios like these, the cost may be as high as $290+. Only the jeweler can give you an exact price.
Shortening, on the other hand, is relatively simple as it requires cutting the chain and then reattaching (by soldering) to achieve the desired length. Thicker chains such as a Cuban or a Figaro will require a little more labor. For regular chains, shortening may cost up to $35, but for the thicker ones, the price can jump by another $20 or more.
Clasp Repairing and Replacement
A clasp will keep your gold chain secured in its place. Over time, a clasp wears out, and may require a repair or a complete replacement. Common clasps like spring ring clasps or lobster clasps come with a small lever, making their construction a fragile one, and hence, more susceptible to wear and tear.
If repair is possible, the jeweler will do so by oiling and bending or rebuilding the broken parts. Repair cost usually ranges between $30 and $40.
If a replacement is needed, the price will depend on the material and clasp type. The more precious the metal, and the more complicated the clasp construction, the higher the price. Replacement cost is usually higher than repair cost.
Chain Replacement
If your gold chain is damaged beyond simple repairs, it may require a complete replacement. In such a scenario, the jeweler may find a chain with similar pattern and dimensions and recreate the look of the original chain.
If the original chain has charms and beads, the jeweler may cut them out and attach them to the replacement chain. The replacement price will depend on the gold chain you have. Its dimensions, size, etc. will also determine the price. Thus, expect a custom price.
A Pricing Recap Table
Gold Chain Soldering | Usually $20 average (costs extra for patterned chains like rope chains). |
|---|---|
Jump Ring Repairing/Replacement | Starts at $29 for repairing. Replacements are more expensive. |
Plating | Average is $80 (more for thicker and longer chains). |
Lengthening | Depending on design work needed, the cost may start at $290. |
Shortening | Average $35 (may cost more for thicker chains). |
Clasp Repairing/Replacement | Average $30-$40 (more for replacement). |
Chain Replacement | Custom pricing depending on the original chain. |
Can a Jeweler Fix a Broken Gold Chain?
Yes, a jeweler can do that. Repair can involve soldering a broken link, removing the broken link entirely, or adding a new link. It may also involve clasp repair or replacement, re-plating, etc.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a 14K Gold Chain?
The cost of fixing a 14k gold chain depends on the type of repair required. A simple soldering will attract an average cost of $20. Replacements may cost more.
Can You Super Glue a Gold Chain?
It is not recommended, but it can be done. You need to find a super glue that doesn’t contain any solvent that will evaporate over time. If the solvent evaporates, the chain will break again. We recommend a more permanent solution through the professional repair services of a jeweler.
What Can Damage a Gold Chain?
Gold jewelry is made by alloying gold with other metals. This is because 24k gold is too soft to be used for making jewelry. Gold is inert, but the other metals used may be damaged when they meet chlorine and bleach (for example, in hot tubs and pools). Over time, you may notice weakened solder joints, cracks, etc.
Can You Sleep in a Gold Chain?
We never recommend doing that. Constant contact with your skin may cause skin irritation. Apart from that, you may break the chain accidentally, which may then require professional repair, thereby causing unwanted expenses.
Conclusion
So, how much does it cost to fix a gold chain? The average cost is between $20 and $230, but depending on the type of chain and the type of repair work needed, the price can exceed $290. Giving an exact price is practically impossible. You must consult a professional jeweler to get the true estimate based on the extent of damage.
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Sources
- GIA. REPAIR AND SETTING. https://www.gia.edu/gem-education/course-jewelry-repair-setting-intermediate-carlsbad
- Penn Foster. Jewelry Design and Repair. https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/jewelry-design-and-repair-career-diploma
