This treasured gemstone bracelet had become fragile after generations of wear. Our workshop carefully restored the settings, hinges and structure so the piece could be safely worn again while preserving its original character.
Restoring a 120-Year-Old Gemstone Bracelet
The Problem & Assessment
This antique gemstone bracelet had become increasingly fragile through years of wear. The hinges were worn, several settings were no longer secure, and structural components required rebuilding before the piece could be safely worn again.
Featuring a collection of coloured gemstones, the bracelet held significant sentimental and historical value. A full restoration was recommended so each gemstone, setting and hinge could be assessed individually before repair.
The Restoration Process
Rather than carrying out isolated repairs, the bracelet was carefully dismantled so each gemstone, setting and hinge could be assessed individually.
The gemstones were removed and documented before worn components were repaired or rebuilt. The settings were restored, hinges refurbished or replaced, and each stone was re-clawed and secured by hand. Once reassembled, the bracelet was extended for a more comfortable fit before receiving a final clean and polish.
Before & After Restoration
The bracelet was carefully restored so each gemstone could be secured, worn components rebuilt and the original character preserved. The result is not a redesign, but a careful return to wearable condition.
The Restored Piece
The restored bracelet retains the character and history of the original piece while returning it to wearable condition.
By rebuilding worn components, securing each gemstone and preserving the original design, the restoration allowed this treasured bracelet to continue being worn and enjoyed for years to come.
Metal: Yellow gold
Gemstones: Coloured gemstones
Work Undertaken: Full bracelet restoration, hinge repair, setting restoration, stone removal and resetting, bracelet extension, cleaning and polishing
Techniques: Restoration, hand fabrication, claw rebuilding and stone setting
Project Type: Antique heirloom restoration
Age: Approximately 120 years old
Project Details
Antique gemstone bracelet restoration
Gemstones removed, documented and reset
Worn hinges repaired or replaced
Settings restored and claws rebuilt
Bracelet extended for improved fit
Cleaned, polished and returned to wearable condition
At a Glance
Jewellery restoration is often as much about preservation as repair. By rebuilding worn components and securing each gemstone individually, this restoration returned a treasured bracelet to wearable condition while protecting its beauty, history and wearability.
Have an heirloom, antique or sentimental piece that needs careful assessment?
Restoration work is undertaken by appointment, with each piece assessed individually before work begins.