Your Vintage Costume Jewelry Repair Experts
I guess you could say that the love of costume jewelry is in my blood. As a girl, I remember going to my Grandmother’s house in Iowa, and she would always pull out her box full of beads. Oh, how my sister and I loved to play with them! We were completely fascinated and would play with them for hours, so it’s not surprising that my sister and I both are in the vintage costume jewelry business.
In my office, I have two sets of vintage costume jewelry in shadow boxes– one from my Grandmother and one from my husband’s Grandmother. These aren't just decorations, they are links to the past and they remind me of why I love doing repairs and restorations: to maintain and preserve the beauty of each piece for the next generation. Though I repair all kinds of costume pieces, vintage jewelry captured my heart and my imagination. These pieces are not just pretty sparkly things to me, they are pieces of history, and that’s how I treat each piece that comes to me with the respect and great care they deserve. ~ Melissa
In my office, I have two sets of vintage costume jewelry in shadow boxes– one from my Grandmother and one from my husband’s Grandmother. These aren't just decorations, they are links to the past and they remind me of why I love doing repairs and restorations: to maintain and preserve the beauty of each piece for the next generation. Though I repair all kinds of costume pieces, vintage jewelry captured my heart and my imagination. These pieces are not just pretty sparkly things to me, they are pieces of history, and that’s how I treat each piece that comes to me with the respect and great care they deserve. ~ Melissa
Check out our interiew ESTATES IN TIME
We specialize in repairing and restoring vintage costume jewelry and accessories including:
Stone Removal
Stone Setting
Cleaning
Verdigris Removal
Repairing Clasps, Pin Stems, and Many Other Structural Repairs
Re-stringing, Including Knotting, and Chain Repairs
Enameling (repainting pieces)
Complete Restoration
Rhinestone Design
Hard to Find and Unique Stone Replacement
Welding and Soldering
Stone Removal
Stone Setting
Cleaning
Verdigris Removal
Repairing Clasps, Pin Stems, and Many Other Structural Repairs
Re-stringing, Including Knotting, and Chain Repairs
Enameling (repainting pieces)
Complete Restoration
Rhinestone Design
Hard to Find and Unique Stone Replacement
Welding and Soldering
Complete Restoration
We restored this 1940's Trifari Flying Eagle brooch to like new condition including, stone replacement, enameling, and cleaning.
Enameling
For this piece most of the enamel paint was missing. We researched and was able to find a picture of original piece which we used as a reference to restore to like original condition
Stone Removal & Replacement
For this Staret piece we were able to locate vintage new old stock to make the repairs. On particular piece were also able to references in order to correct the incorrectly installed stones and make the piece original again.
Welding & Soldering
Because most costume jewelry was never meant to last beyond a season or two, the construction was not very sturdy leading to broken pin mechanisms, earring backs that snapped off, and other structural issues. That's why welding and soldering is our 2nd most requested service. It is a very difficult repair as the metals that were used to make the pieces varied greatly. We have to research into what the piece might have been made from and then make the determination as to the best way to resecure the broken piece.
DUE TO OUR CHRISTIAN BELIEFS AND VALUES, WE RESPECTFULLY DECLINE TO WORK ON ANY PIECE THAT LOOKS LIKE OR RELATED TO THE DEVIL, NON-CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS SYMBOL, AND ASTROLOGY RELATED ITEMS.
All repair packages MUST be sent with the completed repair form and your email address or your repair(s) will be delayed.
REPAIR REQUEST PROCEDURE
- Fill out Repair Request form.
- Make sure to fill in all the requested information. (please be as specific as possible).
- Number each piece with a tag or by placing it in a bag with the same number as the line item on the request form so we know which piece you are referring to based on your description.
- Mark the stones you want changed out with marker or some other indicator so we make sure to remove the correct stone(s).
- If only 1 earring needs repaired, please send the pair so we can compare.
- Either email the completed form and include it with your package.
- Ship your package to the following address:
TJRCo
Attn: Melissa Schultz
8651 Hwy. N Suite 100 Box 2001
Lake St. Louis, MO 63367
Attn: Melissa Schultz
8651 Hwy. N Suite 100 Box 2001
Lake St. Louis, MO 63367
We recommend you use TJRCo rather than company name spelled out on your address label (security reasons).
Be sure to insure your package for the value you place on the items.
Once We Receive Your Package
Be sure to insure your package for the value you place on the items.
Once We Receive Your Package
- We will send you an email that we have received package.
- We will go through your items and assess each piece.
- We will fill in the estimated repair cost part of the form and email it back to you.
- Email us with which items you want to proceed with repairing.
- Once we have your approval, we will begin the repairs.
- After the repairs completed, we will send you an email letting you know we are done.
- You will then receive an email from PAYPAL notifying you of amount due.
- Follow link and make your payment with PAYPAL or with a major credit card of your choice.
- Once we receive notice of payment received, we will then package and ship your repaired items.
- Our standard insurance coverage is $100. Please inform us, on the repair form insurance box if you want additional coverage.
- You will receive email from the shipping company with the tracking information.
Complete printed form and include with your repairs. By sending your repairs in, you ARE agreeing to our terms and conditions.
If we receive an incomplete repair request, additional charges can be applied for us to process your repair request.
LIABILITY NOTICE
The pieces we are repairing are quite old and even though we take great care to handle the piece, accidents do happen. We will not be liable for such damages. If we get a piece in which we feel repairing will cause more damage, we reserve the right to not repair the piece and return the
piece to you. We will contact you to discuss any issues we might have repairing a piece before we proceed any further.
The pieces we are repairing are quite old and even though we take great care to handle the piece, accidents do happen. We will not be liable for such damages. If we get a piece in which we feel repairing will cause more damage, we reserve the right to not repair the piece and return the
piece to you. We will contact you to discuss any issues we might have repairing a piece before we proceed any further.
FEE STRUCTURE
- We charge $5.00 per piece to assess the item, determine the repairs needed, and communicate our recommendation to you.
- If you decide NOT to proceed with repairs, you will only be assessed the $5.00 per piece fee.
- Because each piece in unique, we cannot provide an estimate without evaluating the piece.
- If you have an unusual piece, stone, or repair needed, please email a picture before sending to ensure repair can be made.
- If you proceed with work the $5.00 fee will be applied to the repair cost of the item.
- This credit is only for the piece being repaired. Example, if you send us 3 pieces and are charged an initial $15 and only get 1 of the 3 pieces repaired; only $5.00 will be applied to the repair cost, not the full $15 fee.
- You will receive an estimated for the total cost of all repairs.
- Once you have approved the work we will proceed.
- All processing is gone through PAYPAL account services.
- You will receive a final invoice via PAYPAL. You can pay with PAYPAL or major credit card.
- Once you have paid for repairs in full, we will ship your item(s) out.
- Payment is expected within 5 days of invoicing.
REFUNDS/ABANDONDED PIECES
- If we have not received payment for repaired pieces within 30 days, the piece will become property of The Jewelry Repair Company and all right of possession is forfeited.
- If you ship us a piece and we try to contact you with questions/estimates and do no hear from you within 30 days, the piece(s) will become property of The Jewelry Repair Company.
- You must notify us within 5 days of any problems with your repaired items.
GENERAL POLICIES
- We do not share any of your information to any third party.
- We do NOT offer stone matching services or provide stone information.
- Stone stock and supplies are for repairs only and not for sale.
- We are not responsible for repair packages in transit.
- Any claim must be done through your delivery service.
- We highly recommend additional insurance when shipping your piece(s).
- If a piece(s) is/are extremely valuable, we recommend adding the signature confirmation service both ways.
Any questions please contact us at:
info@jewelryrepaircompany.com
info@jewelryrepaircompany.com
Can my vintage piece be fixed?
In 95% of cases, the answer is yes! We stock a huge inventory of NOS (new old stock) vintage Swarovski, Czech, French, and German stones, some Thermoset, and fruit salad stones, along with many shades and sizes of pearls, chain, and vintage findings. If you wish to know more specifically if we can fix one of your items, a couple of photos help us to see the piece and the repair needed and can give you a more accurate assessment.
In 95% of cases, the answer is yes! We stock a huge inventory of NOS (new old stock) vintage Swarovski, Czech, French, and German stones, some Thermoset, and fruit salad stones, along with many shades and sizes of pearls, chain, and vintage findings. If you wish to know more specifically if we can fix one of your items, a couple of photos help us to see the piece and the repair needed and can give you a more accurate assessment.
Do you buy jewelry?
Yes, I do! I like to buy “lots” of jewelry, pieces and such that I use in repairs. I also buy individual pieces that need a little work. Contact us if you are interested in selling.
Yes, I do! I like to buy “lots” of jewelry, pieces and such that I use in repairs. I also buy individual pieces that need a little work. Contact us if you are interested in selling.
Do you only work on jewelry or can you fix other items as well?
We have done repairs and restorations on all sorts of items including purses, hats, vintage cigarette holders, compacts, and other vanity type items. Please contact us with photos if you have a specific item you need repaired.
We have done repairs and restorations on all sorts of items including purses, hats, vintage cigarette holders, compacts, and other vanity type items. Please contact us with photos if you have a specific item you need repaired.
Do you only work on jewelry or can you fix other items as well?
We have done repairs and restorations on all sorts of items including purses, hats, vintage cigarette holders, compacts, and other vanity type items. Please contact us with photos if you have a specific item you need repaired.
We have done repairs and restorations on all sorts of items including purses, hats, vintage cigarette holders, compacts, and other vanity type items. Please contact us with photos if you have a specific item you need repaired.
Do you have a price list?
All repairs start at $5.00. Because each piece is unique and needs different things, it is nearly impossible to have a set price list. I do, however, provide you with an estimate of the cost to do each piece before I begin work. That way, you can decide if it’s worth the money or not and you’re not stuck with an unexpected high bill at end. Usually, my estimates are right on. Only occasionally do the expenses go over that number, but if they do, I always stop the work and contact to discuss numbers and options.
Costs are based on materials/parts and labor. For example, if a piece requires a more expensive stone, then naturally, it will be more to repair it than something with a less expensive stone. Or, in the instance of restringing, doing a knotted pearl necklace will be more expensive that a regular strung necklace because it is more laborious and requires a lot more time. Same thing with enameling; redoing a piece with 10 different colors is going to be higher than redoing a piece with just 1 color.
If you’re not sure about something, you are welcome to send me a good photo and I will do my best to give you a good “ballpark” estimate from that.
All repairs start at $5.00. Because each piece is unique and needs different things, it is nearly impossible to have a set price list. I do, however, provide you with an estimate of the cost to do each piece before I begin work. That way, you can decide if it’s worth the money or not and you’re not stuck with an unexpected high bill at end. Usually, my estimates are right on. Only occasionally do the expenses go over that number, but if they do, I always stop the work and contact to discuss numbers and options.
Costs are based on materials/parts and labor. For example, if a piece requires a more expensive stone, then naturally, it will be more to repair it than something with a less expensive stone. Or, in the instance of restringing, doing a knotted pearl necklace will be more expensive that a regular strung necklace because it is more laborious and requires a lot more time. Same thing with enameling; redoing a piece with 10 different colors is going to be higher than redoing a piece with just 1 color.
If you’re not sure about something, you are welcome to send me a good photo and I will do my best to give you a good “ballpark” estimate from that.
Do you work on vintage fine jewelry?
Mostly, the answer is no. We can do some work on fine jewelry, depending on what it needs. If it’s simply a new clasp, cleaning, semi-precious stones such as garnets and turquoise, etc, we can do that. However, we don’t do gemstone replacement, replacement prongs, or laser welding. We are also unable to do ring sizing at this time. But, if you have a question about a piece, please contact us.
Mostly, the answer is no. We can do some work on fine jewelry, depending on what it needs. If it’s simply a new clasp, cleaning, semi-precious stones such as garnets and turquoise, etc, we can do that. However, we don’t do gemstone replacement, replacement prongs, or laser welding. We are also unable to do ring sizing at this time. But, if you have a question about a piece, please contact us.
Do you only fix vintage jewelry, or do you work on new and contemporary pieces, too?
Absolutely! We do work on all types of jewelry, including new pieces, but we specialize in the proper methods and techniques needed to work on older costume jewelry.
Absolutely! We do work on all types of jewelry, including new pieces, but we specialize in the proper methods and techniques needed to work on older costume jewelry.
What do I do to get started with requesting a repair?
Simply fill out the repair form found in the Repairs & Policy section. Be sure to include a copy of the repair form with your repairs. Filling out the form helps me to understand what you are wanting to see with the final results of the repair. Mail it to the address on the instruction sheet, which is a secured PO Box. Once I receive it, I will email you to notify you of its arrival. Once I’ve had a chance to prepare your estimate, I email that to you and when I receive your approval on costs, I begin work. I email you again once the work is complete. It’s that easy
Simply fill out the repair form found in the Repairs & Policy section. Be sure to include a copy of the repair form with your repairs. Filling out the form helps me to understand what you are wanting to see with the final results of the repair. Mail it to the address on the instruction sheet, which is a secured PO Box. Once I receive it, I will email you to notify you of its arrival. Once I’ve had a chance to prepare your estimate, I email that to you and when I receive your approval on costs, I begin work. I email you again once the work is complete. It’s that easy
What forms of payment do you accept?
I prefer Paypal. I send a Paypal invoice to you at work’s completion. I can accept Visa and Mastercard through Paypal and you don’t need a Paypal account for this. I can also accept personal checks, but will wait for it to clear before I return the jewelry
I prefer Paypal. I send a Paypal invoice to you at work’s completion. I can accept Visa and Mastercard through Paypal and you don’t need a Paypal account for this. I can also accept personal checks, but will wait for it to clear before I return the jewelry
How do you ship my repaired piece(s) back to me?
Right now, we’re using USPS because it’s the most cost-effective service for our clients. If you wish to use a different carrier, please notify us and we’ll be happy to do that. In order to keep our processes in place, we do NOT accept any shipping labels other than what we print. We will add as much insurance to the package as you wish to have. We highly recommend getting insurance coverage and, especially in the case of high-end pieces or those with sentimental value, signature confirmation is also a good idea.
We also take great care in our packaging to ensure your repaired pieces make it to you in perfect condition. Because we insist on proper packaging and protection of your pieces, we utilize our boxes and packaging material exclusively. We will not return the pieces in the same packaging we received it in.
If you receive a damaged package from us, you will need to file a claim with the postal company. We are not responsible for the package after we turn it over to the post office.
Right now, we’re using USPS because it’s the most cost-effective service for our clients. If you wish to use a different carrier, please notify us and we’ll be happy to do that. In order to keep our processes in place, we do NOT accept any shipping labels other than what we print. We will add as much insurance to the package as you wish to have. We highly recommend getting insurance coverage and, especially in the case of high-end pieces or those with sentimental value, signature confirmation is also a good idea.
We also take great care in our packaging to ensure your repaired pieces make it to you in perfect condition. Because we insist on proper packaging and protection of your pieces, we utilize our boxes and packaging material exclusively. We will not return the pieces in the same packaging we received it in.
If you receive a damaged package from us, you will need to file a claim with the postal company. We are not responsible for the package after we turn it over to the post office.
What about plating?
No, we do not do re-plating. Costume jewelry used different types of finishes throughout the years. Though we've tried to replicate the finishes, the results were never up to our standards, and the cost always exceeded the value of the piece. Therefore, we are not performing any plating.
No, we do not do re-plating. Costume jewelry used different types of finishes throughout the years. Though we've tried to replicate the finishes, the results were never up to our standards, and the cost always exceeded the value of the piece. Therefore, we are not performing any plating.
Do you convert clip on earrings to pierced?
No, we do not. We've found that in trying to do this conversion, the results are rarely good and certainly do not meet our expectations. It ends up doing more harm than good to the earrings.
No, we do not. We've found that in trying to do this conversion, the results are rarely good and certainly do not meet our expectations. It ends up doing more harm than good to the earrings.
A note about welding and soldering…
Costume jewelry was/is often made of metal alloys (combination of different metals). Since we don't know the content of the metal on any given piece, unless marked 925, we are guessing as to how it will react to welding/soldering. Some pieces react very well and others not so much. We do our best to examine the piece to get an understanding of what we MIGHT be faced with, but it is no guarantee. Because of this situation, we make NO guarantees on how long the weld might hold or if it will not cause additional damage to the piece. It is our policy that if we receive your approval to proceed and it does not hold or causes further damage to the piece, we will NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE for the damage and you will still be charged for the time to attempt the repair.
Costume jewelry was/is often made of metal alloys (combination of different metals). Since we don't know the content of the metal on any given piece, unless marked 925, we are guessing as to how it will react to welding/soldering. Some pieces react very well and others not so much. We do our best to examine the piece to get an understanding of what we MIGHT be faced with, but it is no guarantee. Because of this situation, we make NO guarantees on how long the weld might hold or if it will not cause additional damage to the piece. It is our policy that if we receive your approval to proceed and it does not hold or causes further damage to the piece, we will NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE for the damage and you will still be charged for the time to attempt the repair.
If you are unsure if your piece can be repaired or have questions in general, just click on link below and you can send us and email.
Click below to visit our costume jewelry sales shoppe that has all sorts of great pieces!
“I receive the necklace and it's more beautiful than the day I purchased it! Thank you so much for your wonderful work. I am so pleased. I am sure I will be in need of your services in the future. “
“I received the beautifully packaged parcel yesterday. I'm over the moon! I can't believe what an incredible job you did with each and every piece! They are even more perfect then I had expected. Thank you for your wonderful work. I am so pleased. Wow you are amazing. . .”
“You have absolutely no idea the difference in what you do, to keep your jewelry repairs safe and sound in comparison to some! I am so happy - not one single piece had any damage to it - it was all in perfect order when it arrived, and I am very pleased with the way every single piece turned out! I have more pieces to send to you. Thank you so very much for doing such a wonderful...no fabulous....job in making my repairs looks so great!”
“...I love how you take such good care of your customers. Six weeks ago, when I thought it was going to take you a bit longer I sent 10 items to someone else to take care of. I just got them back on Monday - of the pieces, over half the stones were loose in the plastic. The customer service was very poor. So, when I opened your package, I just had to smile - I will not be sending my jewelry to anyone other than you! “
“Oh, my ,gosh. The box of jewelry arrived yesterday. There is no doubt that you can work miracles. Are these my jewels?... I have it all thanks to you and your miracles. I appreciate the work you do and how quickly you can get some of this stuff done. I can tell you love the jewelry you work on.”
“OMG too BEAUTIFUL FOR WORDS.....I cannot believe how beautiful you made my bracelet. It is gorgeous. I was always hesitant to buy a piece of jewelry that had a stone or two missing from it. I'm not now. You are my GOTO jewelry repair girl and all my friends will hear about it. WOW.... Excellent service. Now I won't be afraid to bid on that piece that I love or go to an estate sale and wish I could get something fixed.”